By: Alexander Huey, Marketing and Communications Specialist at Delaware State Parks

A recent study  by the U.S. Travel Association found that 54 percent of Americans don’t use all of their vacation time each year, leaving 659 million paid vacation days a year unused.

But whats the big deal? Outside of letting earned vacation days go to waste, studies have found that vacation is essential for strong bonds with family and friends, a productive workforce, and a fulfilled life. The more people vacation, the happier they are in both their personal and professional lives. The U.S. Travel Association thus created Project: Time Off, a project to bring to light the importance of using your vacation time. At Delaware State Parks, we are committed to helping you do just that, and invite you to join us in planning vacation on Tuesday January 29, 2019- National Plan for Vacation Day.

I’ll admit I am just as guilty about taking the time to plan for my vacation. The truth is we’ll always be busy, and that’s why this year I am committed to making my travel plans before my calendar starts to fill up.

Annual Summer Sandcastle Building Contest at Delaware Seashore State Park

Mark your calendar to plan for your vacation, and start the vacation planning discussion with your family and friends now. Whether it be for a full week, day trip, or weekend getaway, we invite you to join us and find a Delaware State Park near you. At Delaware State Parks, our park guests can discover a world of possibilities. Soak up the warm sun on a vacation to Cape Henlopen, Delaware Seashore, or Fenwick Island, and be sure to make a stop at Big Chill Beach Club or Hammerheads Dockside to enjoy dinner. Or make your travel or camping plans to visit one of our gorgeous pond parks. Paddle your way through the breathtaking bald cypress trees at Trap Pond State Park, soar through the trees with Go Ape! Treetop Adventure at Lums Pond State Park, or even make a splash at the Killens Pond Water Park. There is so much to see and enjoy on your trip to Delaware!

Go Ape! Treetop Adventure at Lums Pond State Park

With so much to see and do, one of my favorite ways to experience Delaware State Parks is by staying in one of our five family friendly campgrounds. From cabins and cottages to 3 point hookup RV sites, our range of amenities allows you to find the campsite that is perfect for you, and each of our campgrounds has a unique experience to offer.

But why wait until summer to start your vacation? To help get things started, this spring, we’re offering 50% savings on your weeknight camping, cabin, or yurt stay through May 15^th  that you can start using now! We want you to have s’more fun with us and invite you to use the code SMORES5019 at checkout to take advantage of this offer. Some restrictions may apply and you can learn more on DEStateParks.com

What are you waiting for? Reclaim your vacation time! Where are you excited to plan your visit to this year?