The 5 Best National Park Wetlands

National park wetlands and swamps provide unique ecosystems for a range of flora and fauna to flourish. You may be surprised to know that you can hike through many of these biodiverse landscapes. Alternatively, kayak, canoe, and boat tours can also be fantastic ways to experience wetlands in America.
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Visit USA Parks

Beyond the typical mountains and forests of America’s national parks lie untouched, underrated landscapes: wetlands. The swamps and wetlands found in the five national parks listed below provide everything from opportunities to lace up your hiking boots to chances to jump inside a boat or paddle a kayak. Just bring your sense of adventure and prepare to get at least a little wet!

National Park Wetlands

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

This midwestern national park’s nearly 1,500 wetlands might take several years to explore. If you don’t have that kind of time, take the Ohio and Erie Towpath Canal towpath trail for the best overall tour. Opened to facilitate transportation in the early 19th century from Cleveland to Portsmouth, today this historical route welcomes tourists choosing to travel the canal path. Several visitor centers along the way offer places to chat with a ranger and learn more about this park’s history.

Congaree National Park, South Carolina

In one of America’s least visited national parks, water trails for canoeing and kayaking offer a unique approach to exploration. Thanks to the temperate South Carolina climate, you can explore Congaree National Park  year-round. The park’s proximity to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the East Coast make it a great jumping off point for more Southeastern adventures.

Olympic National Park, Washington

A rainforest in a national park? You bet! And the Wetlands Loop Trail in Olympic National Park, Washington, will take you there. Embrace your inner explorer as you navigate treacherous switchbacks and cross a creek into the lush wetland biome between Morgenroth and Kahkwa Creeks. You can also explore over 73 miles of rugged Pacific coastline. Wherever you go in Olympic National Park, pack your waterproof layers.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Between its streams, geysers, hot springs, and mountains there’s yet another natural feature found in Yellowstone National Park: wetlands. You might think of Yellowstone as being on the drier side as part of the Rocky Mountain west, and it is, but you’ll also find rich riparian areas and wetland meadows which are vital for the park’s ecosystem. For the best wildlife and nature encounters, try the Northeast Entrance Road, Firehole Lake Road, Dunraven Pass, and Norris Geyser Basin. Among other wonders, you’ll be sure to spot frogs, dragonflies, and wildflowers!

Everglades National Park, Florida

In Everglades National Park you’ll find ample opportunities to explore waterways, but travel with caution, especially along the Wilderness Waterway Trail. At 99 miles long, taking an average of eight days to complete, this all-water wetland trail isn’t for the faint of heart. Paddling along the backcountry Everglades, keep your eyes peeled for manatees, alligators, dolphins, turtles, and a variety of fish and birds. Wondering where you sleep? Reservations are available for elevated docks called “chickees” which are used as overnight camping platforms. From there, you’ll have unbelievably clear views for stargazing.

These national park wetlands feature a variety of experiences, from all-water trails to muddy-under-foot hikes. Whether you’re paddling the swamp or trekking the rain forest, the wondrous beauty of these unique landscapes is sure to linger long after your visit.

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