Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is in southeastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina; headquarters is off SR 32 in Suffolk, Va., at 3100 Desert Rd. The refuge preserves more than 112,000 acres of forested wetlands surrounding Lake Drummond. Inhabitants include black bears, white-tailed deer, bobcats, otters and more than 200 recorded species of birds. A birding fest is held in late April.

Visitors to the refuge can hike or bicycle on several miles of unpaved trails. Interpretive boardwalks along the Washington and West ditches traverse a variety of swamp habitats. Boating and fishing are permitted on Lake Drummond. An auto tour route also is available; pick up a self-serve permit at the gate next to the park headquarters.

Recreational activities are permitted. Picnicking is permitted.