Swamp help

So I've just returned to the game after a long break and I need some tips and advice for the swamp. The addition of the Abomination has thrown me so far off I have no idea where even to begin. (idk when it was added, but it was after I stopped playing at first- so that can give yall a good reference when I stopped.)

I just lost all my gear, (and the gear of my two previous characters I grabbed in an attempt to save my stuff- both of whom were in iron.) so I'm turning for more suggestions on this matter becauuuuse It's uh… it's tough. Any and all suggestions and advice is helpful. I've given up on getting my stuff back at this time, and I'm just gonna start up with whatever's left I do have. But I want some advice and suggestions for what I should do.

Idea's on how to get a base established primarily would be great.