Explore the Untamed Beauty of Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Discover the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, a vast natural oasis teeming with wildlife and rich in history, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is a lush natural escape that offers tourists an opportunity to immerse themselves in breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. Spanning over 112,000 acres, this expansive refuge is home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With miles of trails, waterways, and observation platforms, visitors can engage in birdwatching, hiking, and canoeing while enjoying the tranquility of this unique ecosystem. Whether you're spotting black bears or simply soaking in the serene surroundings, the Great Dismal Swamp promises an unforgettable adventure.
A brief summary to Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
- 3100 Desert Rd, Suffolk, Virginia, 23434, US
- +1757-986-3705
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best chances to see wildlife.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and spotting wildlife from observation platforms.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and be prepared for varying trail conditions.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots along the trails.
Getting There
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Bicycle
Start in central Chesapeake. Head west on Cedar Road until you reach the intersection with Great Bridge Blvd. Turn left onto Great Bridge Blvd and continue until you reach the intersection with Battlefield Blvd. Turn right onto Battlefield Blvd and head north. Follow Battlefield Blvd to the intersection with US-17 N. Take the ramp to merge onto US-17 N. Continue on US-17 N for approximately 8 miles. Take the exit toward I-664 N. Merge onto I-664 N and follow for about 2 miles. Take exit 13 to merge onto US-58 W toward Suffolk. Continue on US-58 W until you reach the exit for Desert Road. Turn right onto Desert Road, and follow it to the entrance of Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. The total distance is approximately 17 miles, so plan for a leisurely ride.
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Public Transport
From central Chesapeake, take the Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) bus route 960 towards Norfolk. Get off at the stop at the intersection of US-17 and Great Bridge Blvd. There, transfer to bus route 20 going towards Suffolk. Stay on the bus until you reach the stop near US-58 and Desert Road. From there, it is about a 1-mile walk to the entrance of Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. Make sure to check the HRT schedule for the latest bus times and routes.
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Walking
If you are close to the refuge and prefer to walk, head towards Desert Road. Depending on your starting point, use local streets to navigate towards Desert Road. Follow Desert Road until you see the entrance to Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. Ensure you have a map or GPS as you navigate through residential areas to take the safest and most direct route.
Discover more about Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tidewater Vault & Monument
15.1 km
Discover Tidewater Vault & Monument in Suffolk, Virginia—a stunning showcase of memorial artistry honoring life's stories and legacies.
Suffolk Nansemond Historical Society/Phillips-Dawson House Museum
15.9 km
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The Truitt House
15.9 km
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The Pinner House
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Experience Southern charm at The Pinner House, a cozy bed and breakfast in Suffolk, VA, perfect for relaxation and special events.
Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts
16.4 km
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The First Lady of Suffolk
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Suffolk Monument Works
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The BBQ Shack
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Amber Lantern Restaurant
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Tidewater Green. C & D Recycler
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Virginia's 5th Largest Live Oak Tree
22.1 km
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Norfolk County Historical Society
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Chesapeake Central Library
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Street Side Pizza & Hoagies
23.1 km
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FunVille Playground and Cafe - Chesapeake, VA
23.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lake Drummond
1.6 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty of Lake Drummond in Virginia, a serene destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Lake Drummond Fishing Pier and Boat Ramp
3.3 km
Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Lake Drummond, a premier fishing and wildlife haven in Virginia's scenic landscape.
Washington Ditch Trail
9.1 km
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Great Dismal Swamp
9.3 km
Discover the Great Dismal Swamp's diverse wildlife, serene landscapes, and rich history in this captivating North Carolina wetland.
Dismal Swamp Canal
10.4 km
Explore the Dismal Swamp Canal in Chesapeake, Virginia, a serene waterway rich in history and natural beauty, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Cavalier Wildlife Management Area
12.2 km
Experience the diverse wildlife and serene landscapes of Cavalier Wildlife Management Area in Chesapeake, Virginia, an ideal destination for nature lovers.
Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center
16.0 km
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Deep Creek Park
16.1 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Deep Creek Park, a perfect outdoor retreat in Chesapeake, Virginia, with diverse recreational activities for everyone.
Dismal Swamp State Park
16.1 km
Discover the natural beauty and rich history of Dismal Swamp State Park in South Mills, North Carolina – a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Suffolk Seaboard Station Railroad Museum
16.3 km
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Riddick's Folly House Museum
16.7 km
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Suffolk Art Gallery
16.7 km
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Suffolk Visitor Center
16.7 km
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Lake Meade Park
18.0 km
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Deep Creek Lock Park
18.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Suffolk BBQ Co @ the Airport
13.8 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Suffolk BBQ Co @ the Airport - where smoky flavors meet Southern hospitality in every bite.
Feather-N-Fin Chicken & Seafood
15.0 km
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Kalabash Cuisine
15.3 km
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A Taste of Everything
15.7 km
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The General Public
15.8 km
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El Korita Restaurante Mexicano
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Amicis
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Holland's
15.8 km
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High Tide
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All about fish diner llc
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Harper's Table
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The Mod Olive
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The Plaid Turnip
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Derl'z Restaurant & Pub
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Danny's Downtown Dogs
16.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dismal Swamp Canal Trail Parking
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E-Z Food Mart & Deli / Krispy Krunchy Chicken
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Refined Relics Antiques & Mercantile
15.1 km
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Happy Shopper
15.2 km
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Red Barn Food Store
15.7 km
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KD Fashion
15.8 km
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Cecelia's Boutique and Gifts
16.0 km
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HERB HEADS & Co. Apothecary & Makery®️
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Stephanie's Fashion Boutique
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Olive's Attic
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bratsboutique
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Secret’z closet apparel and accessories
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Planters Peanut Center
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Jester's Gallery Shop
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Birthin Gifts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Suffolk Booster Club Inc
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Haven & Hull
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Lokee Restaurant and Bar
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Applebee's Grill + Bar
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Bethlehem Ruritan Club
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Creek
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Ruby Tuesday
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Arbor Sub & Pub
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Milly's
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King's Restaurant and Hookah Bar
22.1 km
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Branches Tasting Room
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T J Cullys Local Grille
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Skeleton Key Bar and Grille
23.3 km
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AJ Gator's Sports Bar & Grill
23.3 km
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Victory River Burger Bistro Wine and Whiskey (VRBB)
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