Bear, DE

Location

Bear DE, is situated in the northern part of Delaware, approximately 12 miles south of Wilmington and 10 miles west of Newark. It is located along the Route 40 corridor, which is a major thoroughfare connecting Wilmington to points west, including Elkton, Maryland.

The town is also conveniently located near several major highways, including I-95, which runs north-south along the East Coast of the United States. This makes it easy to travel to other parts of Delaware and surrounding states, such as Pennsylvania and New Jersey.


Economy

According to the United States Census Bureau, the population of Bear was 19,371 as of 2020. The town has experienced steady growth in recent years, with a 7.5% increase in population since the 2010 Census.

Bear is a diverse community, with a mix of different ethnicities and nationalities. According to the 2020 Census, the racial makeup of the town was approximately 54.5% White, 25.9% Black or African American, 5.2% Asian, and 13.5% of other races or multiple races. Hispanic or Latino of any race made up 23.8% of the population.


Climate

Bear experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The town receives an average of 45 inches of rainfall per year, with most precipitation occurring in the summer months. Snowfall is relatively low, with an average of around 20 inches per year.

During the summer months, temperatures in Bear can be quite hot, with average highs in the high 80s Fahrenheit (around 30 degrees Celsius) and occasional heat waves pushing temperatures into the 90s (around 35 degrees Celsius) or higher. Humidity can also be quite high, particularly in July and August.

BEAR WEATHER


Transportation

Bear is conveniently located near several major highways, including I-95, which runs north-south along the East Coast of the United States. This makes it easy to travel to other parts of Delaware and surrounding states, such as Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Route 40, which runs east-west through the town, is another major thoroughfare that provides access to Wilmington and points west.

For those who prefer public transportation, DART First State provides bus service throughout the town and surrounding areas. The buses run on several different routes, with stops at major destinations such as the University of Delaware and Christiana Mall. Fares are reasonable, and passes are available for frequent riders.


Attractions

Bear is home to several attractions including:

Lums Pond State Park

Lums Pond State Park - Bear DE
Image Credit: Google Maps

Lums Pond State Park is the largest state park in Delaware, covering over 1,790 acres. The park’s centerpiece is a 200-acre freshwater pond, which is popular for fishing, boating, and kayaking. 

The park offers over 12 miles of trails for hiking and biking, including a section of the popular Michael N. Castle Trail that runs along the C&D Canal. The campground at Lums Pond State Park features over 60 sites, including several that are equipped for RVs. It also offers several picnic areas and pavilions, as well as a nature center that provides educational programs and exhibits. In addition to its recreational opportunities, 

Lums Pond State Park is also an important habitat for a variety of wildlife species, including bald eagles, ospreys, and great blue herons.

Caravel Academy

caravel academy Bear DE
Image Credit: Google Maps

Caravel Academy is a private, co-educational school located in Bear, DE. The school was founded in 1972 and serves students from pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade. Caravel Academy is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and offers a rigorous academic program that prepares students for college and beyond. 

The school’s curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and hands-on learning, and students have the opportunity to participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including athletics, the arts, and community service. Caravel Academy has a strong tradition of academic excellence and has been recognized as a Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. 

It is committed to providing a supportive and nurturing environment for students, and has a dedicated faculty and staff who are passionate about helping students reach their full potential.

Bear Babe Ruth

bear babe ruth Bear DE
Image credit: Google Maps

Bear Babe Ruth is a youth baseball organization located in Bear, DE. The organization is a member of the national Babe Ruth League, which provides organized baseball leagues for children and young adults between the ages of 4 and 18. Bear Babe Ruth offers programs for both boys and girls, and the league is organized into several divisions based on age and skill level. 

They operate on a volunteer basis, with parents and community members serving as coaches, umpires, and other volunteers. In addition to regular league play, Bear Babe Ruth also hosts several tournaments throughout the year, bringing teams from around the region to compete in Bear. The organization has been in operation for many years and has a strong tradition of providing quality youth baseball programs to the Bear community.

New Castle County Wrangle Hill Estate Park

new castle county wrangle hills estate park Bear DE
Image credits: Google Maps

The New Castle County Wrangle Hill Estate Park is a 178-acre park located in Bear, DE. The park features a variety of amenities, including a playground, picnic areas, and several athletic fields. It is home to the Delcastle Golf Course, which is a popular destination for golfers in the area. 

The park also has a historic mansion, the John H. Porter House, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is available to rent for special events and weddings. In addition to its recreational offerings, the park also has several hiking trails that wind through wooded areas and offer scenic views of the surrounding landscape. It is open to the public and is a popular destination for outdoor activities and events throughout the year.


Rutledge Park - Softball Field

rutledge park softball field Bear DE
Image credits: Google Maps

Rutledge Park is a 14-acre community park located in Bear, DE. The park features a variety of amenities, including a playground, basketball court, and a softball field. The softball field at Rutledge Park is a popular destination for both youth and adult softball leagues in the Bear area. The field is well-maintained and features dugouts, bleachers, and batting cages. 

The park also has a pavilion available for rent, making it a popular spot for outdoor gatherings and events. In addition to its sports offerings, Rutledge Park also has a nature trail that winds through a wooded area and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It is open to the public and is easily accessible from the surrounding areas.