Bridge & Lock Schedule for the Dismal Swamp Canal
Date Posted: July 30, 2024
Source: Waterway Guide Mid-Atlantic Edition


When navigating the Dismal Swamp Canal, boaters should remain vigilant about bridge heights and lock schedules. Given below are the details for each bridge and lock along the canal, with information about their operational status and clearance heights. It's essential to note that Waterway Guide Media does not guarantee the accuracy of this information, as it is sourced from various state and federal entities. Variations in water depth, signage placement, and other factors may affect the published clearances. Always exercise caution when transiting.


Communication:

All bridges and locks along the Dismal Swamp Canal monitor VHF Channel 13


Deep Creek Lock: MM 10.5, Operates on a Set Schedule 

Deep Creek Bridge: MM 11.1, Set Schedule, Clearance at Mean High Water (MHW): 4 feet

Great Dismal Swamp Canal Visitor Center Foot Bridge: MM 28.0, Usually Open, No Clearance (ground level)

U.S. 17 Hwy. Bridge: MM 31.5, Fixed, Clearance at MHW: 65 feet

South Mills Bridge: MM 32.6, Set Schedule, Clearance at MHW: 4 feet

South Mills Lock: MM 32.7, Operates on a Set Schedule

Norfolk Southern Railroad Bridge: MM 47.7, Usually Open, Clearance at MHW: 3 feet

U.S. 158 Hwy. Bridge: MM 50.7, On Signal with Specific Time Variations, Clearance at MHW: 2 feet


For further details and updates, boaters are encouraged to click on each bridge link provided in the original guide or consult the latest Local Notice to Mariners. Being well-informed will ensure a smooth and safe journey through this historically rich and scenic waterway.

Comment Submitted by Peter Squier - July 31, 2024
We were the only boat going through the Dismal Swamp canal yesterday according to the lock master. The route is beautiful and peaceful. I did have 3 bumps along the way while in the middle of the channel while drafting only 3'4". I imagine I'd have a few more bumps if I drafted over 4'. Nothing too bad, but this is the risk and trade off when doing the Dismal Swamp canal. We tied up to the Visitor's Center wall for the night which is free but has no electricity or water. There are nice bathrooms there, but no shower. The NC Dismal Swamp State Park is next to the Visitor's Welcome Center and you should plan a few hours to stroll through the trails and the park's visitor center to get a true appreciation for the history, animal and plant diversity, and the beauty of this truly unique place. We left the Visitor Center heading north at 10:30 and arrived at the Deep Creek lock around 1:20, waited until the 1:30 opening of first the bridge, and then traveled about a half mile to the lock. It's about an eight foot drop. We exited around 2:20 so plan for just under an hour to get through. The lock master was very kind, helpful and informative.
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