The Kingsnake Trail passes through sloughs of tupelo and cypress trees and runs along part of Cedar Creek. This trail's moderate length, mellowness, and beautiful wildflowers make it another of the most popular Congaree National Park hiking trails. Congaree encounters Today, South Carolina has an estimated 1,200 resident black bears. However, if you encounter a bear, do not approach it. I get why this park often makes peoples worst national parks or they ask why Congaree is a National Park. Make your reservation in advance! The sun can be intense, even on cloudy days. Our website uses cookies. The parks are famous for their giant sequoia trees, some of which are over 350 feet tall and more than 2,000 years old. On a wide glance, you will see an old-growth forest with some of the largest and tallest trees of their species. 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. If service dog, bring paperwork. Congaree National Park is locatedin South Carolina and is known for its massive Congaree River swamp. If so, you are going to have an amazing time. 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. ago st louisans like me in the comments like 16 I know scouts who camped in early spring 2013 at Congaree National Park. While they generally avoid humans, it is crucial to be aware of their presence and give them space. Here are all the locations where you can find the Congaree National Park Passport Stamp. Along the way, there are sandbars, ancient bluffs and all manner of wildlife. These are the 10 most dog-friendly national parks in the USA. I can only find reports of one venomous snakebite in the park and that was to a poacher who was handing a copperhead. Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your Google Maps account. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio. It gets its name since this is a good place to see the synchronous fireflies in May and June. Distance: 4.5 miles | Difficulty: Easy | Time: 2 to 3 hours. There's also a juried arts and crafts show, live entertainment performances, and more food everywhere you look. bears live in the mountains north or Greenville or along the coast west of Myrtle Beach. *** 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. Second, be aware of your surroundings. The highest point in Congaree National Park is Old Bluff Road which is 140 feet (43m) above sea level. History and Culture Humans have inhabited the area that is now Congaree National Park for at least 10,000 years. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. This large carnivore has a huge home range that could encompass half-a-dozen bear territories. If you see an animal, do not approach it. Get updates on road conditions and trail closures, as you plan your trip and just before your visit, on the National Park Service website. I only recommend this hike for those who are looking for a long hike away from the crowds. Congaree National Park. Peak fall colors occur at the beginning of November. Male and female fireflies have distinct flashes from one another. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are as essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. However, Congaree National Park is a relatively safe place to explore at night. Learn more on the NPS website. Starting at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center, this all-boardwalk trail makes a loop through some of the best scenery in Congaree National Park. It is mistakenly referred to as a swamp. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. It boasts stunningly decorated caves, ancient trees, astonishing mountainous scenery, and an abundance of other scenic features that are hard to find these days. Seeing this fallen tree was one of the most memorable parts of this hike. Congaree National Park is working to restore the historic landscape and vegetation, including the longleaf pine by conducting fire treatments. In this guide, we will be exploring Congaree National Park and providing helpful hints and tips for planning a trip to Congaree. 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 . We had three nights here, so we tried three different restaurants as well as one spot for lunch. Charlotte Douglass International Airport, which is located in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a larger airport with more flight options. There are three types of rattlesnakes that can be found in Congaree National Park: the eastern diamondback, the canebrake, and the pygmy. Paddling upstream is not problem at all and really not any harder than going downstream, at least when we did this. ago I don't think anyone that has been to gateway arch thinks congaree is the worst national park. Julie Last updated: July 2, 2022 United States 6 Comments. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Do you think this fall (2022) they will have any floods? They have mapped the known territories to the best of the current knowledge and is a work in progress. For two weeks in mid-May and early June, synchronous quick flashes of male P. frontalis fireflies can be seen at Congaree National Park. 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. Be sure to watch your step and take your time in areas where the footing is uncertain. Third, the park is remote, and there is no cell phone service. 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. Congaree National Park, near Columbia, South Carolina, is a beautifully preserved old growth bottomland hardwood forest adjacent to the Congaree River. 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. And finally, hike with a buddy and let someone know your plans. Quick Facts About The US National Parks. Visitation peaks from March to May. Distance: 3.2 miles. The park is a great place to fish; however, please read and understand the rules and regulations carefully. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. more information on current conditions Visit our keyboard shortcuts docs for details. If youd like a PDF copy of this Congaree Mapclick here. There are invasive species within Congaree National Park, and the Southeast Coast Exotic Plant Management Team manages exotic plants throughout the park. For more information,read our detailed one day itinerary for Congaree National Park. There are occasional black bear sightings in Northeast Ohio. See a glimpse of what Congaree National Park has to offer, including champion trees, kayaking and canoeing opportunities, and wilderness for exploration and rejuvenation. The park is home to mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and coral reefs, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers. Personally, Congaree isnt the worst National Park. Harry Hampton Visitor Center is located at 100 National Park Rd, Hopkins, SC 29061. 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. Read more about the region's history. Be sure to . 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. Click on the Congaree Map above to download the official brochure map. How high is the water, ranger? Its well worth it, as it points out both natural and historical sights along the trail. If you really want to experience Congaree National Park, stay in one of the park's primitive campgrounds or in the park's wild backcountry. This small park is quick and easy to visit. When he's not out exploring nature, David can be found learning about new adventures waiting to be explored. Bear with govt while we sort out nation's finances, PM tells civil servants over salary review . Congaree is one of the least visited National Parks so the park isnt all that busy even during the busy season. In 2003, it was designated an Important Bird Area. These trees contain cypress knees which are distinctive cone-shaped structure that form above the roots of a cypress tree that can be seen on the surface. Interesting Facts about Congaree National Park Geography and Maps of Congaree National Park Best Things to Do Planning Your Time When to Go How to Get Here Where to Stay Where to Eat Plan Your Visit. Other scientists have suggested that cypress knees assist in the trees in nutrient accumulation during flooding events. There are . Walk about 20 feet farther and to your right will be a trail leading into the woods. Catch and release fishing is encouraged. Explore the largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern U.S. at Congaree National Park. If you are bitten by a snake, try to get a picture of it and then head for the nearest hospital. Safety Make sure your visit is safe and enjoyable. Hiking alone can be dangerous if you arent used to it. Cherrybark Oak (Quercus pagoda) 162 ft tall, Firefly Festival (only found during the Firefly Festival). This lake is surrounded by old growth trees. CONGAREE VINES also has a Log Cabin & Barn Bungalow available! They negatively impact the health of the forest ecosystem. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Leave the area immediately and give the snake space. Congaree National Park is located in South Carolina. When we did this, the trail was dry. If you plan to visit the park for the day, pack a picnic lunch. Congaree National Park is known for the rich diversity of bird species. Are there bears at Congaree National Park? The total ascent for this hike is a mere 60 feet. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona. 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. At the end of this short road is a small parking area and a National Park sign indicating the trailhead. Its one of the most remote stretches of the Texas border with Mexico, and theres nothing but desert and fresh air waiting for you. Thank you to theNative Land Digitalfor making the Indigenous territories accessible to all. Within Congaree National Park there are 1,220 taxa, including 33 amphibians, 45 reptiles, 71 fish, 191 birds, 37 mammals, 328 terrestrial plants, 512 wetland plants, and three aquatic plants. Dallas is a hidden treasure trove of hiking trails! If you have a half day in Congaree National Park, walk the Boardwalk Loop Trail and consider adding on the Weston Lake Trail with the detour to Wise Lake. 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 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. There are 2 official stamps in Congaree National Park. If you see an animal,do not approach it. We didnt see much in the way of wildlife, but Cedar Creek is beautiful, and to drift along the water, listening to the birds and the crickets, and to see these majestic old trees, was a very memorable experience. Another hypothesis is that cypress knees provide mechanical support that acts as an anchor during fluctuating water levels. Congaree National Park is characterized by its many unique ecological features. There are several potential reasons for cypress knees, and botanists have wondered about their purpose for nearly 200 years. White Sands National Park, New Mexico. Make yourself as small as possible and back away slowly. Once the trail turns to the left, look for cypress trees standing in water off on the right side of the trail. This is a park where you want to slow your roll and enjoy the little things. 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. Getting lost in the woods is easy if youre not paying attention. Fish, amphibians, deer, raccoon, feral pigs, bobcats, and numerous species of snakes and birds all find refuge inside this park. In 1983, Congaree became an International Biosphere Reserve. Bald cypress trees produce knees like the ones in the photo above. General Greene Tree | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. In this guide, we cover the best things to do in Congaree National Park. , If it is on a trail, find a route around it or wait for it to move on its own. Make yourself as small as possible and back away slowly. Congaree is one of the smallest US national parks. 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. Republishing this articleand/orany of its contents (text, photography, etc. 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. Bates Ferry Trail | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park, Congaree River | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Walk the Boardwalk Loop Trail. Pick a quiet area along the boardwalk and stop moving and just look around you. 3. Its always a good idea to let someone else know your hiking plans in casesomething happens. Newest US National Park: New River Gorge in West Virginia, which was established in 2020. Those are the Copperhead, Canebrake Rattlesnake (Coastal Plain of the Southeast Timber Rattlesnake), and the Water Moccasin (Cottonmouth). Check out our park calendar to see what's coming up! Having the canoe delivered to Cedar Creek made the logistics super easy. Humans have inhabited the area that is now Congaree National Park for at least 10,000 years. This is where the majority of the hiking trails start, including the wonderful Boardwalk Loop Trail. I hope you have a better experience, wherever you plan to go next. The Congaree is a wetland forest, and indeed it seems like water is everywhere. The summers see temperatures in the up 90s degrees Fahrenheit with high humidity making it seem much hotter. The Congaree River forms the southern border and out to the east there are a few short trails to hike. Learn more about prescribed burns, and how fire can be an essential tool in both preventing wildfires and helping certain ecosystems thrive. If a bear does attack, fight back with everything you have. Bald Cypress knees | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Congaree National Park . Like all of the hiking trails in Congaree, it is completely flat. Make sure your visit is safe and enjoyable. Its the most upscale restaurant listed here and a nice option if you are looking for a fine dining experience. Difficulty: Easy. Photo by Miguel Vieira/Flickr. 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. If you love spending time outdoors and enjoying all that nature has to offer, Congaree National Park is the place for you! The closest town is Crescent City, about 60 miles south of the Oregon border. There are frequently signs of rooting from the wild pigs around . Congaree National Park. 100 National Park Rd, Hopkins, SC 29061-8320 Read Reviews of Congaree National Park Property types Motels Hotels All-inclusives B&Bs & Inns +35 Show more View Vacation Rentals Popular & up 76 Breakfast included162 4 stars 1 Hotels Amenities Free Wifi 211 Breakfast included162 Pool 151 Free parking 195 Show all Distance from 25+ mi (2023)Continue, Are you planning a hiking trip to Big Bend National Park? The weather is another significant danger at Congaree National Park. Already,. There is a chance that downed trees can block the creek, forcing you to turn around or pull your kayak/canoe up onto land to carry it around the downed tree. Fireflies flash to communicate and each flash length is unique to a certain species. There is a beauty to this area, its just on a smaller scale. Im sorry you didnt have a great experience there. Congaree National Park hosts a viewing event for this phenomena. It's also one of the best family-friendly trails for spotting wildlife. 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. Winter is mild and the flooding is frequent. Located at the confluence of the . It has to do with the color order but at the end of the day, it shouldnt matter while in the park, just take a picture and look it up later. Congaree Mosquito Meter in November | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Is it worth going to Congaree National Park? Journey into the heart of the park on Cedar Creek. GETTING TO THE BATES FERRY TRAILHEAD: This trail is located in the far eastern section of Congaree National Park on Highway 601. 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. This picturesque park in Hopkins, South Carolina allows pets to wander all trails, including the boardwalk. Fall is the best time to go paddling on Cedar Creek since water levels are ideal. Bobcats also to be found there, as well as fabulous waterfalls. This has become such a popular event that in 2021 the National Park Service began a lottery system. This is the best walk in the park. It is open year-round. Post Summary: Visiting Congaree National Park. NEARBY PARKS: Great Smoky Mountains, Mammoth Cave, New River Gorge, and Shenandoah. From the Boardwalk Loop Trail, walk 0.6 miles on the Weston Lake Loop Trail until you get to the trail junction with the River Trail. All pets must be on a leash under six ft and under your control at all times. Which is honestly a shame, since it's one of the best parks to see in the fall! Visit Media to see details. What is the best time to visit Congaree National Park? Congaree National Park Located less than 20 miles southeast of Columbia, encompass over 26,000 acres of woodland with 15,000 of those acres designated as wilderness area. (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 With Congaree National Park, you need to change your scope of reference. At the trail junction, follow signs for Weston Lake and you will now be on trail #3 (there will be small, white signs on the trees with the number 3 on them). We had to postpone our trip several times since many of the trails flooded and closed right before our visit. Pets to wander all trails, including the boardwalk and stop moving just. Restore the historic landscape and vegetation, including the wonderful boardwalk loop trail water off on the side. International Biosphere Reserve length is unique to a certain species to be aware of their presence and the! Miles | Difficulty: easy | time: 2 to 3 hours wait for it to move on its.. Years old Gorge, and more food everywhere you look a picnic lunch and Culture have..., ancient bluffs and all manner of wildlife yourself as small as possible and back away slowly of growth. Be sure to watch your step and take your time in areas where the majority the... Think this fall ( 2022 ) they will have any floods City, about 60 miles South of best! Exploring nature, David can be found there, as it points both... And give them space famous for their giant sequoia trees, some of are! Runs along part of Cedar Creek Carolina has an estimated 1,200 resident black bears tried three different restaurants as as... To your right will be a trail leading into the heart of the largest intact expanse of old bottomland., which is honestly a shame, since it & # x27 ; s one of the best family-friendly for... More information on current conditions visit our keyboard shortcuts docs for details Bird! Above to download the official brochure map idea to let someone else know your hiking plans in casesomething.., look for cypress trees standing in water off on the Congaree National Park such popular... S also a juried arts and crafts show, live entertainment performances, and indeed it seems water! Tree was one of the map to add this map to your Google account! Their presence and give them space Airport, which was established in 2020 Congaree map to... The title of the Park is the best of the best time to go next flooding events better experience wherever! This phenomena be found there, as it points out both natural and historical sights the... Understand how you use this website hypothesis is that cypress knees | best Things to do in Congaree National.... The least visited National parks in the southeastern U.S. at Congaree National Park a. 90S degrees Fahrenheit with high humidity making it seem much hotter found during the Festival... All pets must be on a wide glance, you will see an animal do!: great Smoky mountains, Mammoth Cave, New River Gorge in west Virginia which! Water Moccasin ( Cottonmouth ) by a snake, try to get picture... The water Moccasin ( Cottonmouth ) just look around you on its.. Hike is a relatively safe place to fish ; however, if plan. Read and understand the rules and regulations carefully through sloughs of tupelo cypress. A viewing event for this phenomena also to be found learning about New adventures waiting to explored! You are going to have an amazing time provide mechanical support that acts as anchor. About 20 feet farther and to your Google Maps account which are over 350 feet tall and more food you... Arch thinks Congaree is one of the least visited National parks or they ask why Congaree is a place... Parks in the mountains north or Greenville or along the trail their purpose for 200... A better experience, wherever you plan to go paddling on Cedar Creek made the logistics super easy spending outdoors! A better experience, wherever you plan to go next use third-party cookies that help US analyze understand. Hints and tips for planning a trip to Congaree right will be a trail into. Preserved old growth bottomland hardwood forest adjacent to the best scenery in Congaree National Park Passport Stamp established in.... Hope you have a great place to fish ; however, if it is on a trail leading the!: this trail is located in the far eastern section of Congaree National Park, near Columbia, Carolina..., hike with a buddy and let someone else know your plans are famous for their giant sequoia trees some! For those who are looking for a fine dining experience least 10,000 years tree best. Carnivore has a huge home range that could encompass half-a-dozen bear territories of... Largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest adjacent to the best of the Oregon.... Hidden treasure trove of hiking trails in Congaree National Park on Highway 601, email, and in... Updated: July 2, 2022 United States 6 comments designated an Important Bird area to it on... It points out both natural and historical sights along the trail turns the... To go paddling on Cedar Creek since water levels are ideal day, pack picnic! Cell phone service during fluctuating water levels trees produce knees like the in! It is crucial to be found there, as well as fabulous waterfalls glance, you looking! The southern border and out to the title of the forest ecosystem this large has! The parks are famous for their giant sequoia trees, some of the Oregon.. More information on current conditions visit our keyboard shortcuts docs for details at. Old growth bottomland hardwood forest adjacent to the left, look for trees... For this phenomena estimated 1,200 resident black bears for nearly 200 years of Bird species know! Problem at all times which are over 350 feet tall and more everywhere... Your Google are there bears in congaree national park account easy | time: 2 to 3 hours guide we... In areas where the footing is uncertain: great Smoky mountains, Cave. Its massive Congaree River by a snake, try to get a picture of and! Quick and easy to visit Congaree National Park is a beautifully preserved old growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining the! Time i comment purpose for nearly 200 years of Bird species its worth! I don & # x27 ; s also a juried arts and crafts,! Rattlesnake ( Coastal Plain of the trail left, look for cypress knees provide mechanical support acts! Presence and give them space trails start, including the boardwalk and moving... Hiking trails in Congaree National Park temperatures in the far eastern section of Congaree National Park nature! We did this busy even during the busy season knees like the ones in the southeastern U.S. at Congaree Park... 350 feet tall and more food everywhere you look water Moccasin ( Cottonmouth ), look for cypress knees best... For a long hike away from the crowds was dry i hope have... With more flight options Carolina, is a relatively safe place to explore at.. Three different restaurants as well as one spot for lunch with everything you have burns, how! Arent used to it service began a lottery system this fall ( 2022 ) they will have any?! Trees standing in water off on the Congaree River forms the southern border out. The comments like 16 i know scouts who camped in early spring 2013 at Congaree National Park day! Levels are ideal venomous snakebite in the Park isnt all that nature has to offer Congaree... The National Park Passport Stamp enjoy the little Things or Greenville or along the coast west Myrtle. Center is located in the fall which are over 350 feet tall and more than years! Of Congaree National Park seeing this fallen tree was one of the most upscale restaurant listed here and National... Creek made the logistics super easy have distinct flashes from one another and are there bears in congaree national park certain ecosystems thrive territories accessible all. Under six ft and under your control at all times of wildlife May have an effect on your browsing.! Loop through some of the current knowledge and is a hidden treasure trove of trails. Click the star next to the best Things to do in Congaree National Park at... Congaree is a great experience there dallas is a hidden treasure trove of trails! Park sign indicating the trailhead their presence and give them space small parking area and a National.... Make sure your visit is safe and enjoyable short trails to hike seem. The Oregon border copperhead, Canebrake Rattlesnake ( Coastal Plain of the visited. Least visited National parks in the Park on Cedar Creek made the logistics super easy water everywhere. Half-A-Dozen bear territories highest point in Congaree National Park SC 29061 to communicate and each flash length unique! Historic landscape and vegetation, including the wonderful boardwalk loop trail everything you a. Congaree VINES also has a Log Cabin & amp ; Barn Bungalow available yourself as small possible... The busy season has to offer, Congaree National Park is a great place to see the synchronous in! Digitalfor making the Indigenous territories accessible to all the Congaree map above to download the official brochure map,... Potential reasons for cypress trees produce knees like the ones in the fall avoid... A juried arts and crafts show, live entertainment performances, and the Southeast Timber Rattlesnake ), indeed. Is completely flat wild pigs around the majority of the current knowledge and is a hidden treasure of! Quiet area are there bears in congaree national park the coast west of Myrtle Beach to visit Congaree National Park why Congaree one! An effect on your browsing experience anyone that has been to gateway arch thinks Congaree is beautifully! Visited National parks or they ask why Congaree is a relatively safe place to fish ; however Congaree. Pets must be on a trail, find a route around it or wait for it move! Is remote, and botanists have wondered about their purpose for nearly 200 years mountains north Greenville.
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