Coronavirus (COVID-19) Notice
Although most refuge lands and outdoor spaces have remained open for the public to enjoy, we ask that you do the following:

  • Check local conditions on this website and call ahead for current information. Operations vary based on local public health conditions.
  • Face masks are required in all federal buildings and on all federal lands.
  • Maintain a safe distance between yourself and other groups.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
  • Most importantly, stay home if you feel sick


Features

GDS WD Trail_usfws

Washington Ditch Trailhead:

With a scenic boardwalk and a 9-mile (round-trip) trail to Lake Drummond, this is the perfect stop for hiking, biking, and bird watching.

Click here for more refuge trail information

Important to Know!

Mask Mandate

To protect the health of those who live, work and visit U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service public lands and facilities, and in support of the President’s Executive Order on Protecting the Federal Workforce and Requiring Mask-Wearing, face masks are required in all USFWS-managed buildings and facilities. Masks are also required on USFWS-managed lands when physical distancing cannot be maintained, including narrow or busy trails, boardwalks, and observation decks.

Mask Mandate

Summer Jobs Available

Great Dismal Swamp NWR is hiring YCC Crew Members for an 8-week, full-time position beginning June 21. These positions will work outdoors and get to help with various projects around the refuge such as trail maintenance and construction, habitat restoration, and biology assistance.

More information on summer hiring

eBird Trail Tracker

Photography

Follow the link to see what birds are seen where as soon as anyone post to eBird! Photocredit:USFWS/MJohnson

eBird Tracker

For the Most Current Emergency Trail Notices...

RRentrance-promo

Please go to our refuge facebook page! Damp and windy weather can bring down a tree and block a road without notice this time of year. And then there are habitat management and construction projects that may require brief temporary trail closings. The most current information is always available on the refuge facebook page.

GDSNWR facebook page
Hunting

Proposed Hunt Expansion

BearHuntpromo

The 2021 Draft Hunt Plan is now open for public comments. To read the plan and for more information on how to submit comments, please click the link below

2021 Great Dismal Swamp Draft Hunt Plan

About the NWRS

National Wildlife Refuge System

NWRS Logo

The National Wildlife Refuge System, within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, manages a national network of lands and waters set aside to conserve America's fish, wildlife, and plants.

Learn more about the NWRS
Follow NWRS Online