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Great Cypress Swamp: A Natural Treasure

Explore the serene beauty and rich biodiversity of the Great Cypress Swamp, a natural haven on the Delmarva Peninsula.

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The Great Cypress Swamp, straddling Delaware and Maryland, is a remarkable freshwater wetland and the largest contiguous forest on the Delmarva Peninsula. Once a vast expanse of 50,000-60,000 acres, it has been reduced by logging, agriculture, and fires, but restoration efforts are underway.

A brief summary to Great Cypress Swamp

Local tips

  • Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best opportunities to observe wildlife.
  • Bring binoculars for bird watching, as the swamp is home to a variety of bird species.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on trails that may be uneven or muddy.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If traveling by car from the Delaware Beaches area, head west on Route 26 until you reach the intersection with Route 113. Turn left onto Route 113 South, and after approximately 5 miles, turn right onto Cypress Swamp Road in Frankford. Follow Cypress Swamp Road for about 1 mile to reach the Great Cypress Swamp. Parking may be limited during peak times.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest bus service is provided by DART First State. From various points in the Delaware Beaches, take Route 204 bus towards Frankford. Stay on the bus until you reach the stop near Route 113 and Cypress Swamp Road. From there, it is about a 1-mile walk to the Great Cypress Swamp. Check the DART schedule in advance.

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Discover more about Great Cypress Swamp

The Great Cypress Swamp, also known as the Burnt Swamp, is a significant natural area located on the Delmarva Peninsula, stretching across southern Delaware and southeastern Maryland. It represents the northernmost range of bald cypress swamps in the United States. Historically, the swamp covered an impressive 50,000 to 60,000 acres, making it a dominant geological feature. Over centuries, the swamp faced degradation due to extensive timber harvesting, agricultural drainage, and destructive fires. A particularly devastating peat fire in the 1930s burned for eight months, earning it the local moniker "Burnt Swamp". Despite these challenges, the Great Cypress Swamp remains the largest contiguous forest on the Delmarva Peninsula and Delaware Wild Lands' largest land holding. Today, Delaware Wild Lands, a non-profit conservation organization, manages approximately 10,000 acres of the swamp, focusing on ecological restoration. These efforts include restoring the natural hydrology and replanting native species like bald cypress and Atlantic white cedar. The swamp is home to diverse flora and fauna, including 73 breeding bird species. Visitors can explore the swamp's unique landscape, characterized by bald cypress trees, wetlands, and diverse wildlife.

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