Teeming With Adventure, The Great Dismal Swamp In Virginia Was Once Over 1 Million Acres
By Beth|Published May 12, 2023
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Beth
Author
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
Located on the coastal plain of southeastern Virginia awaits a true national treasure: the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. This marshy region is a vital habitat for countless plant and animal species, and its history is a fascinating one. The refuge is vast, yet few people realize it was once much grander; in fact, the swamp once covered over one million acres! Today, the Great Dismal Swamp offers a treasure trove of adventures, important stories to tell, and endless natural wonders.
For a healthy dose of natural beauty, stunning wildlife, and fascinating history, head to the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge in Virginia.
Once over 2,000 square miles shared between both Virginia and North Carolina, the swamp is drastically smaller today, due in part because of development and draining. Fortunately, it's now protected and managed by the U.S. Forest & Wildlife Service.
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For those interested in exploring the refuge by foot, there are several trails to explore, including the Washington Ditch Boardwalk and the Cypress Marsh Boardwalk Trail.
As you explore the landscape, you won't help but feel immersed in the denseness of the swamp. Archeologists have confirmed that as early as the 1600s, there were communities that hid within these marshes, hoping to escape colonists and slave-owners.
Visit the Underground Railroad Pavilion, a short walk that will lead you to an interpretive panel, and you can learn more about the swamp's critical role in the Underground Railroad.
Though the circumstances of hiding were heartbreaking, this chapter in history demonstrates the resilience and determination of those who sought freedom.
You'll likely encounter at least some form of wildlife here, whether it's a buzzing insect, otter, or deer.
In the heart of summer, the swamp is brimming with mosquitos. You may also encounter poisonous moccasins and rattlesnakes. At one time, there were also black bears and panthers.
So whether you're intrigued by the history, the natural landscape, or the cultural significance, you'll agree that the Great Dismal Swamp is a place like nowhere else in the country.
Have you ever visited the Great Dismal Swamp in Virginia? What was your experience there like? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below. We would love to hear from you! For more information about this natural wonder, be sure to check out the official U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service website.
Learn more about the history of the Great Dismal Swamp when you watch the brief YouTube video below:
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