Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park

Situated along the meandering Congaree River in central South Carolina, Congaree National Park is home to champion trees, primeval forest landscapes, and diverse plant and animal life. This 22,200-acre park protects the largest contiguous tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the United States. Known for its giant hardwoods and towering pines, the park?s floodplain forest includes one of the highest canopies in the world and some of the tallest trees in the eastern United States. Congaree National Park provides a sanctuary for plants and animals, a research site for scientists, and a place for you to walk and relax in a tranquil wilderness setting.

IN DEPTH

Park Regulations & Safety Camping Regulations CAMPING (primitive) is allowed in the park by permit only. Permits may be obtained at the Visitor Center from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m....read more

Walking & Hiking Hiking Boardwalks (pets not allowed) Length: 2.4 miles Time: 1.2 hours Elevated Raised nearly 6 feet above the forest floor, the Elevated Boardwalk winds through a diverse old-growth forest. Use the self-guided brochure and...read more

Things To Do Congaree National Park provides a sanctuary for plants and animals, a research site for scientists, and a place for you to walk and relax in a tranquil wilderness setting...read more

Camping Camp in wilderness area of park at least 100 feet away from backcountry trails and water and 500 feet away from visitor center and boardwalk (see camping regulations)....read more

History The Early PastPrehistoric foragers hunted the area and fished its waters. The Congaree Indians claimed the floodplain and Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto recounted the intrigue of the...read more

Just For Kids Our children are our greatest natural & cultural resource. The park mission "…to preserve and protect for…future generations." is aimed directly at our kids and their descendents. At Congaree...read more

Planning Your Visit Since most of the park is designated wilderness, you have the opportunity to experience the natural wonders on foot or by canoe. There are over 20 miles of hiking...read more

In A Nutshell Directions Congaree National Park is located about 20 miles from downtown Columbia, South Carolina in the Hopkins / Gadsden community. Directions to the park are as follows: From CAE - Columbia...read more

PARK PHOTOS

Congaree : Cypress Swamp
Cypress Swamp
Sebastien Windal