Delaware coastal roads and scenic inland parks offer some of the most rewarding summer travel routes on the East Coast. Preparing for these seasonal journeys begins with selecting a vehicle engineered to handle both highway cruising and unpredictable terrain. At Winner Subaru, we provide local drivers with a versatile selection of vehicles designed to make every excursion seamless, secure, and comfortable.

Our current new Subaru lineup features advanced engineering designed to keep your family safe during long summer drives. Models like the new Subaru Outback and the new Subaru Forester come equipped with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, providing continuous traction during unexpected summer rainstorms. For larger families, the three-row new Subaru Ascent offers expansive passenger space and highly configurable cargo areas, while the compact new Subaru Crosstrek remains a favorite for efficient weekend getaways. If you are looking for a spirited drive along the coast, the turbocharged new Subaru WRX delivers precise handling and standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology across all trims. Commuters seeking daily efficiency can explore the new Subaru Impreza or the rear-wheel-drive new Subaru BRZ, which bring distinct performance characteristics to our local roads.

We also offer progressive options for those looking to minimize their carbon footprint. You can explore our EV and hybrid models, including the all-electric new Subaru Solterra or upcoming additions like the new Subaru Uncharted. To help you understand the transition to electric power, we have compiled an educational electric vehicle guide detailing home charging setups and public infrastructure. Our team can also walk you through our available hybrid options and show you how we incorporate sustainability into our business practices through our eco-friendly commitment. Beyond selling cars, we remain deeply connected to our local community, proudly supporting initiatives such as the Eagles Autism Challenge to give back to the families we serve.

To find the perfect model for your upcoming travels, you can read more on our dealership blog or browse our latest new vehicle specials. Our staff is always available to walk you through active manufacturer incentives and help you compare different body styles.

Table of Contents

• Conquering State Park Trails with the 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness
• How to Install an Official Subaru Roof Rack on a 2026 Outback
• Navigating Beach Driving Permits and Parking Fees at Delaware State Parks
• Summer Day Trips and Waterpark Fun at Killens Pond State Park
• Camping and Kayaking Among the Bald Cypress Trees at Trap Pond State Park
• Common Questions About Road Tripping in a Delaware State Park
• Prepare Your Subaru for Summer Adventure

Conquering State Park Trails with the 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness

The 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness is specifically engineered for drivers who want to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations without sacrificing highway comfort. Under the hood, this rugged trim features a 2.4-liter turbocharged direct-injection engine that produces 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. This power is managed by a high-torque Lineartronic CVT and sent to all four wheels via a standard All-Wheel Drive system, ensuring the vehicle can climb steep, unpaved inclines or pull heavy loads with ease.

Trail capability is further enhanced by specialized hardware designed for rugged environments. The vehicle features a raised suspension that provides nine and a half inches of ground clearance, allowing it to clear obstacles that would stop standard crossovers. A standard dual-function X-MODE system includes dedicated settings for Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud, which recalibrates the throttle response, transmission gearing, and traction control to maintain momentum in slick or loose conditions. For those planning to haul gear, the vehicle is rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds, making it highly capable of pulling small utility trailers or lightweight campers.

The interior is equally prepared for outdoor adventures, offering up to 81 cubic feet of maximum cargo space with the rear seats folded flat, and 35 cubic feet of space behind the second row. StarTex water-repellent upholstery protects the cabin from wet gear, muddy boots, and spilled coolers. On the highway, the vehicle remains highly efficient, delivering up to 27 mpg on the highway and 21 mpg in the city, allowing you to travel further between fuel stops.

Engine & Performance

Powertrain specs by trim

How to Install an Official Subaru Roof Rack on a 2026 Outback

Adding a roof rack to your vehicle is one of the most effective ways to expand its carrying capacity for summer gear. The 2026 Outback features integrated roof rails with crossbars that can be easily deployed when needed and tucked away to improve aerodynamics when not in use. Using official factory components ensures a precise fit and maintains the structural integrity of your vehicle's roof.

To install the crossbars, start by locating the locking covers on the roof rails. Use the key provided with your accessory kit to unlock and remove these protective covers, exposing the integrated mounting points. Swing the integrated crossbars across the roof of the vehicle, aligning them with the receiver brackets on the opposite side. Once the crossbars are in place, tighten the mounting bolts securely using a torque wrench to the exact specifications outlined in your installation manual. Reattach the locking covers and ensure they are fully secured before loading any cargo.

When walking families through a vehicle demonstration on our showroom floor, our staff usually shows how easily the integrated crossbars swing across the roof and lock into place before we even talk about cargo volume. This design supports a dynamic load capacity of 220 pounds and a static load capacity of 700 pounds. The high static capacity is particularly beneficial for outdoor enthusiasts, as it allows the vehicle to safely support a heavy rooftop tent and its occupants when parked at a campsite.

Navigating Beach Driving Permits and Parking Fees at Delaware State Parks

Driving onto the sand is a popular way to enjoy the coastline, but it requires the right equipment and proper authorization. To legally drive a vehicle onto designated state park beaches, you must obtain a valid Delaware Surf Fishing Vehicle Permit. These permits are issued by the state and must be prominently displayed on your vehicle's front bumper or windshield.

Before heading onto the beach, Delaware state parks require that your vehicle be equipped with specific safety gear. You must carry a low-pressure tire gauge, a shovel, a jack capable of supporting your vehicle on sand, a sturdy tow strap, and a support board for the jack. Lowering your tire pressure to between 15 and 20 pounds increases the tire's footprint, preventing the vehicle from digging into the loose sand. Once you return to paved roads, you must immediately inflate your tires back to their recommended street pressures.

Standard parking inside most state parks is included with your daily vehicle entrance fee, meaning you will not pay separate parking charges at standard trailhead or picnic area lots. Daily entrance fees are typically collected at the park gates from March through November, with discounted rates available for vehicles registered in the state.

Summer Day Trips and Waterpark Fun at Killens Pond State Park

Killens Pond State Park offers a peaceful freshwater alternative to the crowded coastal beaches. The park is centered around a 66-acre pond that supports kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, surrounded by shaded hiking trails that wind through mature hardwood forests. It is an ideal destination for a family day trip, offering a mix of active recreation and quiet picnic areas.

The main attraction for families during the summer months is the newly upgraded waterpark. This facility features a massive zero-entry pool, interactive spray features, water slides, and a dedicated pool area for younger children. The waterpark operates in daily sessions, allowing visitors to cool off in a clean, supervised environment. After spending a few hours at the pool, families can rent a pedal boat or kayak at the park's boat dock to explore the calm waters of the pond.

For families living in Dover, where the flat terrain near the St. Jones River waterfront defines the local landscape, a quick drive south offers an incredible escape at Killens Pond State Park. The short commute makes it easy to pack up the family for a morning swim and return home by afternoon. The ample cargo space in our crossover lineup ensures you can bring along swim gear, changes of clothes, and a fully stocked cooler without crowding your passengers.

Camping and Kayaking Among the Bald Cypress Trees at Trap Pond State Park

Trap Pond State Park is home to one of the northernmost natural stands of bald cypress trees in North America. These ancient trees grow directly out of the shallow water, creating an otherworldly canopy that attracts kayakers, canoeists, and nature photographers from across the region. Paddling along the marked water trails through the swamp is a unique experience that feels entirely removed from the surrounding agricultural fields.

The park's campground features 129 campsites equipped with water and electricity, spread across shaded, wooded loops. Loop D is specifically designed with pull-through sites that run parallel to the access roads, making it much easier to park larger trailers or campers. For those who prefer a more traditional experience, Loop E offers walk-in tent sites that provide excellent privacy and a deeper connection to the natural surroundings. The campground also features clean bathhouses, a well-stocked camp store, and free bicycle rentals for exploring the flat, stone-dust trails that encircle the pond.

Preparing your vehicle for a weekend camping trip means ensuring you have the traction and cargo capacity to haul your gear safely. If you are shopping for a reliable vehicle on a budget, you can check our certified pre-owned program to learn about the rigorous inspection standards and warranty protections that come with our certified vehicles.

Common Questions About Road Tripping in a Delaware State Park

Before you load up your gear and set out, it helps to review a few logistics. You can learn about our team and our commitment to helping local drivers prepare for their journeys. Whether you are trading in a used Ford Expedition Sport or looking to upgrade from a used Dodge Hornet, our staff is always here to answer your questions. Here are some of the most common inquiries we receive about exploring state parks in a Subaru:

Q: Do I have to pay for parking separately at Delaware state parks when driving my Subaru?

No, standard parking is included with your daily vehicle entrance fee. You will not pay separate fees to park at trailheads or picnic areas.

Q: What is the ground clearance difference between a standard Forester and the Wilderness trim?

The standard Forester features 8.7 inches of ground clearance, while the Forester Wilderness increases that height to 9.2 inches to help clear larger rocks and obstacles on the trail.

Q: Can I mount a rooftop tent on a Subaru Outback Wilderness?

Yes, the heavy-duty roof rails on the Outback Wilderness are rated for a dynamic load capacity of 220 pounds and a static load capacity of 700 pounds, which safely supports most rooftop tent setups.

Q: How does the dual-function X-MODE system handle deep sand?

The dual-function X-MODE system includes a dedicated Deep Snow/Mud setting that allows for controlled wheelspin, which helps maintain forward momentum when driving through deep, loose sand on permitted beaches.

Q: Is there an annual pass available for Delaware state parks?

Yes, Delaware offers an annual park pass that provides unlimited entry to all state parks from March through November. For residents of Camden who frequently commute along Route 13 to explore regional state parks, this pass is highly recommended for frequent weekend trips.

Prepare Your Subaru for Summer Adventure

Ensuring your vehicle is in peak mechanical condition is the most important step in planning a successful summer road trip. Our factory-trained technicians are here to perform comprehensive multi-point inspections, fluid top-offs, tire rotations, and brake services to ensure your vehicle is ready for the road. If you need additional space for your luggage, we can also help you select and install factory-certified roof racks, cargo boxes, or trailer hitches.

If you are ready to upgrade your ride before your next trip, our finance department can help you explore flexible purchasing options. You can get pre-approved for financing online to save time at the dealership, or visit our finance center to speak with our specialists. We also offer specialized savings opportunities, including our college graduate program, and we speak Spanish to better serve all members of our community.

Every new vehicle we sell comes backed by comprehensive warranty protection, and should you ever encounter an issue on the road, you can rely on manufacturer-backed support by calling Subaru Roadside Assistance: 1-800-261-2155 for immediate towing, flat tire changes, or emergency fuel delivery to an authorized service center.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy and range by trim