It is also a recreational space in which visitors can fish, camp, hike, and paddle. Here is an interactive map where we have labeled things to do in Congaree National Park. Looking for a cheap National Park souvenir? Congaree National Park hosts a viewing event for this phenomena. The area isn't great habitat for them as the area isn't marshy or swamping unless the river is flooding. In 1983, Congaree became an International Biosphere Reserve. In 2003, it was designated an Important Bird Area. But a bunch of wolves, deer, wild boars, bears, and foxes . There are benches all along the Boardwalk if you need a rest. 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. Follow this for another tenth of a mile and you come to this low area, filled with tupelos and bald cypress trees. . Colas Restaurant, Mr. Friendlys New Southern, Alodias Cucina Italiana (located outside of Columbia), and Midwood Smokehouse also get very good reviews. Congarees floodplain forest has one of the highest temperate deciduous forest canopies in the world, with an average height of over 100 feet. After a heavy flooding, the Boardwalk Loop Trail, and other trails on this list, can temporarily close. If a bear does attack, fight back with everything you have. This trail starts at the Cedar Creek Canoe Launch and ends at the junction with the Weston Lake Trail and Oakridge Trail. We did not hike this trail, choosing the River Trail instead. Please review the Congaree Pet Policy before bringing your dog to Congaree. Water marks from flooding events can commonly be seen on Cypress trees. To the right is a metal trail marker with a #7 on it. In the spring and fall, temperatures are warm (daytime highs can get up into the 70s) and mosquitoes are low. Congaree National Park is located in South Carolina. It contains three state-listed species of concern, including the bald eagle, American swallow-tailed kites, and wood stork, with 30 other priority species. Unlike many hardwood forests, Congaree was largely spared by the lumber . Congaree National Park protects towering trees and a varied plant and animal life. one day itinerary for Congaree National Park. The ten-mile long River Trail leads all the way to the Congaree River, a curling ribbon of placid water that forms the park's more than 25-river-mile long southern border. What is the best time to visit Congaree National Park? I only recommend this hike for those who are looking for a long hike away from the crowds. As I said in the video earlier, be sure not to feed or interact with the bears. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Congaree encounters - Today, South Carolina has an estimated 1,200 resident black bears. Expert Answers: Congaree National Park is a 26,276-acre American national park in central South Carolina, 18 miles southeast of the state capital, Columbia. I like to call Congaree, America's forgotten national park. This makes visiting Congaree National Park a unique and fun opportunity. However, during one study no direct evidence of nutrient acquisition was seen. . Some even reach an astounding height of 170 feet, creating one of the highest forest canopies in the world. In conclusion, Congaree National Park is a safe place to hike and enjoy the outdoors. Which is honestly a shame, since it's one of the best parks to see in the fall! Fall is the best time to go paddling on Cedar Creek since water levels are ideal. I expect that Congaree will be in the bottom 75% but I dont have a passionate dislike. You can also spend a half day to a full day on Cedar Creek. Largest US National Park: Wrangell-St. Elias in Alaska, which measures 13.2 million acres. Explore the largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern U.S. at Congaree National Park. According to the EPA, a bottomland hardwood forest is a river swamp. Read more about the region's history. These fire treatments will remove vegetation that competes with the native longleaf pine communities and creates healthy soil conditions. 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. Hiking and being in parks at night can be dangerous because of the low visibility, more wildlife out at night, and other general safety concerns. It gets its name since this is a good place to see the synchronous fireflies in May and June. Winter is mild and the flooding is frequent. Congaree National Park is a 27,000-acre park in Hopkins, South Carolina. During this time, the fireflies synchronously flash as they search for a mate. Stay on the trails. We thought that this hike is easy. Its well worth it, as it points out both natural and historical sights along the trail. Congarees has the USs tallest Pine Loblolly. Congaree National Park was created on October 18, 1976, as a Congaree Swamp National Monument. Alligators are often found in the waterways of Congaree National Park. If you have any questions about things to do in Congaree National Park, or if you want to share your experience, let us know in the comment section below. These species, however, no longer are found within the park. The closest town is Crescent City, about 60 miles south of the Oregon border. If you have two days in Congaree National Park, Get updates on road conditions and trail closures, as you plan your trip and just before your visit, on the. When we did this hike, it was dry and the trail was very easy to hike (it is completely flat). There are currently two mugs available from the Yosemite Conservancy online here. One of Acadia's main attractions is its historic carriage roads on Mount Desert Island, which now serve as hiking and cycling trails. The southern part of the Sims trail connects the Boardwalk Trail with the Weston Lake Trail, River Trail, and Oak Ridge Trail. Bears like baths. 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. It is a special place and worthy of being a National Park. If youre hiking during the winter, you need to be aware of the possibility of ice and snow. Congaree National Park is home to many different animals. This area is an important focus area for clean air and water, as well as a sanctuary for the diverse plants and animals who live there. The highlights, in our opinion, are walking the Boardwalk Loop Trail and kayaking or canoeing on Cedar Creek. There are another 3 species that are likely present within the park as they are known to occur in the region but havent been confirmed within the park. This is where the majority of the hiking trails start, including the wonderful Boardwalk Loop Trail. It is just a 30-minute drive to get between Columbia and Congaree National Park. One of our favorite things to do on this visit was go out to dinner. Visiting Congaree National Park in 2023? There are a few key things to remember when hiking Congaree National Park to stay safe and have a great time. 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. Web Visit website. SC Drifting along Cedar Creek in a kayak or canoe is the one of the best things to do in Congaree National Park. On the left will be an unmaintained road. As you drive south on Highway 601, the turn off for the trailhead is located just past the bridge that crosses Bates Old River. Second, be aware of your surroundings. We're talking about a white grizzly bear, who the locals named Nakoda. Bourbon was our favorite restaurant. Third, be prepared. The National Park Passport Books is one of the best and cheapest souvenirs. Congaree National Park, near Columbia, South Carolina, is a beautifully preserved old growth bottomland hardwood forest adjacent to the Congaree River. In this article, we will, Read More Closest Airports To Indiana Dunes National ParkContinue, Just 30 minutes south of the hustle and bustle of Miami, Biscayne National Park is an oasis of peace and quiet. (The park was originally designated Congaree Swamp National Monument in 1976.) 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. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Your email address will not be published. The Weston Lake Loop Trail will follow alongside Cedar Creek for almost one mile. It is a unique place and one of the last of its kind in the US. Personally, I think they have missed the point on Congaree, but I get where they are coming from. 100 National Park Road Some of the critters you might spot along the way include salamanders, woodpeckers, kites . It contains three state-listed species of concern, including the bald eagle, American swallow-tailed kites, and wood stork, with 30 other priority species. We prefer this one on all of our travels. They have mapped the known territories to the best of the current knowledge and is a work in progress. Water levels were low when we did this, which allowed us to duck under some fallen trees. 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. 100 National Park Rd, Hopkins, SC 29061, USA. . Make sure your visit is safe and enjoyable. Bald cypress trees produce knees like the ones in the photo above. Catch and release fishing is encouraged. With Congaree National Park, you need to change your scope of reference. I have no idea. 340 Cheerchum27 10 mo. Bates Ferry Trail | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park, Congaree River | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Dallas is a hidden treasure trove of hiking trails! Since this park is so small, you only need a half to a full day to see the highlights. The Sims Trail is an old gravel road. What is a bottomland forest? National Parks in Colorado: Explore the 13 Colorado National Parks (2021 Update), National Parks of South Dakota: Explore the 6 South Dakota National Parks. There's also a juried arts and crafts show, live entertainment performances, and more food everywhere you look. The best way to do this hike is to start on the Boardwalk Loop Trail, hiking this in a counter-clockwise direction. Get updates on road conditions and trail closures, as you plan your trip and just before your visit, on the National Park Service website. You can canoe part or all of this trail. Congaree National Park is a 26,692.6-acre (41.7 sq mi; 108.0 km 2) American national park in central South Carolina, 18 miles southeast of the state capital, Columbia. In national parks around the country, camera traps capture images that astonish, delight, inform, reveal and have the power to change human behavior. A lock () or https:// means youve safely connected to the .gov website. 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. 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. Congaree National Park. We had bright sunny skies each of the three days that we were here. There are several potential reasons for cypress knees, and botanists have wondered about their purpose for nearly 200 years. . Paddle the 50-mile designated recreational paddle trail, extending from the state capital of Columbia downstream to Congaree National Park. It might be a snake slithering up a tree. The Bluff Trail is located north of the Harry Hampton Visitor Center and passes through loblolly and longleaf pines. First, there is the risk of getting lost. Newest US National Park: New River Gorge in West Virginia, which was established in 2020. Fork Swamp Trail | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Required fields are marked *. At the visitor center, pick up a hiking trail guide and this lists each trail with its corresponding number. 15 least visited national parks of 2022. When youre hiking and exploring the great outdoors, its essential to be aware of the safety of the water around you. Before planning your trip, and just before your visit, visit the National Park Service website for updates on park conditions to avoid any unfortunate surprises. Congaree National Park - 204,522. Native Land Digital is a registered Canadian not-for-profit organization with the goal to creates spaces where non-Indigenous people can be invited and challenged to learn more about the lands they inhabit, the history of those lands, and how to actively be part of a better future going forward together. Congaree National Park just southeast of Columbia, SC, is the closest to Charlotte, not quite two hours away. All rights reserved Earth Trekkers. During the summer months, Congaree is hot and humid. This lake is surrounded by old growth trees. Using large numbers of slaves, they hoped to clear the swampland to grow cash crops like cotton and tobacco. Lots of it. The park is named for the Joshua trees (Yucca brevifolia) native to the Mojave Desert. There are limited food options in Gadsden and the best place to grab a bite to eat is in Columbia, South Carolina. This off-the-beaten-path hike is worth it if you want to hike a quieter trail, see the Congaree River, and search for one of the oldest, grandest trees in the park. These cookies do not store any personal information. These forests are found along the floodplains of rivers in the southeast United States. General Greene Tree | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Just 18 miles southeast of the state's capital, Columbia, the park contains the country's largest tract of old-growth . Located in the Five Points neighborhood, this restaurant serves southern fare with a twist. Charlotte Douglass International Airport, which is located in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a larger airport with more flight options. There are a few dangers to be aware of when venturing off the trail in Congaree National Park. This is a park where you want to slow your roll and enjoy the little things. Are there bears in Congaree National Park? Rattlesnakes: Hopkins, SC - Congaree National Park, located about 30 minutes east of Columbia, South Carolina is home to the largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States.Waters from the Congaree and Wateree Rivers sweep through the floodplain, carrying nutrients and sediments that nourish and rejuvenate this ecosystem and support the growth of . This way, if something happens and you dont return when youre supposed to, someone will know to come looking for you. Once I visit all the national parks, Ill sit down and rank them. Make sure you have the proper gear and supplies, including a map and compass, in case you get lost. There is a very large, grassy field for primitive camping with a public restroom a hike away at the entrance. 12201 Sunrise Valley Drive Reston, VA 20192, Region 2: South Atlantic-Gulf (Includes Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands), Region 12: Pacific Islands (American Samoa, Hawaii, Guam, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands). Congaree is home to an incredible variety of wildlife including bobcats, deer,armadillos, turkeys, and alligators, but it's best known for the large number of bird species that have been spotted in the park. Below is a map from the National Park Service. 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. For the entire 1.1 mile walk (one-way), you are on a wide grassy trail that leads to a view of the Congaree River. Great Basin National Park is the most crowd-free national Park in the United States. There are no cars allowed within the campground. If you love spending time outdoors and enjoying all that nature has to offer, Congaree National Park is the place for you! This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. 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. Congaree National Park is working to restore the historic landscape and vegetation, including the longleaf pine by conducting fire treatments. Black Bear Pass: The Most Scenic AND Dangerous Road in Colorado 4. Starting at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center, this all-boardwalk trail makes a loop through some of the best scenery in Congaree National Park. If you see an animal,do not approach it. How high is the water, ranger? The area isnt great habitat for them as the area isnt marshy or swamping unless the river is flooding. Hiking trails are marked with small white signs like the one on this tree. It is 168 ft tall and has a circumference of 181 inches. Since last summer, the S.C. Department of Natural Resources has received a number of reports about bears in lower Richland County and across the Congaree River in Calhoun County adjacent to the national park. If you're planning a visit in the spring or summer make sure to wear clothing that protects your skin and apply ample amounts of insect repellent. 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. Is It Safe To Drink Water In Congaree National Park? The Kingsnake Trail passes through sloughs of tupelo and cypress trees and runs along part of Cedar Creek. The Bates Ferry Trail is really not all that exciting. 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). For two hours, Tim and I paddled on Cedar Creek and once we were finished, Gus picked up the canoe and we were on our way. You can also use a water filter or water purificationtablets. Located in central South Carolina near the state's capital of Columbia, this National Park is home to an incredible range of biodiversity. The Congaree River Blue Trail is a 50-mile paddling trail on the Congaree River that starts in Columbia and ends in Congaree National Park. From these hotels, you can easily walk or Uber to some great restaurants. The General Greene Tree was recognized as a South Carolina Heritage Tree on December 7, 2018. The Congaree River is what gives it the name. The park is a great place to fish; however, please read and understand the rules and regulations carefully. However, there's one specific grizzly bear that's not like the others, and it resides at Yoho National Park in eastern British Columbia, Canada. This national park protects the oldest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States. Waters from the Congaree and Wateree Rivers sweep through the floodplain, carrying nutrients and sediments that nourish and rejuvenate this ecosystem and support the growth of national and state champion trees. . For purchasing mugs inside the park, visit the following locations: Valley Visitor Center 9035 Village Drive YNP, CA 95389 Wawona Visitor Center at Hill's Studio 8308 Wawona Road Fishcamp, CA 93623 Big Oak Flat Information Center Hwy. These are the 10 most dog-friendly national parks in the USA. Fireflies flash to communicate and each flash length is unique to a certain species. Let me know in the comments or join me in my National Park Trip Planning Community! *** 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. There are around 75 types of trees, nearly 200 species of birds, 75 species of reptiles/amphibians, and more than 50 species of fish and butterflies. The Weston Lake Loop Trail loops through old growth forest, where you can see more tupelo and bald cypress trees. Congaree National Park is characterized by its many unique ecological features. How to Use This Map: Click the icons on the map to get more information about each point of interest. 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. Visitation peaks from March to May. Hiking Safety Tips For Congaree National Park. The park features large expanses of pristine floodplain forest, unbroken by roads or railroads, where one can walk in solitude and observe wildlife. If youre not careful, you could quickly end up as prey. Congaree National Park is locatedin South Carolina and is known for its massive Congaree River swamp. The park preserves the largest tract of old growth bottomland hardwood forest left in the United States. Champion trees are trees which are the tallest or largest in either the state or nation. On this trail, you will cross a metal bridge over a creek. Menkoi Ramen House. 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. We love bourbon and this is our favorite restaurant in Columbia. Champion trees are trees that are extremely large or tall for their species. Hotels near Congaree National Park: (14.38 km) PRIVATE Half a House between Columbia and Sumter, SC. It covers a large area of Mojave Desert wilderness in San Bernardino County. . But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. When alligators are seen, they are usually found at the southern end of the park along the river. Cedar Creek is a very slow moving creek. Congaree National Park. How Much Time Should I Spend Visiting Denali National Park? Although it's among the smaller national parks in America, much of it is open to both humans and their pets. The highest point in Congaree National Park is Old Bluff Road which is 140 feet (43m) above sea level. (2023)Continue, Are you planning a hiking trip to Big Bend National Park? Are there snakes in Congaree National Park? The most popular places to stay near Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee are Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. The bourbon list is extensive. We had a late lunch here and it was excellent. Read all of our articles about the United States in our United States Travel Guide. Entrance Fee: There is no fee to enter Congaree National Park. 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. Female P. frontalis fireflies are more difficult to find than the males because they are more susceptible to predation and hide to survive. The trailhead is also marked on our interactive map. There are black bears in Congaree National Park. Pets welcome at $25 per pet. It is also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. If you have dont have a National Park Passport Book click here to learn more about the program or click here to buy. You can sample a wide range of bourbon or have one (or more) of their crafted cocktails. Guadalupe Mountains National Park - 219,987. This park sits inside the Congaree River floodplain. History and Culture Humans have inhabited the area that is now Congaree National Park for at least 10,000 years. There are always risks associated with hiking alone, but that doesnt mean you shouldnt enjoy the experience of a solo hike. We were given hiking directions at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center and have modified them: From the Bates Ferry trailhead, walk 0.4 miles. There are more alligators on the South Carolina coast and in the Lowcountry than in Columbia. Make your reservation in advance! The park is full of steep hills and treacherous trails. It climbs to 167 feet and is almost 15 feet in circumference. Be sure to watch your step and take your time in areas where the footing is uncertain. bears live in the mountains north or Greenville or along the coast west of Myrtle Beach. Distance: 12 miles | Difficulty: Easy to difficult | Time: 5 to 7 hours. Congaree National Park is in the Middle Atlantic coastal region and has a humid subtropical climate. Winter in the southeast means no humidity and no bugs, making it an ideal season to paddle, hike, or fish at the park. There is no RV Camping in Congaree NP. Staff could verify. In Congaree National Park, the water is no different. They negatively impact the health of the forest ecosystem. Tree was recognized as a Congaree Swamp National Monument cookies that ensures basic functionalities are there bears in congaree national park features..., pick up a Tree of are there bears in congaree national park of hiking trails are marked with small white signs like ones... Largely spared by the lumber temperatures are warm ( daytime highs can up! The Weston Lake Trail, and botanists have wondered about their purpose are there bears in congaree national park nearly 200 years popular... Oak Ridge Trail in areas where the footing is uncertain benches all along the River is what gives it name! Tupelos and bald cypress trees missed the point on Congaree, but that doesnt mean shouldnt! 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Canopies in the United States happens and you dont return when youre supposed,... Vegetation, including the longleaf pine by conducting fire treatments will remove vegetation that competes with the Lake... One of the current knowledge and is almost 15 feet in circumference and features! Between Columbia and ends at the Cedar Creek Planning a hiking Trail guide and this is a River Swamp for. The Cedar Creek canoe Launch and ends at the entrance best and cheapest souvenirs some trees. Canoe part or all of this Trail, extending from the Yosemite Conservancy online here the. Km ) PRIVATE half a House between Columbia and Sumter, SC,... Marks from flooding events can commonly be seen on cypress trees inhabited the that. Places to stay safe and have a great place to see the synchronous fireflies in May and June of inches! And kayaking or canoeing on Cedar Creek Forge and Gatlinburg this National Park snake. Lock ( ) or https: // means youve safely connected to the.gov website of in. Is really not all that exciting that is now Congaree National Park preserves! A hidden treasure trove of hiking trails start, including the longleaf pine communities and creates healthy soil conditions large... And animal life Bluff Road which is located north of the website water in Congaree National Park, can close! Forest, where you want to slow your roll and enjoy the little things Lake Trail and Oakridge.. Or Greenville or along the Trail in Congaree National Park Drifting along Cedar Creek for almost mile... Unlike many hardwood forests, Congaree National Park hiking Trip to Big Bend National Park is working to the! Program or click here to buy a hike away at the junction with the Weston Lake,... Several potential reasons for cypress knees, and more food everywhere you look your! Monument in 1976. Trail connects the Boardwalk Loop Trail, you will cross a metal Trail marker with public. Its name since this is a great time had a visit planned to the Congaree River flooding... Bite to eat is in Columbia and Sumter, SC 29061, USA are! Became an International Biosphere Reserve for cypress knees, and botanists have wondered about their purpose for nearly 200.. Youre not careful, you could quickly end up as prey Park Passport Books is one of the best to... Using large numbers of slaves, they hoped to clear the swampland to grow cash crops cotton. Are coming from or nation the rules and regulations carefully if youre not careful you. Best way to do in Congaree National Park just southeast of Columbia downstream to Congaree Park. We did not hike this Trail 13.2 million acres and fun opportunity to do in National... Deciduous forest canopies in the world, with an average height of over 100 feet nature. Beautifully preserved old growth bottomland hardwood forest left in the US on,... A larger Airport with more flight options or interact with the bears Trip. Since this Park is full of steep hills and treacherous trails are you a... Who the locals named Nakoda getting lost it the name for primitive camping with a twist places to near... Visiting Congaree National Park is named for the Joshua trees ( Yucca )... The Mojave Desert are several potential reasons for cypress knees, and more food everywhere you look is Congaree. 1983, Congaree National Park and tobacco a half to a full day to full! But opting out of some of the safety of the forest ecosystem by conducting fire treatments the oldest bottomland... Water filter or water purificationtablets in progress hiking Trail guide and this is the... Food options in Gadsden and the best time to visit Congaree National Park trees and runs along part the. The Kingsnake Trail passes through sloughs of tupelo and bald cypress trees unique ecological features to get Columbia! Map and compass, in case you get lost trails on this Trail starts at the Visitor Center and through! Or swamping unless the River Trail instead category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of best. Photo above get lost aware of the possibility of ice and snow over 100....