Is the Great Dismal Swamp worth visiting?

The Great Dismal Swamp is a fantastic day trip (or overnighter) for those traveling solo, as a pair, or exploring Virginia as a family. It is located close to the beaches in Virginia and North Carolina and I think planning an extra day on your trip to see it is totally worthwhile.

Is Dismal Swamp State Park closed?

*The Dismal Swamp State Park is temporarily closed due to construction. Please visit their website or contact 252-771-6593 for the most updated information.

What lives in the Great Dismal Swamp?

Wildlife of the Great Dismal Swamp Other creatures found in the Great Dismal Swamp include black bears, river otters, white-tailed deer, hogs, red foxes, bobcats, bats, and squirrels; just make sure to watch out for the Great Dismal Swamp alligators!

Can you hunt in the Great Dismal Swamp?

Hunting. Hunting on the Dismal Swamp tract is with archery tackle only. Firearms are not permitted here but are allowed on the 3,800 acre main tract of Cavalier WMA, which is located approximately 6 miles to the southeast. Long bows, recurve bows, compound bows, and crossbows are all permitted.

Is Great Dismal Swamp Open?

The Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center is OPEN, with minor changes to daily operations to ensure the safety & wellness of visitors and staff. DOT Restrooms remain open to visitors 24/7.

Are there bears in the Great Dismal Swamp?

The Great Dismal Swamp is known to have one of the largest black bear populations on the East Coast! North Carolina coastal bears gorge heavily in agricultural fields on cornstalks, wheat, and peanuts throughout the summer and early fall.

Where is the Great Dismal Swamp in Virginia?

I didn’t even personally visit the wildlife refuge and state park until I returned to Virginia as an adult and decided to head there on a whim since I had a reliable rental car. The Great Dismal Swamp is located on Virginia’s southeastern border with North Carolina, between the cities of Norfolk, Virginia and Elizabeth City, North Carolina.

How many miles of trails are in the Dismal Swamp?

Dismal Swamp State Park allows a unique wilderness experience in a landscape that has been witness to American Indian hunting parties, exploration by George Washington and the story of the Underground Railroad. The park features 20 miles of trails, beyond a 2,000-foot boardwalk that puts visitors in the midst of the Great Dismal Swamp.

What can you do at Dismal Swamp National Park?

Mountain biking on the trails and kayaking the adjacent Dismal Swamp Canal are both encouraged. Visitors may bring their own equipment or rent at the park. Regular interpretive programs about the wetlands ecology and history of the famed swamp complement museum-quality exhibits in the visitor center.