Dismal Swamp Visitor Center
12 April 2012 | Great Dismal Swamp
Sheryl, gray, cloudy, cold
Dismal Swamp Visitor Center
We were a little afraid that we’d miss the South Mills lock opening to get to the Visitor Center, since many other boats left before the Elizabeth City Bridge stopped opening on request. However, we made the 7:30 opening, and had plenty of time to spare for the 11 a.m. South Mills lock, so we motored very slowly, once we realized that. We were at the low end of the lock, so had to wait for about 30 minutes for the water to fill in and raise us 8 feet.
We enjoyed seeing 2 Bald Eagles, and a Red Tail Hawk as we wound our way through the Dismal Swamp area. Once again, we were mesmerized by the serenity of the river and tree-lined canal, and managed to stay clear of the banks and any low-hanging branches.
Still, got into the Visitor Center before 1 p.m. This gave us plenty of time to check out the state park. We still didn’t see any bear or bobcats, but did see a wild turkey, off in the distance. Also, saw a Hooded Warbler, heard Black and White Warblers, and many other birds, including Acadian and Great Crested Flycatchers. When we got back to the Visitor Center, we planned our potluck with Kismet, and Aragon II. Lots of good food and company!!
Our lat/long to look us up on Google Earth at the Dismal Swamp Visitor Center is: 36°30.392'N 076°21.353'W.
The picture is of Sheryl biking Bald Head Island.