Deep Creek Travel Guide

This is the bridge over the Dismal Swamp Canal in Deep Creek. Just like the one at South Mills, the bridge is operated by the lock tender 8 times a day. He opens it for the north bound yachts before the 0830 lock opening, and then he closes it and gets into his vehicle and drives down to the lock, operates the lock, and comes back to open the bridge for the south bound yachts about 0900. He (or she - some lock tenders are women) does this for the 0830, 1100, 1330 and 1530 openings.

When I started to write up the Great Bridge area, I discovered that the locks have parks associated with them

Located at the juncture of the Dismal Swamp Canal, Gilmerton Cut and Deep Creek (300 Luray Street), the 25-acre Deep Creek Lock Park is heavily wooded park has several overlook towers for birdwatching, elevated walkways through tidal inlet and marsh area, a fitness trail and canoe access to the Dismal Swamp Canal.

Review from the Hampton Roads website: August 02, 2002
"I spent many a summer day here as a young boy. Just enjoyed the cool shade, watching the boats and fishing. It is a nice secret get away. Hiking trails and picnicing for the family. Go spend a day there : )"
Reviewer: D.M. from Virginia beach

There's also a nice story about the park from the April 2002 Virginian Pilot

Special Features:
Hiking, Run/Walk Trails, Fishing, Kayaking, Canoeing,

This lock doesn't have bleachers for watching the boats like they do at the Great Bridge Lock, but it sounds like a nice place to spend some time.