While Great Dismal Swamp does not exactly sound like an attractive place to visit, nature lovers, birders and wildlife enthusiasts flock here to enjoy hiking, biking and wildlife watching.

The refuge protects the last remaining pocket of an outstanding natural habitat which once covered large tracts of Virginia and Carolina and can be reached in less than two hours from Richmond.

You can spend your day in the refuge exploring along a network of hiking trails and boardwalks which lead you deep into the refuge and offer excellent birding and photographic opportunities.

Other activities include boating and fishing on Lake Drummond, seasonal hunting (October and November) and guided interpretive nature walks.

Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, Suffolk, VA 23434, Phone: 757-986-3705

Plan Your Trip

Get Ready to Go!

Need some more help?


Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.