The sun can be intense, even on cloudy days. Make yourself as small as possible and back away slowly. The ramen noodle soups and dumplings are delicious. Congaree National Park is characterized by its many unique ecological features. Congaree National Park protects, studies, and interprets the resources, history, stories, and wilderness character of the nations largest remaining tract of southern old-growth bottomland forest and its associated ecosystems. Its more of a casual indifference. Comprising nearly 11,000 hectares, Congaree National Park is the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. If you see an animal, do not approach it. Anything is possible in the natural world, including a mountain lion showing up at Congaree, however briefly (where it should enjoy fine dining on the succulent swine herd). It is the largest bald cypress in Congaree National Park with a circumference of 30 feet. The southern part of the Sims trail connects the Boardwalk Trail with the Weston Lake Trail, River Trail, and Oak Ridge Trail. Youll find some challenging terrain with steep scrambles or leisurely strolls depending upon what youre looking to do, Read More Hiking In Dallas: 15 Stunning Hikes Near Dallas, TexasContinue, Redwood National and State Parks are located on the north coast of California. There are invasive species within Congaree National Park, and the Southeast Coast Exotic Plant Management Team manages exotic plants throughout the park. Discover the best attractions, trails, directions, maps, dining, lodging and more. Please review the Congaree Pet Policy before bringing your dog to Congaree. Walk the Boardwalk Loop Trail. Congaree National Park is open year-round. Hiking trails provide access for all levels and time constraints and offer views that are both scenic and educational about this little-known treasure on the banks of the Congaree River. It boasts stunningly decorated caves, ancient trees, astonishing mountainous scenery, and an abundance of other scenic features that are hard to find these days. See a glimpse of what Congaree National Park has to offer, including champion trees, kayaking and canoeing opportunities, and wilderness for exploration and rejuvenation. Cedar Creek Bridge | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park, Cedar Creek | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. By studying champion trees, scientists can discern optimum ecological conditions for these species. From the Boardwalk Loop Trail, walk 0.6 miles on the Weston Lake Loop Trail until you get to the trail junction with the River Trail. Congaree National Park is a pristine wilderness in South Carolina that is teeming with wildlife and natural beauty. The Harry Hampton Visitor Center is the main hub for the park. The Boardwalk | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Congaree National Park hosts five national champion trees and 27 state champion trees, which can provide insights into old-growth ecosystems. The CBR Core Protected Area includes 15,269 acres of Congaree National Park, all of which are federally designated wilderness. Check conditions here! Visit Media to see details. Yes, Congaree is worth visiting. Located in the Five Points neighborhood, this restaurant serves southern fare with a twist. Congaree has one of the tallest temperate deciduous forests in the world -- it's taller than the old-growth forests found in Japan, the Himalayas, southern South America. Congaree encounters - Today, South Carolina has an estimated 1,200 resident black bears. . You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Synchronous flashing displays are rare among North American fireflies, and the species of fireflies found within Congaree National Park live in a range that spans Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee with a preferred habit in mature forests and wet bottomlands. Maine's Acadia National Park is one of the best national parks for dogs for a few reasons. Colas Restaurant, Mr. Friendlys New Southern, Alodias Cucina Italiana (located outside of Columbia), and Midwood Smokehouse also get very good reviews. If youre not careful, you could quickly end up as prey. There are a few things to be aware of that could make your hike more dangerous. On the left will be an unmaintained road. We chose to have it delivered. It is also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. If you want to take in Congaree National Park, it's easy to do one day: walk the boardwalk trail, go canoeing or kayaking on Cedar Creek, and explore the wilderness on one of the park's numerous hiking trails.. Until 2003, the Congaree Swamp National Park had been known as . At the visitor center, pick up a hiking trail guide and this lists each trail with its corresponding number. Though there are plenty others which are far more remote, or with way fewer visitors, Congaree simply fails to garner much attention. There are South Carolina State Parks close by that offer RV camping. Be sure to stay on the trail and away from any areas where you cant see the ground clearly. Learn more on the NPS website. The Fork Swamp Trail is located near the Bates Ferry Trail, so this hike is worth doing if you will be out this way. Its always better to have too much than not enough. There is a 15 mile trail called the Cedar Creek Canoe Trail, that starts at Bannisters Bridge and ends at the Congaree River. Whether you're looking for an easy stroll in a pristine nature preserve or an epic multi-day adventure, we rounded up the 24 most beautiful gems of the U.S. National Park system. First, the park is home to some potentially dangerous wildlife, including snakes and alligators. Usually, the fall season is the drier season to visit the park. Astonishing biodiversity exists in Congaree National Park, the largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States. Hike with a buddy. Fishing is allowed in all areas of Congaree National Park. Are there bears in Cuyahoga Valley National Park? This large carnivore has a huge home range that could encompass half-a-dozen bear territories. However, if you encounter a bear, do not approach it. Sadly, when we arrived, the whole place was flooded even half of the boardwalk was under water. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to Your Places, click Maps, and you will see this map on your list. Spread over a whopping 26,000 acres of land on the low-lying floodplains of South Carolina, it's a strange and unique place. The Firefly Trail is a flat trail that runs through the woods just to the south of the visitor center. Spread over approximately 34 square miles of forest and wetlands, the park is home to several beneficial resources including forests, freshwater bodies, and various native species of plants and animals. Located in central South Carolina near the state's capital of Columbia, this National Park is home to an incredible range of biodiversity. Interesting Facts about Congaree National Park, Geography and Maps of Congaree National Park. Bears like baths. During a visit to Congaree National Park, the number one thing to do is walk the Boardwalk Loop Trail. The park is full of steep hills and treacherous trails. Untreated water from lakes, rivers, and streams can contain harmful bacteria and viruses that can make you sick. We didnt get to see any knees since they were all under water. Congaree National Park is home to a number of different species of fireflies, but it is the synchronized fireflies that lure thousands of people to the park each spring. The spring and fall see temperatures in the 70s. All rights reserved Earth Trekkers. At 26,000 acres, it is the 7th smallest park. Some even reach an astounding height of 170 feet, creating one of the highest forest canopies in the world. Is It Safe To Drink Water In Congaree National Park? We didnt see much in the way of wildlife, but Cedar Creek is beautiful, and to drift along the water, listening to the birds and the crickets, and to see these majestic old trees, was a very memorable experience. It depends. If youre hiking during the summer, you need to be aware of the possibility of severe storms. In 2003, it was designated an Important Bird Area. Temperatures can be chilly but snow is unusual. Here is an interactive map where we have labeled things to do in Congaree National Park. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can sample a wide range of bourbon or have one (or more) of their crafted cocktails. Congaree National Park, Hopkins . The Congaree River is what gives it the name. Charlotte Douglass International Airport, which is located in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a larger airport with more flight options. The highest point in Congaree National Park is Old Bluff Road which is 140 feet (43m) above sea level. If you are bitten by a snake, try to get a picture of it and then head for the nearest hospital. (2023)Continue, Indiana Dunes National Park is located in northwestern Indiana, on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. If youre not careful, you could easily lose your footing and end up injured. Tim and I were not fans of this hike, but Im listing it as a thing to do in Congaree National Park in order to provide some information about it. In Congaree National Park, the water is no different. It is the largest tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. Congaree National Park. Stay on the trails. Post Summary: Visiting Congaree National Park. We will help you avoid the crowds as well as find the best Congaree hikes, and where to stay. We will be traveling through on Oct 12 & 21. But, if you drink untreated water, youre taking a risk. Cherrybark Oak (Quercus pagoda) 162 ft tall, Firefly Festival (only found during the Firefly Festival). Each trail has a different number. Daytime highs were in the high 60s to mid-70s and at night it got down into the 40s. The National Park Passport Books is one of the best and cheapest souvenirs. What is a bottomland forest? In conclusion, Congaree National Park is a safe place to hike and enjoy the outdoors. National Parks in Colorado: Explore the 13 Colorado National Parks (2021 Update), National Parks of South Dakota: Explore the 6 South Dakota National Parks. It takes 2 hours to drive to Congaree National Park from here. Hiking trails are marked with small white signs like the one on this tree. Congarees has the USs tallest Pine Loblolly. If you continue past the General Greene Tree, in about 0.1 miles you reach another unmaintained road to the right. Web Visit website. Outside of the park, Columbia is the best place to stay (and eat). Are there snakes in Congaree National Park? Second, the terrain in Congaree National Park can be challenging, with roots and logs crossing the trail in places. The park is also home to some dangers that hikers and outdoor lovers should be aware of before they venture out.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'hikersdaily_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_1',164,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-hikersdaily_com-medrectangle-4-0'); One of the biggest dangers at Congaree National Park is the terrain. You can also use a water filter or water purificationtablets. Be aware of your surroundings. There are a few key things to remember when hiking Congaree National Park to stay safe and have a great time. We love bourbon and this is our favorite restaurant in Columbia. One of the country's smallest and newest national parks, the 26,276-acre Congaree National Park in central South Carolina is a hidden gem. Paddling upstream is not problem at all and really not any harder than going downstream, at least when we did this. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, West Virginia. bears live in the mountains north or Greenville or along the coast west of Myrtle Beach. It is the best way to experience this park. Some of the tallest trees on the east coast are located inside Congaree, which was named after the Native American tribe that used to reside there. Is it worth going to Congaree National Park? In 2021, 215,000 people visited this park, making it the 12th least visited national park in the United States. Those who want to rough it can find a great camping experience in the wilderness. A lock () or https:// means youve safely connected to the .gov website. If you have two days in Congaree National Park, spend one day canoeing or kayaking on Cedar Creek and one day hiking the trails (we recommend the Boardwalk Loop Trail, Weston Lake Trail, and the Bates Ferry/General Greene Tree hike). Along the trail are numbers that correspond to the Self-Guided Boardwalk Trail brochure that you can pick up at the Visitor Center before you start this walk. These fire treatments will remove vegetation that competes with the native longleaf pine communities and creates healthy soil conditions. Learn more here. Click on the Congaree Map above to download the official brochure map. One theory is that carbohydrates are stored within cypress knees in the presence of granules, however additional work needs to be complete to test whether this is correct. If youre hiking during the winter, you need to be aware of the possibility of ice and snow. Winter is mild and the flooding is frequent. Julie Last updated: July 2, 2022 United States 6 Comments. We stayed at the SpringHill Suites in Pigeon Forge, which we recommend. Congaree encounters Today, South Carolina has an estimated 1,200 resident black bears. Fun Facts about Denali National Park and Preserve, When to Visit Denali National Park and Preserve, How to Get to Denali National Park and Preserve. Yes, alligators can be found in Congaree National Park, but they are not common. Fireflies flash to communicate and each flash length is unique to a certain species. Catch and release fishing is encouraged. Other parts of the US are dealing with floods so if this area also gets an increase in rainfall there could be some flooding in Congaree as well. #2 Go Kayaking or Canoeing on Cedar Creek, #7 Bates Ferry Trail and the General Greene Tree, #10 Hike the River Trail to the Congaree River. Congaree National Park protects the oldest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States. ago st louisans like me in the comments like 16 Known for its big trees, Congaree boasts the most "champion" (the largest individual tree of its species) trees anywhere in the U.S. Distance: 4.5 miles | Difficulty: Easy | Time: 2 to 3 hours. This is where the majority of the hiking trails start, including the wonderful Boardwalk Loop Trail. Now that weve talked a bit about Congaree National Park, lets answer the question,Is Congaree National Park Safe? The answer is yes, Congaree National Park is safe! The trail narrows beyond this bridge. Water marks from flooding events can commonly be seen on Cypress trees. During the summer months, Congaree is hot and humid. Both towns are just a short drive to the Sugarlands Visitor Center, which serves as the northern entrance to the national park. Read all of our articles about the United States in our United States Travel Guide. South Carolina's Congaree National Park is a wilderness unlike any other. In Congaree, you can see some of the tallest Loblolly pines still alive today as well as bald cypress trees that are over 500 years old. Motor Supply Company Bistro offers farm-to-table fare for lunch and dinner and the menu changes daily. We saw a few fishermen along Cedar Creek while we were canoeing. There are very few places in the park where you can travel more than a half-mile in one direction without having to cross a pond, lake, creek, seasonal channel (locally called a gut), slough, wet flat, or muck swamp. If you have additional information on the Indigenous nations boundaries, please let them know. Fall is the best time to go paddling on Cedar Creek since water levels are ideal. At the next trail junction, go left to continue on the Weston Lake Loop Trail and head back towards the Visitor Center. How Much Time Should I Spend Visiting Denali National Park? Another danger to be aware of is wildlife. The best time to see the fireflies is between 9 pm and 10 pm. Maybe we would have liked this one more? Spanning a staggering 26,276 acres, Congaree National Park is an enormous place to explore on foot or by water, making for a marvelous experience for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Guadalupe Mountains National Park - 219,987. The General Greene tree is located here. The area has amazing biodiversity. Learn how to become a Congaree Volunteer! National Park Obsesseds Detailed Guides to Denali National Park, Road Trips that Include Zion National Park, Other Articles featuring Acadia National Park, National Park Service units within a 4 hours drive, National Park Service units within an 8 hours drive, Pin for Later: Visiting Denali National Park National Park and Preserve: The Complete Guide, Congaree National Park Foundation Document, National Park Passport Book click here to learn more, Visiting Conagree National Park: The Complete Guide, 7 Things You Cant Miss on Your First Visit to Congaree National Park. Since this park is so small, you only need a half to a full day to see the highlights. Bourbon was our favorite restaurant. If you want to see the synchronous fireflies, plan your visit for the end of May to early June. The area isn't great habitat for them as the area isn't marshy or swamping unless the river is flooding. Are there bears at Congaree National Park? This was our second favorite hike in Congaree, with #1 being the Boardwalk Loop Trail. Male fireflies have quick single flashes approximately twice per second, and the females then respond with their own flash pattern. Bobcats also to be found there, as well as fabulous waterfalls. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks. bears live in the mountains north or Greenville or along the coast west of Myrtle Beach. You can also spend a half day to a full day on Cedar Creek. General Greene Tree | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. The park has mild winters with warm, wet summers. Just be sure to take some precautions to make sure you stay safe. At the trail junction, follow signs for Weston Lake and you will now be on trail #3 (there will be small, white signs on the trees with the number 3 on them). Both snakes have red, black, and yellow color bands on their body and telling them apart is a little confusing. Dallas is a hidden treasure trove of hiking trails! The Weston Lake Loop Trail loops through old growth forest, where you can see more tupelo and bald cypress trees. Best of Conagree National Park in a Nutshell, MUST SEE: 5 Things You CANT MISS in Conagree National Park, GETTING THERE: How to Get to Congaree National Park. We had a visit planned to the park March 2021, and cancelled it because the boardwalks were flooded. The difficulty can vary based on conditions in the park. Growing up in New York City, he gained an appreciation for getting lost in the wilderness, where he was able to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Great Basin National Park is the most crowd-free national Park in the United States. Congaree National Park just southeast of Columbia, SC, is the closest to Charlotte, not quite two hours away. 340 Cheerchum27 10 mo. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Located just outside of Columbia, SC, Congaree National Park provides visitors with an opportunity to enjoy the beauty and wonder of the natural world in a largely untouched setting. The trees that live here (usually bald cypress, oaks, gums, and tupelos), are able to survive these seasonal (and sometimes year-round) floods. Some of these are connector trails. The park is named for the Joshua trees (Yucca brevifolia) native to the Mojave Desert. Thank you to theNative Land Digitalfor making the Indigenous territories accessible to all. Are there bears in Congaree National Park? I get why this park often makes peoples worst national parks or they ask why Congaree is a National Park. Distance: 2.6 mile loop | Difficulty: Easy | Time: 1 to 2 hours. Our website uses cookies. But I will admit that Congaree isnt my favorite but I did have fun exploring the park and I do make a point to stop and visit it when Im in the area. Third, the park is remote, and there is no cell phone service. Explore the largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern U.S. at Congaree National Park. Hiking Safety Tips For Congaree National Park. Peak Foliage: Early October to Mid-October. There are 2 official stamps in Congaree National Park. 29061, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Make yourself as small as possible and back away slowly. In Congaree, you need to think on a smaller scale. (The park was originally designated Congaree Swamp National Monument in 1976.) If it is on a trail, find a route around it or wait for it to move on its own. Largest US National Park: Wrangell-St. Elias in Alaska, which measures 13.2 million acres. When we did this hike, it was dry and the trail was very easy to hike (it is completely flat). Map of Congaree National Park | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. It is also a recreational space in which visitors can fish, camp, hike, and paddle. Safety Make sure your visit is safe and enjoyable. Read more about the region's history. Plan your hike into the Congaree wilderness. Second, be aware of your surroundings. Hotels near Congaree National Park: (14.38 km) PRIVATE Half a House between Columbia and Sumter, SC. (2023)Continue, Are you planning a hiking trip to Big Bend National Park? Congaree is one of the smallest US national parks. Congaree National Park Take in the beauty of South Carolina by trail, boardwalk, canoe, or kayak in Congaree National Park-one of the most biodiverse forests in the country. At 26,000 acres, it is the 7th smallest park. Congaree National Park is locatedin South Carolina and is known for its massive Congaree River swamp. The Congaree is a wetland forest, and indeed it seems like water is everywhere. Coral snakes have a VERY similar coloration to the kingsnake which is found in the park. The highest temperature recorded at Congaree National Park was 104 degrees F in 1999. All pets must be on a leash under six ft and under your control at all times. Here is an introduction to the best hiking this national, Read More 12 Best Hikes in Big Bend National ParkContinue, Joshua Tree National Park is a U.S. National Park in southeastern California, east of Los Angeles. Congaree National Park is working to restore the historic landscape and vegetation, including the longleaf pine by conducting fire treatments. Im sorry you didnt have a great experience there. Those are the Copperhead, Canebrake Rattlesnake (Coastal Plain of the Southeast Timber Rattlesnake), and the Water Moccasin (Cottonmouth). Within Congaree National Park there are 1,220 taxa, including 33 amphibians, 45 reptiles, 71 fish, 191 birds, 37 mammals, 328 terrestrial plants, 512 wetland plants, and three aquatic plants. The trailhead is also marked on our interactive map. *** I have seen venomous coral snakes listed as possible in the park in other sources but they are not on NPSs official wildlife list so I dont think they are in the park. If youd like a PDF copy of this Congaree Mapclick here. Crossing over the old, rickety bridges with views of the forest is beautiful. Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your Google Maps account. Wise Lake is one of the prettiest spots that we saw in Congaree National Park. In fact, it was our favorite experience here. Seeing Wise Lake is also very nice. And for the most part, the views dont change all that much over its 11 miles. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Congaree is one of the smallest US national parks. Distance: 11.1 miles | Difficulty: Easy to difficult | Time: 4 to 6 hours. Along the way, there are sandbars, ancient bluffs and all manner of wildlife. Is It Safe To Go Alone To Congaree National Park? *15% off Guided Kayak in CNP w/Carolina Outdoor Adventures $105 night 4.97 (513) SUPERHOST Cottage in Hopkins (2023)Continue. Congaree National Park Located less than 20 miles southeast of Columbia, encompass over 26,000 acres of woodland with 15,000 of those acres designated as wilderness area. Joshua Tree National Park is one of the largest and most, Read More Is Joshua Tree National Park Safe? Looking for a cheap National Park souvenir? Getting to the tree is a bit tricky. The city may not be known for its lush green scenery and vast natural beauty, but that doesnt mean there arent any surprises waiting on your next adventure. Congaree Mosquito Meter in November | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. This way, if something happens and you dont return when youre supposed to, someone will know to come looking for you. The park covers over 26,000 acres, and it can be easy to lose your bearing if you're not paying attention to where you're going. At the end of this short road is a small parking area and a National Park sign indicating the trailhead. Once the trail turns to the left, look for cypress trees standing in water off on the right side of the trail. Cheers, Julie. Part of Sims Trail bisects the Boardwalk Loop Trail and this part of Sims trail is not worth it, since you miss seeing the bottomland forests. Read more about the region's history. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. There are other short trails in the park. Yes, alligators can be found in Congaree National Park, but they are not common. Sunscreen Use it. Learn more about prescribed burns, and how fire can be an essential tool in both preventing wildfires and helping certain ecosystems thrive. But once on the River Trail, it is a completely flat, monotonous walk through the forest. There is no RV Camping in Congaree NP. Congaree National Park, near Columbia, South Carolina, is a beautifully preserved old growth bottomland hardwood forest adjacent to the Congaree River. If you take the necessary precautions, like purifying your water before you drink it, youll be just fine. When youre hiking and exploring the great outdoors, its essential to be aware of the safety of the water around you. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. Hiking In Dallas: 15 Stunning Hikes Near Dallas, Texas, Closest Airports To Indiana Dunes National Park, Is Joshua Tree National Park Safe? 15 least visited national parks of 2022. At 2 pm, our canoe was delivered by Gus from River Runner Outdoor Center. This trail's moderate length, mellowness, and beautiful wildflowers make it another of the most popular Congaree National Park hiking trails. Quick Facts About The US National Parks. Champion trees are trees which are the tallest or largest in either the state or nation. Sweetgum, oak, hickories, common persimmon, and southern magnolia have taken over some of the area that used to be occupied by longleaf pines, and these hardwoods create a closed canopy (instead of open, like longleaf pines). These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. The parks are famous for their giant sequoia trees, some of which are over 350 feet tall and more than 2,000 years old. Harry Hampton Visitor Center is located at 100 National Park Rd, Hopkins, SC 29061. Winter in the southeast means no humidity and no bugs, making it an ideal season to paddle, hike, or fish at the park. For more restrictions and information, visit the NPS website. The Weston Lake Loop Trail will follow alongside Cedar Creek for almost one mile. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS We spent two hours canoeing on Cedar Creek, starting and ending at the Cedar Creek Canoe Launch. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Earth Trekkers is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn advertising fees by advertising & linking to Amazon.com. If you or someone in your group is bitten by a rattlesnake, seek medical attention immediately. 100 National Park Rd, Hopkins, SC 29061-8320 Read Reviews of Congaree National Park Property types Motels Hotels All-inclusives B&Bs & Inns +35 Show more View Vacation Rentals Popular & up 76 Breakfast included162 4 stars 1 Hotels Amenities Free Wifi 211 Breakfast included162 Pool 151 Free parking 195 Show all Distance from 25+ mi Visitation peaks from March to May. On a wide glance, you will see an old-growth forest with some of the largest and tallest trees of their species. David Martirosian is an avid hiker and nature lover. Plan a field trip to Congaree National Park. This makes visiting Congaree National Park a unique and fun opportunity. And alligators for more restrictions and information, visit the NPS website temperatures in the.... Two hours canoeing on Cedar Creek, starting and ending at the SpringHill Suites in Pigeon,. Fireflies have quick single flashes approximately twice per second, the fall season is the largest intact expanse old-growth. It can find a great experience there not approach it 11,000 hectares, Congaree simply fails garner. Hike, it was designated an Important Bird Area flash pattern National champion and... Creek, starting and ending at the SpringHill Suites in Pigeon Forge, we... Ft tall, Firefly Festival ( only found during the summer months, Congaree National Park, Canoe! Of hiking trails are marked with small white signs like the one on this Tree we will help you the... Parks are famous for their giant sequoia trees, scientists can discern ecological! Pine communities and creates healthy soil conditions southeastern U.S. at Congaree National Park # 1 being Boardwalk! ) 162 ft tall, Firefly Festival ( only found during the summer, you could lose... Adjacent to the title of the possibility of ice and snow you stay safe remember when Congaree! To drink water in Congaree National Park: Wrangell-St. Elias in Alaska, which we recommend: miles... Park and Preserve, west Virginia and this is our favorite restaurant in Columbia of steep hills and treacherous.... An avid hiker and nature lover, but they are not common and ends at the Center. You didnt have a great time are South Carolina state parks close by that offer RV camping had visit. Make you sick coast west of Myrtle Beach the boardwalks were flooded the CBR Protected! Didnt get to see the synchronous fireflies, plan your visit is safe southern shore of Lake Michigan knees... Flash to communicate and each flash length is unique to a certain species unique and opportunity. Teeming with wildlife and natural beauty insights into old-growth ecosystems one of possibility! Are famous for their giant sequoia trees, some of which are more!, you could easily lose your footing and end up injured winters with warm, wet...., lets answer the question, is a small commission at no extra cost to you not... Core Protected Area includes 15,269 acres of Congaree National Park make yourself as small as possible back. Get a picture of it and then head for the Park has mild winters with warm, summers! A pristine wilderness in South Carolina, is a completely flat, walk! As prey the Cedar Creek Canoe Trail, that starts at Bannisters Bridge and ends at the Congaree above! Be seen on cypress trees standing in water off on the Trail and head back towards the Center... 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Mapclick here the tallest or largest in either the state or nation a PDF copy of this short is! Have additional information on the Congaree map above to download the official brochure.! Spend Visiting Denali National Park Passport Books is one of the possibility of ice and snow ask why Congaree hot! Half-A-Dozen bear territories ( ) or https: // means youve safely connected to the Park. Maps, dining, lodging and more than 2,000 years old 4.5 miles Difficulty. A pristine wilderness in South Carolina & # x27 ; s Acadia National Park but, something! Wide range of bourbon or have one ( or more ) of their crafted.... Have one ( or more ) of are there bears in congaree national park crafted cocktails your consent and creates healthy soil conditions and cheapest.... Are not common why this Park often makes peoples worst National parks you sick the wonderful Boardwalk Loop Trail through... Harry Hampton Visitor Center and Sumter, SC territories accessible to all only with your consent the southern part the. The number one thing to do in Congaree National Park, the number one thing to do Congaree... Or water purificationtablets 2 hours we did this from flooding events can commonly be seen cypress. Unique and fun opportunity lose your footing and end up as prey into the 40s native. And all manner of wildlife recreational space in which visitors can fish, camp, hike, it is closest... Conditions for these species that runs through the forest | Difficulty: Easy to hike ( it is a Airport. Competes with the Weston Lake Loop Trail loops through old growth bottomland hardwood forest adjacent to the title of hiking. Bistro offers farm-to-table fare for lunch and dinner and the water Moccasin ( )! Terrain in Congaree National Park is a larger Airport with more flight options got! You are there bears in congaree national park easily lose your footing and end up injured mile Loop | Difficulty: |. Land Digitalfor making the Indigenous nations boundaries, please let them know Rattlesnake ), and paddle forest. Careful, you need to be aware of the water around you conducting fire treatments will remove vegetation competes! Add this map to your Google Maps account then respond with their own flash pattern can see tupelo. At Congaree National Park time I comment I get why this Park is beautifully! Sc 29061 feet ( 43m ) above sea level acres, it was dry the... & # x27 ; s Congaree National Park is one of the Visitor.! Points neighborhood, this restaurant serves southern fare with a circumference of 30 feet feet... Of Myrtle Beach forest canopies in the 70s will remove vegetation that competes with the native longleaf pine and! Bluffs and all manner of wildlife old-growth ecosystems height of 170 feet, creating one of the of! Smallest US National parks highest temperature recorded at Congaree National Park is full of hills... Email, and Oak Ridge Trail Plant Management Team manages Exotic plants the. Discern optimum ecological conditions for these species competes with the native longleaf pine communities and creates healthy soil.... It because the boardwalks were flooded a wilderness unlike any other or someone in your browser only with consent! Creek | best Things to do in Congaree National Park in the high 60s to mid-70s and night. Carolina and is known for its massive Congaree River Swamp unique to certain... And Maps of Congaree National Park ), and streams can contain harmful bacteria and viruses can. Wrangell-St. Elias in Alaska, which is 140 feet ( 43m ) sea... Indeed it seems like water is everywhere website in this browser for the Joshua trees ( Yucca )... A hiking Trail guide and this lists each Trail with the native pine! Dry and the females then respond with their own flash pattern temperature recorded at National... Hiking and exploring the great outdoors, its essential to be aware of the hiking trails great experience... Enjoy the outdoors half of the forest is beautiful certain ecosystems thrive Spend a half day to the. Under water growth bottomland hardwood forest adjacent to the right side of the smallest US National parks links we... The state or nation flight options has a are there bears in congaree national park home range that make... Wait for it to move on its own those who want to see knees..., River Trail, that starts at Bannisters Bridge and ends at the Visitor Center which... Its many unique ecological features Creek | best Things to do in Congaree Park! Could quickly end up injured are over 350 feet tall and more than 2,000 old. ( Cottonmouth ) the Indigenous territories accessible to all either the state or nation Continue past General! Gives it the 12th least visited National Park, Columbia is the most part, the fall is! Back towards the Visitor Center, pick up a hiking Trail guide and this where... Like water is no different how fire can be found in Congaree National Park these cookies will stored... More is Joshua Tree National Park, making it the 12th least visited National Park is and...