Visitors to the refuge
may participate in a variety of activities including hiking, biking, nature
photography, wildlife observation, hunting, fishing and boating. The
refuge was established for the purpose of protecting and managing the swamp's
unique ecosystem which includes wildlife and habitat. Therefore, portions
of the refuge may be periodically closed to public use activities in order
to accomplish this objective.
For Visitor Opportunities information sheet click
here.
A variety of unpaved roads provides opportunities for hiking and biking. Recommended is the Washington Ditch Trail, a 4 1/2 mile route to Lake Drummond and the elevated wooden Dismal Town Boardwalk Trail, located adjacent to the Washington Ditch parking area. The boardwalk meanders for a mile through a representative portion of swamp habitats. For a refuge trail map, Click Here.
Fishing and boating is permitted year-round on Lake Drummond with access via the Feeder Ditch, connecting Lake Drummond with the Dismal Swamp Canal. A public boat ramp is located north of the Feeder Ditch on the Dismal Swamp Canal. Boats must be small enough to portage around the water control structure near the lake or to be lifted by electric tram to the higher level of the Lake. Lift weight is restricted to a maximum of 1,000 lbs. Vessels are limited to 25 hp on the Lake. A Virginia fishing license is required.
Boating access at the Interior Ditch boat ramp is by special permit on weekends only during the fishing season of April 1 to June 15. Additional information is available from the refuge office.
A refuge orientation is available from staff to organized school, scout, civic, and professional groups by advanced reservation. Reservations may be made by contacting visitor services at the refuge headquarters. Field activities are to be lead by the class teacher or group leader. The entrance can accommodate buses limited to a 25 passenger size or less, by permit only. Orientations and vehicle access are not available on Saturdays and Sundays. A video and suggested activities/lessons guide are also available at no cost for school and scout groups.
A typical visit would include a 15 minute orientation at either the refuge headquarters (group size limited to a maximum of 40), or at a trail head (recommended for larger groups) followed by a teacher guided activity at either the Washington Ditch or Jericho Ditch trail heads, or auto access to Lake Drummond through the Railroad Ditch entrance.
Off-site orientations are limited to staff availability.
Camping or overnight use is prohibited on the refuge lands. There are no designated picnic areas or facilities on the refuge lands.
The Lake Drummond Reservation (Army Corp of Engineers site), at the Feeder Ditch spillway, is open for 24-hour use. The facility consist of an open grassy area for camping, fire rings, two screen picnic shelters, outdoor grills and tables. restrooms with running water (usually April to November). You will need to bring all your needs including drinking water and fire wood. Access to the camping area is by water only; sites are "first-come." Use of Lake Drummond is during daylight hours only. Swimming is not allowed; fishing by Virginia fishing license.
A white-tailed deer hunt is held on scheduled days in October and November. A black bear hunt is held on two days in mid November. Permits are required. Portions of the refuge are closed to other public use activities on hunt and scouting days. Additional information is available from the refuge office, or click here .
