The Harry Hampton Visitor Center is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, except December 25. During daylight savings time, it stays open until 7:00 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
There is no entrance fee to visit Congaree National Park. It is free for all visitors.
From Columbia, take I-77 North to Exit 5, then follow SC-48 East for 14 miles, immersing yourself in ancient forests and wild beauty.
At Congaree National Park, there are three parking lots outside the Harry Hampton Visitor Center. The first two lots each have two accessible parking spaces for cars. The third lot is for oversized vehicles, including RVs and trailers, with one accessible space. No overnight parking for RVs at Bates Ferry and Fork Swamp Trail. No parking fees. Motorcycles can use regular parking spaces.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Congaree National Park, situated in the heart of South Carolina, is a tapestry of ancient forests, serene waterways, and vibrant wildlife, offering an unparalleled immersive experience for the discerning traveler. This vast expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest, the largest intact in the southeastern United States, is a realm of giant tupelos and bald cypress trees, their knotted trunks rising majestically from the floodplain waters.
The Boardwalk Loop Trail, a 2.6-mile elevated path, weaves through this primeval landscape, providing a wheelchair and stroller accessible route that underscores the park’s commitment to inclusivity. As you walk, the Self-Guided Boardwalk Trail brochure guides you through natural and historical highlights, enhancing the sensory journey.
For those who prefer to explore by water, kayaking or canoeing on Cedar Creek offers a serene glide through the park’s biodiverse heart. The Kingsnake Trail, a 7.8-mile out-and-back hike, is a haven for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike, with its dense vegetation and picturesque views around every bend.
Seasonal changes paint the park in different hues; during the spring, blooming flowers add a kaleidoscope of colors, while summer brings the warmth and humidity that nurture the lush vegetation. Fall introduces a cooling breeze and a palette of autumnal tones, and winter reveals the skeletal beauty of the trees against the misty backdrop.
Special events, such as ranger-led canoe tours and guided walks, enrich the visitor experience. The park’s rich wildlife, including river otters, deer, turtles, and alligators, ensures that every visit is a unique encounter with nature.
Nearby, the charming town of Hopkins offers a blend of local artisan shops and eateries, providing a perfect complement to the natural beauty of Congaree National Park. For those seeking to delve deeper, local outfitters offer equipment and guided tours, ensuring that every traveler can fully immerse themselves in this extraordinary destination. Whether you are drawn to the tranquility of the waterways or the majesty of the ancient forests, Congaree National Park is a place where nature’s splendor awaits around every corner.
- Area (mi²)
- 42
- Annual visitors
- 250 000
- Established year
- 2003
Top 3 Facts about Congaree National Park
The floodplain forest here has one of the highest temperate deciduous forest canopies in the world, with an average height of over 100 feet, making it a unique and towering ecosystem.
In this biodiversity-rich preserve, old-growth bottomland hardwood forests shelter white-tailed deer, wild boars, and bobcats. Wetlands are home to river otters, turtles, and alligators, while bass and catfish inhabit the rivers. With over 206 bird species, including the elusive limpkin and red-cockaded woodpecker, this ecosystem is a haven for avian life. The waters and forests also support 21 snake species, including copperheads and cottonmouths, and a vibrant array of migratory songbirds and wading birds like herons and egrets.
In this ancient alluvial floodplain, towering loblolly pines reach heights of 169 feet, their canopies forming one of the highest temperate deciduous forests in the world. The murky, amber-hued waters of Cedar Creek weave through a 20-mile canoe trail, shaded by cypress trees over 500 years old. Here, the air is thick with biodiversity, and summer evenings ignite with the synchronous flash of fireflies.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit in spring or fall for mild temperatures. Arrive early, park at the visitor center, and hike the Boardwalk Loop Trail. Don’t miss synchronous fireflies in May and June. Bring water, bug spray, and pack meals as options are limited. Anticipate flooded trails and plan rests.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for unpredictable weather, sturdy footwear, and insect repellent. Bring a backpack with water, snacks, map, first aid kit, and a portable charger. For camping, include a tent, sleeping bag, and bear-resistant containers. Check the season for additional gear like warm hats and gloves or a rain jacket.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife – 100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from other animals. Never feed or touch them, and keep trails and habitats undisturbed to preserve natural behaviors. Dispose of trash properly to protect the ecosystem. Respect the environment as you would your own.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, keep a safe distance from wildlife, and check weather and fire alerts. Be cautious near water and ledges. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 803-776-4396.
Seasons
In spring, as temperatures rise to the 70s and 80s, experience the magical synchronized fireflies event in May, a two-week spectacle of flashing lights along the floodplain, amidst mild weather and blooming flora. A must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Summer brings warm temperatures (80s-90s°F) and humid weather, but it’s the perfect time to witness the magical synchronous fireflies in mid-May to mid-June. Experience this unique mating ritual under the stars, a must-see natural spectacle.
Experience autumn’s allure with mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) and fewer crowds. Enjoy the Woodpecker Walk, crisp breezy days, and vibrant foliage in October and November, ideal for hiking and leaf peeping. Dry conditions minimize flooding, making it a perfect time to explore.
From November to February, mild winter days with temperatures in the mid-50s make for ideal hiking and wildlife viewing, despite occasional nighttime dips below freezing. A dry and serene season, perfect for immersing in the floodplain forest’s unique tranquility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Congaree National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Congaree National Park is Columbia, South Carolina, which is about 18 miles away and a 20-minute drive. Columbia is the state capital and is located within Richland County.
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The best hiking trail for kids is the Boardwalk Loop Trail, a 2.4-mile loop that is stroller and wheelchair accessible. It features an elevated boardwalk through an old-growth bottomland hardwood forest with various tree species and benches along the way. This trail is easy and fairly level, making it suitable for kids of all ages.
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Yes, you can take your pet on all the trails as long as they are kept on a leash no more than 6 feet in length and are under your control. Make sure to clean up after your pet and keep them out of the water due to alligators, water moccasins, and snapping turtles.
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Yes, parking is free. There are no paid parking lots, so you can park without any additional cost.
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You can hike the Boardwalk Loop Trail, a 2.6-mile easy loop that takes 1 to 2 hours and offers views of bald cypress and tupelo trees. Other options include the Weston Lake Loop Trail, a 4.7-mile loop that combines boardwalk and more rugged terrain, and the Bates Ferry Trail, a 2.2-mile out-and-back hike to the Congaree River. You can also go canoeing or kayaking on Cedar Creek, birdwatching, and fishing.
