While it has a terrible name, Dismal Swamp State Park is actually one of the most beautiful places in the country. Located in South Mills, North Carolina, this hidden gem has a long history with Native American tribes and early European settlers. Today, it’s the perfect place for a daylong excursion into the wilderness. If you’re looking to reconnect with nature, check out the following fun attractions Dismal Swamp State Park has to offer.
Kayaking and Canoeing
Kayaking and canoeing are among the most popular activities in Dismal Swamp State Park. The Dismal Swamp Canal flows steadily along the outskirts of the park, and its amber-colored waters provide a stark contrast to the brilliant green of the surrounding trees and plants. Just head to the boat ramp near the parking lot to enter the water safely. If you don’t have your own boat, don’t fret, as the park offers kayak and canoe rentals for $7 an hour.
Hiking
If you like hiking, you’re in luck, as this park has 16.7 miles of trails for you to explore. Once logging roads, these trails have now been transformed into people-friendly passages through the swamp. While most are multipurpose, two are dedicated solely to pedestrians — the Supple-jack Trail and the Swamp Boardwalk. Both are half-mile treks with easy terrain.
The Supple-jack Trail has a natural surface. As you walk along this path, you’ll find yourself surrounded by dense vegetation, the remains of illegal liquor stills, and various fauna. The Swamp Boardwalk, on the other hand, takes you directly over the swamp and provides interpretive panels so you can learn more about the area during your walk.
Fishing
Thanks to the Dismal Swamp Canal, there’s plenty of fresh water for fishing. While you’re allowed to fish most spots on the Canal, one major exception is the Welcome Center and rest area. Just keep in mind that you need a North Carolina fishing license before you cast any lines. You also need to follow all the rules set by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and Marine Fisheries.
Biking
If you’re seeking a challenging day of mountain biking, you’re in luck, as all but two of the park’s trails are also open to bikes. For longer rides, try Corapeake Road or Kim Saunders Road, which are 4.8 and 5.4 miles one way, respectively. Each has a natural surface sprinkled with gravel for an off-road feel with slightly more control. Don’t have a bike? That’s not an issue, as the park rents them out to adults and children on an hourly basis. Bikes cost $7 an hour, making riding an affordable way to spend a couple of hours outdoors.
Dismal Swamp State Park certainly has a lot to offer its visitors. If you’re craving a respite from the stresses of everyday life, you could greatly benefit from the peace and tranquility offered by this natural gem. Pack a picnic lunch, and enjoy some time ensconced in the embrace of nature’s wonders.
Image via norfolkdistrict | Licensed under CC BY 2.0
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