Known as the “Everglades of Central Jersey,” the 1,240-acre Dismal Swamp Conservation Area is the largest natural area remaining in northern Middlesex County, spanning portions of Edison, Metuchen and South Plainfield.

The Dismal Swamp serves as a natural oasis holding United States Environmental Protection Agency Federal Priority Wetlands. The Dismal Swamp is home to over 175 species of birds, and two dozen species of mammals, amphibians and reptiles, as well as a dozen threatened and endangered species, such as the American bittern, bald eagle, and spotted turtle.

The Dismal Swamp also provides natural flood control, while its forests produce oxygen, and its wetlands clean and purify water. Our mission is to protect and preserve all remaining land in the Dismal Swamp Conservation Area for the benefit of Middlesex County families and endangered wildlife.