State Parks and National Parks

Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge contains more than 111,200 acres of contiguous forested wetlands.

A wide variety of wildlife can be seen by hikers and bikers along more than 80 miles of trails.

Lake Drummond, a 3,100-acre natural lake, is situated in the center of the swamp. The lake is accessible year-round from the east via the Feeder Ditch, with a 1,000-pound vessel limitation at the spillway boat lift.

A special use permit will allow seasonal boat access from the west via the Railroad Ditch entrance.

Resident species include white-tailed deer, river otter, bats, mink, bobcats, snakes, turtles, and black bear. More than 200 species of birds have been identified on the refuge.

Photo credits in order: Photo by T. Cherry, courtesy of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Great Dismal Swamp NWR. Courtesy of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Great Dismal Swamp NWR. Courtesy of Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge.