Delaware State Maps
These maps show Delaware State’s Counties, Cities, Federal Areas, Physiographic, and Ecoregion's.
The 3 Counties of Delaware and Their Name Origins
- New Castle County: Named for the Duke of York, who was also the Earl of New Castle.
- Kent County: Named after the English county of Kent.
- Sussex County: Named after the English county of Sussex.
Delaware State County Sizes Map
Smallest County in Delaware State
New Castle County: 486 sq miles
Largest County in Delaware State
Sussex County: 958 sq miles
Mean and Median Area of Counties in Delaware State
Mean Area: 957 sq miles
Median Area: 957 sq miles
Major Cities of Delaware State and Their Locations
In Delaware State, most major cities are located near rivers or major transport routes. Below are examples:
1. Wilmington
Wilmington, the largest city in Delaware, is located at the confluence of the Christina River and Brandywine Creek. Historically, it was an important industrial and shipping hub.
2. Dover
Dover, the capital of Delaware, is centrally located in Kent County. Its strategic location on a major route made it a significant administrative and military site.
3. Newark
Newark, located in New Castle County, is known for being home to the University of Delaware. It is also a key city in terms of industrial growth in the state.
Topographic Tour of Delaware
Delaware’s topography is mostly flat, as it lies within the Atlantic Coastal Plain. It has low hills in the north near the Piedmont region and coastal lowlands in the south.
1. Coastal Plain, Embayed
This region covers much of southern Delaware and features low, flat terrain along the Atlantic coastline. It is known for its wetlands, estuaries, and sandy soils.
2. Piedmont, Piedmont Upland
The northern tip of Delaware is part of the Piedmont Upland, where the terrain becomes slightly hillier, characterized by rolling hills and higher elevation compared to the coastal plains.
Notable Federal Lands: Some of the Largest and Most Fascinating Destinations in Delaware
Delaware’s federal lands include national parks, wildlife refuges, and other protected areas.
1. Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge
This refuge is a key migratory stopover for waterfowl along the Atlantic Flyway. Its wetlands are critical for wildlife conservation and birdwatching.
2. Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge
Another important site for bird migration, Prime Hook features marshes, swamps, and tidal wetlands that provide habitat for a variety of bird species.
Ecoregions of Delaware
Middle Atlantic Coastal Plain Section
This region covers much of southern Delaware and is characterized by sandy soils and a mix of forests and wetlands. It is important for agriculture and coastal habitats.
Northern Appalachian Piedmont Section
The northern part of Delaware belongs to the Piedmont, featuring rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests. This region supports a range of wildlife and has rich soils for farming.
Upper Atlantic Coastal Plain Section
This section lies along the central part of Delaware and includes a mix of wetlands, forests, and agricultural land. The flat terrain and fertile soils make it ideal for farming and residential development.
Physiographic Regions of Delaware State
1. Coastal Plain
This region covers the majority of Delaware, particularly in the southern and central parts of the state. The Coastal Plain consists of flat, low-lying areas extending along the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay. It features wetlands, estuaries, and sandy soils, characterized by relatively flat topography. This region is part of the larger Atlantic Coastal Plain, which spans the eastern United States.
2. Piedmont
The Piedmont region occupies the northern part of Delaware. It is marked by rolling hills and higher elevations compared to the Coastal Plain. The Piedmont Upland is a transition zone between the Coastal Plain and the Appalachian Mountains. This region features rockier terrain and more rugged landscapes, contrasting with the flatter southern part of the state.