The Great Swamp has easy trails, lots of plants, animals, and wildlife - with views for days!

The Great Swamp is a great choice for a day out with the family to explore all that nature has to offer!  There are so many options for exploration at the swamp - including 1.5 miles worth of trails made of winding boardwalks and flat gravel, leading to lookout points (bird blinds), a 2-mile drive or walking auto-tour route on Pleasant Plains Road, 8 additional miles of hiking trails for the experienced hikers, and tons to stop, see/photograph, and wonder about along the way.  From snapping turtles to birds, snakes to bugs - creatures small and large are always waiting around the corner!

Usually quiet, you can often find yourself alone with nature along the trails during the weekdays.  Parent date day or a visit with kids of all ages, this will be a trip to write home about.  While there are restrooms located near the parking lot and in between both trail directions, you will need to bring bug spray (and wear long pants/high socks), sneakers, sunscreen, sunglasses, a backpack, water, a child carrier if bringing little ones, and for some extra fun, bring a pair of binoculars!

It's always a great idea to plan a 'scavenger hunt' for the kids with printables you can make up yourself and are age-appropriate.  I made a BINGO board checklist of the things I thought we might spot, like flowers, trees, plants, waterfowl, amphibians, snapping turtles, snakes, etc.  My 3-year-old son loved it!

Not in the mood to walk or want to extend your day at the swamp?  Definitely give the auto tour a try! We saw a lot of amazing things just from our car window!

This location is great for adults and kids of all ages and interests.  Their website contains events, different trails, locations, and things to see in the area.