The Swamp Forest Trail is a pleasant hike along a well-worn path that circles the 200-acre pond built by the Army Corps of Engineers. Occasionally, the trail drifts away from the water into the forest skirting woodland swamps. In total, the trail takes the hiker through field and forest over 26 footbridges.

The trail begins across the park road from the nature center parking area. It is well marked as it heads into low-lying woodland and over a small spillway. Take a gander for great blue herons and resident waterfowl. The beautiful woods consist primarily of red maples, sweet gums, and aged poplars. There are several segments of the path that overlap the park's multi-use trail. As the trail nears the youth camp, it juts inland then weaves back toward water's edge. About 1.5 miles into the trek, hikers will notice signs of beaver. Their remnant stumps make great perches for the mighty kingfisher. At 2.7 miles, the trail nears the boat ramp where shore anglers attempt to snag largemouth bass, bluegill, striped bass, crappie and more. Look for the disc golfers at about 5.5 miles. These disc enthusiasts can be spotted in the field clearings and in the woods. As the trail nears the terminus at 6.5 miles, it meanders through a grove of picnic tables where summer swimmers enjoyed the designated waters. Follow signs through the thin mixed woods along the shore and back to the nature center.

In addition to seeing sights of beaver activity, wading herons, and perched kingfishers, keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, fox, and possibly muskrat.

Directions: From Glasgow, DE, Travel two miles south of Glasgow off Delaware Route 896. The main entrance is on Howell School Road. Travel past the park entrance and nature center pay station. Park at the nature center, crossing the park road and walking to the right corner of the open picnic ground.

Elevation: 60 feet

Elevation Gain: Minimal

Difficulty: Easy

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