Originally posted by N.W.O.:

Originally posted by Sabaithal:

If you see big, gnarled, scary looking leafless trees in the distance, that's a swamp. Probably the best indication. They usually are not close to the initial spawn so you may need to sail quite a bit.

I saw a ghost/spirit once while rafting at night. It disappeared as i tried getting closer.

probably odin

swamps will either be on your first island or another island close by. Scout around the perimeter of your first island to see what you can find/spot. They are always on water.
Before you see the trees you can see the terrain. Swamps are very flat. If you see a really flat area that is probably a swamp and you will see trees populate as you get closer.

Go ashore in a safe biome and work the edges and scout out some resources.