DISMAL SWAMP

Dismal Swamp represents one of the last remaining wetland ecosystems in a highly urbanized environment. It has been designated by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and Environmental Protection Agency as a priority wetlands area. Dismal Swamp covers nearly 650 acres of which 12 acres are located in Metuchen. (The remaining portion is in Edison and South Plainfield.) Our portion includes an upland area containing a deciduous forest. The swamp supports a diverse and extensive number of wildlife species. An endangered species, the loggerhead shrike, lives here along with an estimated 165 species of birds. Paths through the swamp allow visitors to hike, bird watch, and look for evidence of other wildlife. A 25-minute slide show and presentation describing the Dismal Swamp is available at no charge. To schedule a show for your group, call Stephen Toth at 732-494-7533.

The entrance to the Dismal Swamp can be found at the end of Liberty Street, off of Central Avenue.

The kiosk, made by highschool students, is located near the entrance to the swamp and holds useful information for visitors.

What is this pretty purple flower?

Signs throughout the swamp alert visitors to interesting vegetation.