Dismal Swamp

Dismal Swamp, coastal region straddling the boundary of Virginia and North Carolina. It occupies some 750 sq mi (2,000 sq km). The swamp contains a dense growth of juniper, cypress, white cedar, and black gum trees, though much of it is now drained and used for commercial lumbering and agriculture. It is crossed by Dismal Swamp Canal, a part of the Intracoastal Waterway. Near the center is Lake Drummond (6 sq mi/15.5 sq km), a popular fishing area.