Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park protects the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States. Floodwaters from the Congaree and Wateree rivers carry nutrients and sediment into the floodplain, supporting an exceptionally diverse forest that includes towering national- and state-champion trees. Although sometimes mistaken for a swamp, much of Congaree is a seasonally flooded forest shaped by moving river water.

The Boardwalk Trail provides an approachable introduction to the park’s forest, wetlands, and waterways. The approximately 2.6-mile loop begins near the Harry Hampton Visitor Center and passes through areas that may otherwise be difficult to reach during wet conditions. Interpretive information along the route explains the forest’s ecology, natural history, and cultural importance, while connections lead toward Weston Lake and longer wilderness trails.

Hikers can explore more than 25 miles of trails ranging from short forest walks to longer backcountry routes. Paddling offers another perspective, with the marked Cedar Creek Canoe Trail winding beneath a canopy of bald cypress, water tupelo, and hardwood trees. Visitors must generally bring or obtain their own canoe or kayak, and paddlers should check water levels, currents, fallen trees, and trail conditions before launching.

Birdwatching, fishing, wildlife observation, camping, photography, and ranger-led programs provide additional ways to experience Congaree. Visitors may encounter deer, river otters, turtles, wild turkeys, barred owls, alligators, and numerous songbirds. Primitive campgrounds and permitted backcountry camping allow visitors to spend the night within the forest, while ranger and volunteer programs explore the park’s ecology and human history when staffing allows.

Flooding is a natural and essential part of Congaree, but it can make backcountry trails, canoe routes, and portions of the boardwalk inaccessible. Conditions may change quickly following rainfall upstream, so visitors should review water levels and park alerts immediately before arriving. Heat, humidity, mosquitoes, muddy trails, limited backcountry navigation markers, and fallen trees should also be considered when preparing for a visit.