Swamp photo by MB Evans
Swamp
Alligator
Alligator

The Bulltown Swamp

Bulltown Swamp has its own stories to tell. In Joseph LeConte's autobiography he describes the boyhood adventures he and his brothers experienced in the swamp. An African American man named Primus made "a fine dugout canoe out of a large cypress log three feet in diameter. The amount of joy we got out of that canoe was incalculable. Whole days were spent in the exploration of the great swamp on which the plantation was situated. I am sure we felt, on a small scale, all the joy and pride of discoverers of unknown lands." He also describes how "small alligators, six and seven feet long, abounded in the swamp and though we cared little for them, interfered somewhat with our swimming."

It's important to remember too that it was the water, of this black water swamp ecosystem, that made inland rice production possible at Woodmanston. Check our "History" page for details.

The swamp portion of the nature trail can be difficult at times but it is well worth the hike to experience the incredible tree formations, mosses, lichens and natural scenery. This cypress and gum swamp, which so enticed Louis and other scientists, now hosts a variety of native plants.

The swamp has a mystery all its own. As you explore its depths, especially during  rainy season, you will discover a number of swamp creatures including alligators, otters, frogs, toads and lizards, to name a few. Recently several baby alligators were discovered in a flooded rice field at the end of one of our swamp trails. Birds, including swamp sparrows, eastern bluebirds and gray-blue gnatcatchers, may also appear. In the shallow waters or along the water's edge you may also observe egrets or herons wading gracefully in search of a meal of fish, frogs or insects.

As areas of great ecological diversity, the swamp, nature trail and gardens survive as living memorials to the botanical achievements of Louis LeConte.

Check the "Plan Your Visit" and "Contact Us" pages for details concerning your visit to the swamp.