TOURS 32

Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM; headquarters closed on weekends and federal holidays; the hiking and biking trails remain open. Location: 3100 Desert Road For more info: fws.gov/refuge/great_dismal_swamp

The Great Dismal Swamp is anything but dismal. Despite its foreboding moniker, the Great Dismal Swamp is one of few remaining American wildernesses and the largest intact remnant of a vast habitat that once covered more than one million acres of southeastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina. This nature preserve encompasses over 111,000 acres where visitors enjoy wildlife observation, history, mystery and lore.

Because of its geographic location and climate, the Great Dismal is known for its unique blending of northern and southern species, and is a haven for black bear, bobcats, rare plants, rattlesnakes, and river otters. Less fearsome creatures include 200 species of birds, frogs, lizards, salamanders, toads, and yellow-bellied and spotted turtles.

Lake Drummond, a 3,108-acre lake located near the center of the swamp, is the largest of only two naturally occurring lakes in Virginia. It stands only 18 feet above sea level, and though it is three miles wide, it is only five to six feet deep, allowing great cypresses to rise from its still, shallow waters. Tannic acid from forest vegetation stains the water.

Despite its impressive size and age, the Great Dismal Swamp remains a mystery to most people; its foreboding forests protect its wildlife and ward off intruders. For those who venture in, the Dismal Swamp shelters a wealth of history and lore, flora and fauna. Visitors may participate in biking, fishing and boating, hiking, hunting, nature photography, and wildlife observation.

Great Dismal Swamp Guided Nature Walk

Dates: Check website Time: 10:00 - 11:30 AM Ages: 8+ Cost: $7 adults; $5 seniors (60+), military, and children (ages 3-12). Meet the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge in a new way—up close and personal! Enjoy a 90-minute biologist-led nature walk as you learn about the flora, fauna, wildlife and history that abound in the 112,000-acre wilderness. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate dress are recommended.

Great Dismal “Swamp Safari”

Dates: Check website Time: 10:00 AM - 1:30 PM Ages: 8+ Cost: $10 adults; $8 seniors (60+), military, and children (ages 8-12). Not recommended for children under 8. This four-hour tour, which fills up quickly, is led by a biologist specializing in the unique habitat of the Great Dismal. A small snack and beverage provided; sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended.