Peacedale Preserve
Peacedale is made up of many parcels acquired over many decades… an example of patient and persistent conservation work.
about Peacedale Preserve
Peacedale Preserve includes two streams that flow into Big Elk Creek, which in turn leads to the Chesapeake Bay. The property also contains vast hayfields, some of which are being restored to native meadows and others to forest. The preserve, comprised of several parcels of land acquired over many decades, is a wonderful example of just how long-term the work of land conservation can be.
background
In 1973, Natural Lands received a donation of land from the estate of Charles Foote, a southern Chester County farmer who, by all accounts, had his own ideas about things. Fortunately, one of those ideas was that his farm should remain open space forever. His farm remained in our care but, due to limited access and funding, it was an isolated parcel with no trails.
In 2009, Natural Lands purchased an adjoining 133-acres from a developer that had received approval for subdivision but—due to the economic downturn—decided to sell the land instead. Later that same year, and again in 2011, we acquired additional neighboring properties, bringing the preserve to its present size.
Address
Peacedale Road
Landenberg, PA 19350
directions
Visitor Hours
Daily: dawn to dusk visitor guidelines
Features
Hiking
Seasonal Hunting
what to expect
A 10-car, gravel parking lot is located off of Peacedale Road, one mile west of Rt. 896/New London Road.
Parking is free.
Accessible parking: Sorry, there are no accessible spots.
Trail surfaces: Trails are unpaved and range from grassy meadow trails to dirt woodland trails with some rocks and tree roots. The grade ranges from flat to rolling hills.
Areas with gentle or no slope: From the parking lot, after a small slope, you’ll reach a grass and concrete trail that is mostly flat and leads to a lookout.
Benches and rest areas: There are a few benches throughout the preserve with significant distance in between. This includes two benches on the Red Trail and one bench on the Purple Trail.
Motorized wheelchairs and other power-driven mobility devices are welcome for visitors with disabilities.
Service animals providing assistance for visitors with disabilities are welcome.
Learn more about accessibility at Natural Lands. accessibility
Sorry, there are no restrooms or drinking fountains.
Trails are through sunny meadows with a few through shady woodlands. Check out the AllTrails app or website to find trail elevation, lengths, and reviews. Peacedale on AllTrails
- Leashes required. Pets are permitted but must be leashed at all times to keep people, other pets, and wildlife safe. No exceptions. Violators may be asked to leave.
- Leave no trace. Please leave all plants, flowers, animals, rocks, and artifacts for all visitors to enjoy.
- Take your trash. Please pick up all trash, even biodegradable materials like food scraps.
- Stick to trails. Please stay on designated trails to protect fragile plants, prevent erosion or wildlife disturbance, and reduce the chance of tick-borne illnesses.
- No motorized vehicles or mountain bikes. Motorized wheelchairs and other power-driven mobility devices are welcome for visitors with disabilities.
- No hunting, trapping, or fishing.
- No drones or professional photography.
- No picnicking or alcohol.
- The large oak tree with bench beneath it (Turn right out of the parking lot and follow the Red Trail to the Gray Trail.)
photo gallery
Peacedale Preserve contains expanses of woodlands and hayfields which are being restored to native grass meadows.
