How do I access Staves Landing?

Staves Landing is a public carry-in in Delaware. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Staves Landing?

Staves Landing supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Staves Landing?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Staves Landing?

The best time to paddle at Staves Landing is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Staves Landing?

Water conditions at Staves Landing include mild current, sheltered.

Is Staves Landing good for beginners?

Yes, Staves Landing is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Kayakers on a calm forest river surrounded by pine trees

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

CreekMild CurrentSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Staves Landing

Odessa, DE · Carry-In · Public

Staves Landing is a public carry-in on Blackbird Creek near Odessa, Delaware. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Creek

Launch Type

Carry-In

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Staves Landing offers creek paddling on Blackbird Creek in Delaware. Located near Odessa.

Creek paddlers in Delaware can put in at Staves Landing to explore Blackbird Creek and its shaded, winding channels.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water.

You can expect mild current and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Located about 5 min from Odessa, Staves Landing is a convenient option for Odessa-area paddlers.

Paddling Tips

•Expect tight turns and occasional strainers (downed trees across the water).
•A shorter kayak or canoe (under 12 feet) handles creek turns more easily.
•Creek levels can rise quickly after rain — avoid paddling during or after storms.
•Bring bug spray — shaded creeks can have active mosquitoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Staves Landing?: Staves Landing is a public carry-in in Delaware. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Staves Landing?: Staves Landing supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Staves Landing?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Staves Landing?: The best time to paddle at Staves Landing is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Staves Landing?: Water conditions at Staves Landing include mild current, sheltered.
Is Staves Landing good for beginners?: Yes, Staves Landing is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 39.4311, -75.6012