Description
The Green Swamp Preserve contains some of the country’s finest examples of a healthy longleaf pine savanna managed with controlled burning. The trail is 1.3 miles one-way (2.6 miles in total) and 2-3 feet wide. The trail is mostly flat, with no significant steep slopes. The walking surface is uneven with dirt, grasses, inundated water and exposed roots; we advise wearing closed-toe shoes. The route is marked with red diamonds on the trees, and it starts at the parking lot area (trailhead), where you will see a pond and continue through a pine savanna until you reach a boardwalk. After crossing the boardwalk, you will hike through Shoestring Savanna, Stringbean Savanna and Beanpatch Savanna- where you will turn around and walk back. Always follow the red diamonds on the trees. Download the trail map before you visit.
Longleaf pine savannas are open and clear, so all the sunlight comes in—please use sunscreen and use sunglasses to protect your eyes. The preserve is open to hunters during hunting season; you may hear the sound of gunfire during this time. Keep in mind that there are no resting benches along the trail or restrooms on site.