Residents and visitors of North Carolina’s 100 counties are fortunate to have so many state parks and recreation areas to enjoy. In a previous article we told you about the newest state park in the system. But no state park begs in so many ways to be explored more than Dismal Swamp State Park.
Why? Because up until 10 years ago when this park opened, no one was permitted public access to this part of the Great Dismal Swamp located in North Carolina. And what's up with that name anyway? That name is imploring you to step foot on these lands to find out what all the hullabaloo is.
From the start, the area known as The Great Dismal encompassed more than a million acres. Over the centuries it got whittled down, logged, dug, and drained to a point where the waters had receded a great deal. Eventually, a canal was added connecting North Carolina to our neighbors in Virginia.
Much like the Everglades in southern Florida, the Great Dismal Swamp is a southern swamp and is akin to swamp-like activities, some of which have included logging.
Today we can see ever present evidence of the logging ventures here. Dismal Swamp State Park boasts nearly 17 miles old logging roads, now perfect for biking and easy hiking.
If you want to know what you may encounter in the swamp before you begin your adventure, then just stop by the Visitors Center. You'll find a variety of exhibits and informative information sure to enhance your trip.
One exhibit you won't find inside the visitors center is the display of moonshine stills. They sit, rusty and dry and seem anxious for some much needed attention (or shine).
If you want to explore the swamp by bike or by boat, you can rent either at the park. Each year the park is party to the annual Paddle for the Border event, held the first Saturday in May. Participants make their way from Dismal Swamp State Park in South Mills, NC and cross to Virginia paddling their way to the takeout point in Chesapeake, VA.
Dismal Swamp State Park is located at 2294 US 17 North, South Mills, NC27976. The park is open March – October from 8am – 6pm, and November – February from 8am – 5pm. The Visitors Center hours vary slightly from the park hours, and the trails close one-half hour before the park closes. Find out more info on their official website.
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