Wanderlust World Wanderlust World The Everglades' vast "River of Grass" is unique, but several other U.S. wetlands share its subtropical character, biodiversity, and ecological importance.
Over 400,000 acres of freshwater swamp with iconic cypress forests, floating peat islands, and abundant alligators, wading birds, and turtles. A National Wildlife Refuge and UNESCO tentative site.
The largest river swamp in the U.S. (1+ million acres), where the Atchafalaya River meets the Gulf. Cypress-tupelo swamps, crawfish farms, and rich Cajun culture define this dynamic delta.
Adjacent to the Everglades, this 729,000-acre preserve protects cypress strands, pine flatwoods, and mangroves—critical habitat for the endangered Florida panther.
A barrier island with maritime forests, salt marshes, dunes, and feral horses. Its undeveloped beaches and historic ruins (Carnegie mansion) offer a coastal wilderness experience.
Preserves the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the Southeast. Boardwalks wind through towering champion trees and floodplain ecosystems.
All feature slow-moving water, high biodiversity, carbon-sequestering soils, and vulnerability to drainage, development, and climate change—making their protection vital.