There are . Yes, pets are welcome in Congaree National Park and are allowed on the trails. 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. Located in central South Carolina near the state's capital of Columbia, this National Park is home to an incredible range of biodiversity. A lock () or https:// means youve safely connected to the .gov website. Congaree officially became a national park on November 10, 2003. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks. NEARBY PARKS: Great Smoky Mountains, Mammoth Cave, New River Gorge, and Shenandoah. 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. Joshua Tree National Park is one of the largest and most, Read More Is Joshua Tree National Park Safe? The park features large expanses of pristine floodplain forest, unbroken by roads or railroads, where one can walk in solitude and observe wildlife. Park Size: 26,276acres (41.06 sq miles) (106.34 sq km). Cedar Creek is a very slow moving creek. How high is the water, ranger? We had three nights here, so we tried three different restaurants as well as one spot for lunch. The park preserves the largest tract of old growth bottomland hardwood forest left in the United States. We spent two hours canoeing on Cedar Creek, starting and ending at the Cedar Creek Canoe Launch. Get updates on road conditions and trail closures, as you plan your trip and just before your visit, on the National Park Service website. Female P. frontalis fireflies are more difficult to find than the males because they are more susceptible to predation and hide to survive. Not quite a swamp but also unlike any mountain forest you've ever seen, Congaree National Park is a unique park. While they generally avoid humans, it is crucial to be aware of their presence and give them space. Daytime highs were in the high 60s to mid-70s and at night it got down into the 40s. I vaguely recollect a small camping area at the parking lot for those not wishing to hike in. Male and female fireflies have distinct flashes from one another. During the summer months, Congaree is hot and humid. . These cookies do not store any personal information. 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. At the end of this short road is a small parking area and a National Park sign indicating the trailhead. In 1983, Congaree became an International Biosphere Reserve. Which most parks, we are enjoying these massive sweeping vistas. Bourbon was our favorite restaurant. In order to go fishing in the park, you must have a valid South Carolina fishing license. ago st louisans like me in the comments like 16 When youre hiking and exploring the great outdoors, its essential to be aware of the safety of the water around you. This way, if something happens and you dont return when youre supposed to, someone will know to come looking for you. Some even reach an astounding height of 170 feet, creating one of the highest forest canopies in the world. We had a visit planned to the park March 2021, and cancelled it because the boardwalks were flooded. 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. 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. As you drive south on Highway 601, the turn off for the trailhead is located just past the bridge that crosses Bates Old River. The area isn't great habitat for them as the area isn't marshy or swamping unless the river is flooding. Check . CONGAREE VINES also has a Log Cabin & Barn Bungalow available! They negatively impact the health of the forest ecosystem. The most popular places to stay near Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee are Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Paddling upstream is not problem at all and really not any harder than going downstream, at least when we did this. It is mistakenly referred to as a swamp. Congaree National Park, Hopkins . At 2 pm, our canoe was delivered by Gus from River Runner Outdoor Center. Largest US National Park: Wrangell-St. Elias in Alaska, which measures 13.2 million acres. 29061, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Congaree is champion trees. Learn more about available resources. Wise Lake is located near the trail junction for the Weston Lake Loop Trail and River Trail. These tablets are easy to carry with you on your hike and only requireadding them to the water and waiting a few minutes for them to work. See a glimpse of what Congaree National Park has to offer, including champion trees, kayaking and canoeing opportunities, and wilderness for exploration and rejuvenation. Make sure you have the proper gear and supplies, including a map and compass, in case you get lost. Pinnacles National Park - 275,023. Stay on the trails. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Distance: 3.2 miles. Is it worth going to Congaree National Park? 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. Let me know in the comments or join me in my National Park Trip Planning Community! Congaree National Park. There are South Carolina State Parks close by that offer RV camping. At this junction, you can retrace your steps back to your starting point or add the Weston Lake Trail or the Oakridge Trail. 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. In Congaree National Park, the water is no different. Congaree National Park does not charge an entrance fee. Third, the park is remote, and there is no cell phone service. Acadia National Park, Maine. Congaree National Park. Here are some tips for staying safe while enjoying the park after dark: Following these safety tips will help you have a safe and enjoyable experience while exploring Congaree National Park at night. 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. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you. Comprising nearly 11,000 hectares, Congaree National Park is the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. 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. . Having the canoe delivered to Cedar Creek made the logistics super easy. But once on the River Trail, it is a completely flat, monotonous walk through the forest. Located in the Five Points neighborhood, this restaurant serves southern fare with a twist. Candid Cameras. Menkoi Ramen House. , 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 Bates Ferry Trail is really not all that exciting. Welcome to the Congaree National Park - the largest national park of virgin bottomland forest in the whole of the United States. It might an otter swimming in the river. Make yourself as small as possible and back away slowly. If youd like a PDF copy of this Congaree Mapclick here. Are there bears in Congaree? 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). Learn more about the CBR. Spread over a whopping 26,000 acres of land on the low-lying floodplains of South Carolina, it's a strange and unique place. Congaree National Park protects the oldest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States. Now, lets talk about Congaree National Park specifically. Getting lost in the woods is easy if youre not paying attention. 100 National Park Rd, Hopkins, SC 29061, USA. Their range once included what now is Congaree National Park, a massive forested flood plain known for its towering trees. Third, be prepared. Columbia is 20 miles northwest of Congaree and is the closest major city. Is Congaree National Park Safe? Bald Cypress knees | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Fall is the best time to go paddling on Cedar Creek since water levels are ideal. Read all of our articles about the United States in our United States Travel Guide. Congaree National Park elevated boardwalk trail. Its a beautiful part of Congaree National Park. Humans have inhabited the area that is now Congaree National Park for at least 10,000 years. For two weeks in mid-May and early June, synchronous quick flashes of male P. frontalis fireflies can be seen at Congaree National Park. History and Culture Humans have inhabited the area that is now Congaree National Park for at least 10,000 years. Their function is not totally understood but these knees are thought to give the trees extra support. Quick Facts About The US National Parks. If you encounter a rattlesnake, do not try to capture it or kill it. Yes, alligators can be found in Congaree National Park, but they are not common. Its always best to hike with at least one other person. And for the most part, the views dont change all that much over its 11 miles. It is just a 30-minute drive to get between Columbia and Congaree National Park. It is the remains of an old ferry road that ended at the Congaree River. It covers an area of 26,276 acres and is known for its stunning views, deep canyons, and unique geological formations. Its nice but we liked the Boardwalk Trail more. Congaree is one of the smallest US national parks. There is a reason that Congaree is of the few National Parks to be a UNESCO biosphere reserve. (The park was originally designated Congaree Swamp National Monument in 1976.) Some of these are connector trails. 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 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. Plan today at Ameriparks. When we did this hike, it was dry and the trail was very easy to hike (it is completely flat). Great Basin National Park is the most crowd-free national Park in the United States. 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. "We're a globally important bird area," says Ranger Jon Manchester. Flooding tends to occur during the winter months. It is the largest tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. We had bright sunny skies each of the three days that we were here. I can only find reports of one venomous snakebite in the park and that was to a poacher who was handing a copperhead. Pets welcome at $25 per pet. Congaree National Park is dog-friendly. 340 Cheerchum27 10 mo. But Im just one National Park Obsessed person and I think the worst National Park is Gateway Arch. Another hypothesis is that cypress knees provide mechanical support that acts as an anchor during fluctuating water levels. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. We had a late lunch here and it was excellent. We will be traveling through on Oct 12 & 21. However there are several airports within a reasonable distance that you can use to fly into the area. Here are a few of the common animals that you may encounter while exploring the park: That said, while most of the wildlife in Congaree National Park is harmless, there are a few animals that you should be aware of. Catch and release fishing is encouraged. This is perfect to help us plan our itinerary! The Kingsnake Trail passes through sloughs of tupelo and cypress trees and runs along part of Cedar Creek. The total distance from the Bates Ferry Trail to the General Greene Tree is 0.2 miles. The parks are famous for their giant sequoia trees, some of which are over 350 feet tall and more than 2,000 years old. 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. For more ideas on canoe trips, visit the National Park Service website. In fact, it was our favorite experience here. Many of the bears are believed to have traveled from Pennsylvania or New York, and may return there at the end of the summer. 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. With Congaree National Park, you need to change your scope of reference. This is where the majority of the hiking trails start, including the wonderful Boardwalk Loop Trail. If a bear does attack, fight back with everything you have. The General Greene tree is located here. The National Champion Loblolly Pine is located in Congaree. The Congaree is a wetland forest, and indeed it seems like water is everywhere. In this guide, we cover the best things to do in Congaree National Park. Each trail has a different number. -- sprawling across thousands of acres of Congaree Swamp flood plain. The sun can be intense, even on cloudy days. Journey into the heart of the park on Cedar Creek. However, if you encounter a bear, do not approach it. Keep looking and you will start to notice smaller details and see the wildlife. If you have a half day in Congaree National Park. 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. Lots of it. This is where the majority of the hiking trails start, including the wonderful Boardwalk Loop Trail. Maine's Acadia National Park is one of the best national parks for dogs for a few reasons. The Weston Lake Loop Trail will follow alongside Cedar Creek for almost one mile. 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. Make sure your visit is safe and enjoyable. 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 might be a deer silently moving in the woods. Learn more here. Cedar Creek flows west to east through the center of the park. Here is an interactive map where we have labeled things to do in Congaree National Park. There are three types of rattlesnakes that can be found in Congaree National Park: the eastern diamondback, the canebrake, and the pygmy. 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). Camping is also permitted in the high-ground section of the park, where an actual campground . There is no RV Camping in Congaree NP. 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. 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). Rattlesnakes: This is a park where you want to slow your roll and enjoy the little things. Your email address will not be published. Maybe we would have liked this one more? Your email address will not be published. Congaree National Park, near Columbia, South Carolina, is a beautifully preserved old growth bottomland hardwood forest adjacent to the Congaree River. 120, North West Entrance Last Update: Jan 03, 2023. . Walk the Boardwalk Loop Trail. While the park is easily accessible by car, it does not have its own airport. It is a unique place and one of the last of its kind in the US. If it is on a trail, find a route around it or wait for it to move on its own. Outside of the park, Columbia is the best place to stay (and eat). 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