Okefenokee National Wildlife Reserve

FOLKSTON. Nature-lovers take notice: Just 20 miles east of busy I-95 is a mysterious place of Spanish moss and cypress trees. Essentially an enormous peat bog that lies 100 or so feet below sea level, the legendary Okefenokee Swamp – whose dark, slow waters shelter alligators, snakes, fish, wading birds, and lily pads of all sizes – was designated a National Wildlife Refuge in 1936 and spans nearly 400,000 square acres. Canoeing, hiking, wildlife viewing, hunting and fishing are all allowed, although seasonal restrictions may apply.