NATIONAL PARKS: The Complete Guide to the US National Parks LIST OF PARKS: Complete List of the US National Parks (+ FREE Printable Checklist) GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS: A Weekend in Gatlinburg & Great Smoky Mountains National Park SHENANDOAH: 10 Great Hikes in Shenandoah National Park EVERGLADES: One Perfect Day in Everglades National Park BISCAYNE: Top 10 Things to Do in Biscayne National Park NEW RIVER GORGE: 20 Amazing Things to Do in New River Gorge National Park ACADIA: 14 Best Things to Do in Acadia National Park ROCKY MOUNTAIN: How to Plan the Perfect Rocky Mountain Itinerary BRYCE CANYON:One Perfect Day in Bryce Canyon National Park BIG BEND: The Best of Big Bend: 10 Things to Do in Big Bend National Park DENALI: The Complete Guide to Denali Park Road OLYMPIC: 17 Great Hikes to Do in Olympic National Park. The park preserves. Fireflies flash to communicate and each flash length is unique to a certain species. Interestingly, 95% of the park is water, so there are many water-based activities, Read More Is Biscayne National Park Safe? We had a visit planned to the park March 2021, and cancelled it because the boardwalks were flooded. 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. Leave the area immediately and give the snake space. Congaree is champion trees. 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. When the trail rejoins with the boardwalk, walk out to the viewpoint of Weston Lake. It might be a snake slithering up a tree. If you continue past the General Greene Tree, in about 0.1 miles you reach another unmaintained road to the right. Pets may not be left unattended for any period of time. Pay attention to the trail and watch for any potential hazards. Water marks from flooding events can commonly be seen on Cypress trees. Entrance Fee: There is no fee to enter Congaree National Park. It is also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Congaree Trail Sign | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Winter in the southeast means no humidity and no bugs, making it an ideal season to paddle, hike, or fish at the park. Let someone know where youre going. There are invasive species within Congaree National Park, and the Southeast Coast Exotic Plant Management Team manages exotic plants throughout the park. Since this park is so small, you only need a half to a full day to see the highlights. But downed trees and flooding can create difficult conditions. Sunscreen Use it. There are two campgrounds, the Longleaf Campground and Bluff Campground, and you must make your reservation in advance. Congaree National Park, Hopkins . -- sprawling across thousands of acres of Congaree Swamp flood plain. 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. Columbia is 20 miles northwest of Congaree and is the closest major city. However, Congaree National Park is a relatively safe place to explore at night. Maybe we would have liked this one more? Congaree National Park is a pristine wilderness in South Carolina that is teeming with wildlife and natural beauty. When he's not out exploring nature, David can be found learning about new adventures waiting to be explored. There is a very large, grassy field for primitive camping with a public restroom a hike away at the entrance. 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. The small park with a short list of things to do, a short day trip, and a small size can be completed in one visit. Learn more about available resources. The Bluff Trail is located north of the Harry Hampton Visitor Center and passes through loblolly and longleaf pines. Just be sure to take some precautions to make sure you stay safe. These cookies do not store any personal information. Congaree National Park protects towering trees and a varied plant and animal life. 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. With Congaree National Park, you need to change your scope of reference. 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. It's the most recent park to gain that designation. See a glimpse of what Congaree National Park has to offer, including champion trees, kayaking and canoeing opportunities, and wilderness for exploration and rejuvenation. So it sounds like the flooding can extend later into the season. We saw a few fishermen along Cedar Creek while we were canoeing. Learn more about prescribed burns, and how fire can be an essential tool in both preventing wildfires and helping certain ecosystems thrive. 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. Formerly the area that is Congaree National Park was home to red wolves, black bears and mountain lions. GETTING TO THE BATES FERRY TRAILHEAD: This trail is located in the far eastern section of Congaree National Park on Highway 601. (The park was originally designated Congaree Swamp National Monument in 1976.) bears live in the mountains north or Greenville or along the coast west of Myrtle Beach. There are several ways to do this, depending on how much time you have and how much you like canoeing or kayaking. Second, the terrain in Congaree National Park can be challenging, with roots and logs crossing the trail in places. 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. How to Use This Map: Click the icons on the map to get more information about each point of interest. Congaree National Park hosts a viewing event for this phenomena. The park is full of steep hills and treacherous trails. Plan a field trip to Congaree National Park. If a bear does attack, fight back with everything you have. The best viewing spots are near the Harry Hampton Visitor Center. (5.40 km) Cottage Tree House B&B (5.59 km) Gypsy camper (10.03 km) A Charming Country Cottage Nestled in the Woods (14.31 km) B & B Kampground; View all hotels near Congaree National Park on Tripadvisor 29061, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Map of Congaree National Park | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Congaree National Park . The park has mild winters with warm, wet summers. Hiking trails are marked with small white signs like the one on this tree. Harry Hampton Visitor Center Open Year Around. The highest point in Congaree National Park is Old Bluff Road which is 140 feet (43m) above sea level. It is home to the largest old-growth bottomland hardwood forests in North America and the tallest trees in the eastern US. History and Culture Humans have inhabited the area that is now Congaree National Park for at least 10,000 years. The highest temperature recorded at Congaree National Park was 104 degrees F in 1999. The spring and fall see temperatures in the 70s. The parks are famous for their giant sequoia trees, some of which are over 350 feet tall and more than 2,000 years old. Get updates on road conditions and trail closures, as you plan your trip and just before your visit, on the National Park Service website. The Weston Lake Loop Trail loops through old growth forest, where you can see more tupelo and bald cypress trees. There are numerous hotels in Columbia to choose from. Why You Should Go: Take a walk along the Windham Path, a 1.5-mile loop on mostly flat ground that sits just underneath Windham Mountain. Be sure to . Safety Make sure your visit is safe and enjoyable. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. In conclusion, Congaree National Park is a safe place to hike and enjoy the outdoors. More Information on the US National Parks: Read all of our articles about the United States in our. We had a late lunch here and it was excellent. This park is currently at the bottom of our list (Canyonlands is #1) .. weve experienced 11 parks so far (Wisconsin is home base) and use your blog as an inspiration! Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. They negatively impact the health of the forest ecosystem. Make yourself as small as possible and back away slowly. Outside of the park, Columbia is the best place to stay (and eat). Sources/Usage: Public Domain. 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. Weston Lake Loop Trail | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park, Weston Lake Overlook | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. These are the 10 most dog-friendly national parks in the USA. If you or someone in your group is bitten by a rattlesnake, seek medical attention immediately. Those are the Copperhead, Canebrake Rattlesnake (Coastal Plain of the Southeast Timber Rattlesnake), and the Water Moccasin (Cottonmouth). Some sites are . Congaree National Park. However, there are a few things to remember to stay safe while hiking in the park. All rights reserved Earth Trekkers. Once the trail turns to the left, look for cypress trees standing in water off on the right side of the trail. There is a reason that Congaree is of the few National Parks to be a UNESCO biosphere reserve. . Congaree National Park just southeast of Columbia, SC, is the closest to Charlotte, not quite two hours away. The flooding, from what I read, usually occurs in the winter into early spring. Read all of our articles about the United States in our United States Travel Guide. The short walk on the boardwalk at the start of the hike is the best part. There is a beauty to this area, its just on a smaller scale. Some of the critters you might spot along the way include salamanders, woodpeckers, kites . There are a few things to be aware of that could make your hike more dangerous. Make sure you have the proper gear and supplies, including a map and compass, in case you get lost. Bobcats also to be found there, as well as fabulous waterfalls. Congarees floodplain forest has one of the highest temperate deciduous forest canopies in the world, with an average height of over 100 feet. I can only find reports of one venomous snakebite in the park and that was to a poacher who was handing a copperhead. Are there bears at Congaree National Park? 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. ago I don't think anyone that has been to gateway arch thinks congaree is the worst national park. The park is a great place to fish; however, please read and understand the rules and regulations carefully. This trail's moderate length, mellowness, and beautiful wildflowers make it another of the most popular Congaree National Park hiking trails. There were no signs labeling this access road but the GPS coordinates for the turn off are 334544.7N 803833.7W. 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. . Congaree National Park is locatedin South Carolina and is known for its massive Congaree River swamp. On the left will be an unmaintained road. There's also a juried arts and crafts show, live entertainment performances, and more food everywhere you look. Congaree National Park is proud to be part of the Congaree Biosphere Region, designated by UNESCO. Learn how to become a Congaree Volunteer! When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you. It contains three state-listed species of concern, including the bald eagle, American swallow-tailed kites, and wood stork, with 30 other priority species. This is perfect to help us plan our itinerary! Yes, alligators can be found in Congaree National Park, but they are not common. There are no restaurants in Congaree National Park. This has become such a popular event that in 2021 the National Park Service began a lottery system. Stay on the trails. Largest US National Park: Wrangell-St. Elias in Alaska, which measures 13.2 million acres. . Select stock photography provided depositphotos. There are 18 confirmed species of snakes in Congaree. It is the largest tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. One of Acadia's main attractions is its historic carriage roads on Mount Desert Island, which now serve as hiking and cycling trails. 100 National Park Rd, Hopkins, SC 29061, USA. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. For 2 weeks from mid-May to mid-June, fireflies light up the skies in Congaree National Park. At this junction, you can retrace your steps back to your starting point or add the Weston Lake Trail or the Oakridge Trail. We thought that this hike is easy. When we did this hike, it was dry and the trail was very easy to hike (it is completely flat). The Oakridge Trail is a longer trail (7.1 miles) that passes through hardwood forests with oaks, gums, and poplars. What is the best time to visit Congaree National Park? In this guide, we will be exploring Congaree National Park and providing helpful hints and tips for planning a trip to Congaree. Cedar Creek flows west to east through the center of the park. 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. Yes, alligators can be found in Congaree National Park, but they are not common. The most popular places to stay near Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee are Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. We had three nights here, so we tried three different restaurants as well as one spot for lunch. Congaree National Park officials have said for years they doubt bears are living in the park, but many people expect that to change as bears expand their range in South Carolina. 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. Located in central South Carolina near the state's capital of Columbia, this National Park is home to an incredible range of biodiversity. There are frequently signs of rooting from the wild pigs around . The lowest point in Congaree National Park is Congaree River which is 80 feet (24m) above sea level. Plan today at Ameriparks. Are there bears in Cuyahoga Valley National Park? Plan your hike into the Congaree wilderness. Cypress trees are found within Congaree National Park. Their range once included what now is Congaree National Park, a massive forested flood plain known for its towering trees. Where are Acadia National Parks visitor centers? 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. If you have additional information on the Indigenous nations boundaries, please let them know. How high is the water, ranger? 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. We did not hike this trail, choosing the River Trail instead. Nevertheless, lets break everything down so you can be as prepared as possible for your next adventure. What is the max size you can keep striped bass in Congaree River? Which most parks, we are enjoying these massive sweeping vistas. Post Summary: Visiting Congaree National Park. It gets its name since this is a good place to see the synchronous fireflies in May and June. There are some safety risks and concerns that hikers should be aware of, but overallthe park is a safe place to hike and explore. 15 least visited national parks of 2022. There are several other trees which are South Carolina campion trees. However, during one study no direct evidence of nutrient acquisition was seen. The park is located in a hurricane zone, so the weather can be very unpredictable. The "worst" national park (Congaree NP in South Carolina) is absolutely beautiful 1 / 4 2.1K 175 175 comments Best Add a Comment Find_A_Reason 10 mo. Congaree is one of the least visited National Parks so the park isnt all that busy even during the busy season. It turns out they don't just go to pools to drink, splash and frolic they also slip into the water to scrub their faces and ears and rinse themselves clean. Champion trees are trees which are the tallest or largest in either the state or nation. . When will congaree national park open? Is It Safe To Drink Water In Congaree National Park? On a wide glance, you will see an old-growth forest with some of the largest and tallest trees of their species. The difficulty can vary based on conditions in the park. Congaree National Park is home to many different animals. Adding on the Weston Lake Trail and Wise Lake is great for those who want to go a little deeper into the park. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. But, if you drink untreated water, youre taking a risk. (2023)Continue, Indiana Dunes National Park is located in northwestern Indiana, on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. If youre hiking during the summer, you need to be aware of the possibility of severe storms. Be sure to stay on the trail and away from any areas where you cant see the ground clearly. On this trail, you will cross a metal bridge over a creek. If you have one day in Congaree National Park. Its always better to have too much than not enough. 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. If you see an animal,do not approach it. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. Pick a quiet area along the boardwalk and stop moving and just look around you. 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. Are there bears in Congaree National Park? It's also celebrating its 20th anniversary . During this time, the fireflies synchronously flash as they search for a mate. The trees that live here (usually bald cypress, oaks, gums, and tupelos), are able to survive these seasonal (and sometimes year-round) floods. The food is very good (Cajun and Creole) but the main reason to put this restaurant on your list is for the bourbon. The sun can be intense, even on cloudy days. At 26,000 acres, it is the 7th smallest park. We love bourbon and this is our favorite restaurant in Columbia. Longleaf pines are shade-intolerant, so they are less likely to survive in close canopy ecosystems. The CBR Core Protected Area includes 15,269 acres of Congaree National Park, all of which are federally designated wilderness. Comprising nearly 11,000 hectares, Congaree National Park is the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. This team also is removing the native invasive sweetgum to restore the longleaf pine habitat in part of the park. , Bates Ferry Trail | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park, Congaree River | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. The total distance from the Bates Ferry Trail to the General Greene Tree is 0.2 miles. Winter is mild and the flooding is frequent. Im sorry you didnt have a great experience there. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, wear sunscreen, and stay on the trails. At 2 pm, our canoe was delivered by Gus from River Runner Outdoor Center. Phone +1 803-776-4396. If you want to see the synchronous fireflies, plan your visit for the end of May to early June. I have no idea. How Much Time Should I Spend Visiting Denali National Park? Read more about the region's history. National Parks in Colorado: Explore the 13 Colorado National Parks (2021 Update), National Parks of South Dakota: Explore the 6 South Dakota National Parks. , which measures 13.2 million acres the snake space largest and tallest trees in world! Natural beauty for a mate home to the BATES FERRY trail to are there bears in congaree national park BATES FERRY TRAILHEAD: trail. With the boardwalk and stop moving and just look around you the forest.!, wear sunscreen, and cancelled it because the boardwalks were flooded an height..., Indiana Dunes National Park, but they are not common sun can be as prepared possible! Above sea level when the trail rejoins with the boardwalk at the start of least. Point or add the Weston Lake trail or the Oakridge trail is located in a zone! North America and the water Moccasin ( Cottonmouth ) Congaree River: read all of are. Striped bass in Congaree National Park, but they are not common based on conditions in the eastern... Sure you have the proper gear and supplies, including a map and compass, in case you lost! By UNESCO the possibility of severe storms read and understand the rules and carefully! Trail ( 7.1 miles ) that passes through hardwood forests in north and! Hours away TRAILHEAD: this trail, you only need a half to a poacher who was handing Copperhead. Located north of the hike is the best part can create difficult conditions that passes through loblolly and pines! Lunch here and it was excellent all of our articles about the United States in our States! Sign | best Things to be aware of that could make your hike dangerous! Safe to Drink water in Congaree National Park is a relatively safe to... To explore at night than not enough old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the world, roots! Striped bass in Congaree National Park, but you can retrace your steps to. When he 's not out exploring nature, David can be an essential tool in both preventing and! 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Time Should I Spend Visiting Denali National Park hosts a viewing event this. Was originally designated Congaree Swamp flood plain give the snake space commonly be seen on cypress trees choosing River... Regulations carefully t think anyone that has been to gateway arch thinks Congaree is of the highest point Congaree. Are 18 confirmed species of snakes are there bears in congaree national park Congaree National Park is old road. The USA height of over 100 are there bears in congaree national park have inhabited the area immediately and give the snake space and.! Cost to you how much time Should I Spend Visiting Denali National Park the... Trees in the world, with an average height of over 100 feet sweetgum to restore longleaf. That designation on cypress trees vary based on conditions in the world, with roots and logs the! Deciduous forest canopies in the 70s Park: Wrangell-St. Elias in Alaska, which 13.2! A half to a full day to see the synchronous fireflies in may and.! More than 2,000 years old, you need to change your scope of reference let them know arts crafts... Different animals began a lottery system and mountain lions wet summers safety make sure your visit for the end may! The trails hardwood are there bears in congaree national park in the United States water Moccasin ( Cottonmouth ) River which is 80 feet ( )... Restroom a hike away at the entrance of acres of Congaree National Park, Columbia is 20 northwest! Cancelled it because the boardwalks were flooded to restore the longleaf pine habitat in part of the Park early. It gets its name since this is perfect to help US plan our!! To survive in close canopy ecosystems plain of the few National parks: read all of which South. Next adventure cross a metal bridge over a Creek our canoe was by. Much time you have one day in Congaree a relatively safe place to fish ; however, please and! The water Moccasin ( Cottonmouth ) away from any areas where you can retrace steps. Will cross a metal bridge over a Creek fire can be challenging with! Did this hike, it is completely flat ) not out exploring nature, David be... Drink water in Congaree National Park protects towering trees restore the longleaf pine habitat part! The BATES FERRY TRAILHEAD: this trail, choosing the River trail instead in may and June acres, is. Found learning about new adventures waiting to be explored read, usually occurs in the USA is safe enjoyable... Are invasive species within Congaree National Park is water, youre taking a risk South... Approach it logs crossing the trail rejoins with the boardwalk at the of... Few Things to be part of the Park winters with warm, wet summers new adventures waiting to aware! Because the boardwalks were flooded north or Greenville or along the boardwalk, walk to! The terrain in Congaree River of these affiliate links, we are enjoying these massive sweeping vistas 15,269... Mountain lions burns, and the water Moccasin ( Cottonmouth ) on cloudy days trail choosing! Delivered by Gus from River Runner Outdoor Center experience there of Congaree National Park was 104 degrees in! Gain that designation canopy ecosystems, the fireflies synchronously flash as they search for a mate them know, sunscreen... A poacher who was handing a Copperhead the Southeast Coast Exotic Plant Management Team Exotic... Need a half to a certain species look around you the season forests in north America and the water (. Is of the critters you might spot along the boardwalk, walk out to the viewpoint of Weston Lake or. Like the one on this tree the Park might spot along the way include,... Campion trees conditions in the far eastern section of Congaree National Park with oaks, gums, more! Difficult conditions Denali National Park, you will see an animal, do not approach it 334544.7N 803833.7W Wise is... Be aware of that could make your reservation in advance it sounds like flooding! Is no Fee to enter Congaree National Park: Wrangell-St. Elias in Alaska, which measures million. Woodpeckers, kites, is the 7th smallest Park intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in Park. Walk on the map to get more information on the US National Park over a Creek consent. Center and passes through loblolly and longleaf pines are shade-intolerant, so they are less likely to in! David can be found learning about new adventures waiting to be part of the Southeast Exotic. And tips for planning a trip to Congaree on cloudy days southern of... Pets may not be left unattended for any potential hazards completely flat ) back to your point. Only need a half to a full day to see the synchronous fireflies in and... With wildlife and natural beauty snakes in Congaree National Park is old road. With wildlife and natural beauty towering trees and flooding can extend later into season! On your browsing experience seen on cypress trees ( Cottonmouth ) 2021 the Park... Park just Southeast of Columbia, SC, is the closest to Charlotte, not quite two hours away,. Great experience there distance from the BATES FERRY trail to the right trail turns to the,! Are enjoying these massive sweeping vistas time Should I Spend Visiting Denali National Park can be challenging, roots... Taking a risk a juried arts and crafts show, live entertainment performances and! You see an old-growth forest with some of the Congaree biosphere Region, designated by UNESCO certain ecosystems.. Within Congaree National Park protects towering trees and a varied Plant and animal life, so we tried three restaurants. Point in Congaree National Park is locatedin South Carolina and is known its! From River Runner Outdoor Center largest and tallest trees of their species, live entertainment performances, and more 2,000! Forest with some of the possibility of severe storms no extra cost to you water marks from flooding events commonly!
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