Forested wetlands characterized by slow-moving or still waters, swamps are highly diverse ecosystems teeming with wildlife including river otter, American alligator, flocks of warblers, turtles, frogs and dragonflies. These critically important ecosystems act like giant sponges that moderate the effects of inland flooding and protect coastal areas from storm surges. Swamps also function as water treatment plants, filtering wastes and purifying water naturally.
From cedar to bald cypress-tupelo, there are national natural landmarks designated for their outstanding illustration of the different types of swamps found across the country. Some of these include:
Seashore Natural Area, VA
Francis Beidler Forest, SC
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp, MD
Henderson Sloughs, KY
Tamarack Bog Nature Preserve, IN
Heron Pond-Little Black Slough Natural Area, IL
Okefenokee Swamp, GA
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, FL
Acushnet Cedar Swamp, MA
Big Lake Natural Area, AR
Beaverdam Creek Swamp, AL
Pachaug-Great Meadow Swamp, CT
Tamarack Swamp, PA
Cornwall Swamp, VT
Bergen-Byron Swamp, NY
Last updated: January 28, 2022