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North Carolina Swamp Named One Of The Most Important Wetlands

Author Jeff Gorra

Daily Passport recently detailed unique wetlands around the world and the importance of preserving them, largely due to the wildlife that lives there. In North Carolina, a swamp area made this list of the eight most important wetlands.

“Although wetlands (alternatively called bogs, bayous, swamps, or marshes) cover less than 8% of the Earth’s land, it’s estimated that they retain almost a third of the world’s carbon,” Daily Passport explains.

The Great Dismal Swamp

In Northeastern North Carolina, you will find the Great Dismal Swamp. It also borders southeastern Virginia, as it lies between Norfolk, Virginia, and Elizabeth City, North Carolina. In total, you will find 112,000 acres of swampland here where foxes, bears, alligators and over 200 birds can be found.

“Wildlife thrives here and plant life abounds,” Fish and Wildlife Service states. In total, the Great Dismal Swamp is home to about 47 different species.

“The refuge is the largest intact remnant of a vast swamp that once covered more than one million acres,” FWS explained. By the 1970’s the 112,000 acres we recognize today remained. Today, this area is the largest remaining forested swamp in the eastern United States.

In the center lies Lake Drummond, which consists of 3,100 acres. Presently, through North Carolina government parks, you can hike, camp, bike, paddle, and fish in the Great Dismal Swamp area. There are no fees to access the area. In addition, you can bring your pets to the outdoor areas only. Yes, they must be on a leash.

Daily Passport says, “The Great Dismal Swamp is the geologic remainder of a vast sea.” It is worth noting that their feature recognized these impressive wetlands on a global scale. This North Carolina swamp was named one of the most important wetlands in the world. The others in America were in Florida and Louisiana. Indonesia, Botswana, and the Great Vasyugan Mire in Russia were some of the other wetland areas to make the list.

North Carolina Has One of the Best Winter Getaways in the U.S.

It’s never too early to start planning an exciting winter getaway, especially since the most popular winter vacation spots get booked up quickly. The good news, though, is that most people take vacations in the summer, so traveling in the winter can be a bit more relaxing. You are also able to usually find better travel rates during the winter season, except during the holidays. If you don’t have to travel during the holidays, just don’t, because it’s a mess. So, what are the best winter getaways in the U.S.? North Carolina has one of them.

I’ve researched some of the most popular winter vacation destinations in hopes of finding the perfect spot. The following list includes not just sunny, warm getaways, but also some areas that people who love snow can enjoy. Honestly, many people who live in a warm climate like to flock to a snowy location for a bit during the winter to get that seasonal experience, even if that seems counter intuitive. Of course, those who live in the northern parts of America love to go to a warm spot and get away from their daily lives filled with snow and ice.

I’m a Michigan girl, so I’m very familiar with the cold and ice in the winter. Not that I like it. Each year, I say I’m going to escape, even if it’s just for a few days, to a warmer location. But, I never do. Maybe this year will be different. Looking at vacation rates, it’s fairly easy to find some good deals, again, if it’s not during the holiday travel season. Read on for some of the bets winter getaways in the U.S., based on my research. What’s your favorite winter vacation spot? Reach out to me on social media here and let me know. Have a fantastic winter, and stay warm.

Best Winter Getaways in the U.S.

  • 5. Savannah, Georgia

    If you’re looking for a mild getaway, Savannah, Georgia, is a great choice. It’s pretty mild in the winter, so not too cold or too hot. The Historic District is a popular winter vacation spot, too.

    Visit Savannah

    Your complete guide to what to do, where to stay and where to eat in Savannah, GA. Plan a charming, Southern escape, where quirkiness materializes through art and period architecture houses trendy boutiques, where ghost stories are set under a veil of Spanish moss and where local cuisine comes straight from the coast.

  • 4. Asheville, North Carolina

    The beautiful area of Asheville, North Carolina, has plenty of gorgeous snowfall, and it’s less dangerous than many other areas with snowfall. Lately, Asheville has one up in population, but it’s still a popular tourist destination. One choice spot is the French Broad River, with lots of winter activities, breweries and restaurants.

    Explore Asheville | Things to Do, Events, & Hotels | Asheville, NC's Official Travel Site

    Find things to do, events, hotels, trip ideas and outdoor activities in Asheville, North Carolina. Find great package deals and local restaurants too.

  • 3. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

    If you want to enjoy a winter vacation and learn about history, Philadelphia is a great vacation spot. Sure, it’s won’t be like sunny Florida. But, Philly has lots of great museums and historical spots to enjoy indoors, while staying toasty.

    VISIT PHILADELPHIA | Visitphilly.com

    Visit Philadelphia is the official visitor website for Philly travel and tourism information including hotels and overnight options, restaurants, events, things to do, and local attractions. Plan your visit!

  • 2. Traverse City, Michigan

    I know what you’re thinking. Why go to Michigan in the winter? Well, if you love snow, then it’s worth the trip. Traverse City, Michigan, is a quaint town, but it’s big enough to have lots of things to do and places to stay. It’s also cold in the winter but not as cold as, say the Dakotas.

    Traverse City Hotels, Events, Restaurants & Things to Do

    Find information on hotels, events, restaurants and things to do in Traverse City, Michigan. Start Planning your trip to Traverse City today!

  • 1. Key West, Florida

    If you want to get away from the snow and ice, go to Key West, Florida. It’s considered one of the finest tropical spots in the U.S. during the winter months. Soak up the sun and have a margarita, because why not?

    https://keywest.com/

Jeff Gorra is a Boston-based writer who has been with Beasley Media Group since the beginning of 2023. He writes about restaurants and food, as well as sports and rock music. His experience also includes show hosting and in-depth creative writing in rock and reggae dub music. Jeff’s an avid surfer, New York Giants, and Pearl Jam fan, however, if you make unforgettable pizza, he is sure to find you.

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