Cypress Creek Swamp Preserve

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Kentucky

This preserve provides protection for one of the best examples of a bottomland hardwood.

Cypress knees in the Swamp © Tom Barnes/University of Kentucky

About

Cypress swamp © Thomas G. Barnes

Cypress Creek Swamp is within the Mississippian Embayment section of Kentucky. This preserve provides protection for one of the best remaining examples of a bottomland hardwood and cypress/tupelo (Taxodium/Nyssa) swamp in the Jackson Purchase region of Kentucky.

Location

Marshall County, near the Tennessee River.

Size

284 acres

Conditions

Due to the sensitivity of the site, the preserve is open to the public only through Conservancy guided hikes.

What to See: Plants

Although tupelo is the dominant species, cypress trees of various sizes are scattered throughout.

What to See: Animals

Great blue herons have developed a large rookery (nest-colony) in the center of the swamp. Two beaver lodges have been observed, with evidence of activity throughout the swamp.

Why the Conservancy Selected This Site

Three rare animal species, great blue heron (Ardea herodias), brown creeper (Certhia Americana), bird-voiced tree frog (Hyla avivoca) and one rare plant species cypress-knee sedge (Carex decomposita) are found here.

What the Conservancy Has Done/Is Doing

Efforts here are to protect one of the best remaining examples of bottomland hardwoods. The Conservancy plans to protect the rare animal species by monitoring and maintaining the health of their populations.

Other objectives include ensuring the good water quality of the region. Threats to water quality stem from sedimentation, chemical runoff and off-road vehicle use within the watershed.

Things To Do

Plan Your Visit

For more information on visiting this and other Nature Conservancy sites in Kentucky, see our Preserve Visitation Guidelines page.

Directions

Discussion

Have you been to this preserve? Are you thinking of visiting? See what others are saying about their experiences and add your comments below.

Add Your Comments

Time for you to join the discussion. Tell us about your experience at this preserve. What plants and animals did you see? When did you go? You can help others plan their visit when you share your thoughts. And thank you for visiting one of our nature preserves!

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