View of the Congaree River during the Fall
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26 Activities

Congaree National Park

SC

Park Alerts (6)

Prescribed Burn: A prescribed burn was conducted in the park uplands 6/11-6/12. Smoke and some burning logs may still be seen.
Being Prepared for Excessive Heat & Humidity: Congaree can be hot & humid from late spring through early fall. Be sure that you & your party (including pets) have adequate water & choose activities that fit your level of physical fitness. Conside...
Paddling Conditions: Trees down across Cedar Creek between Bannister's Bridge and South Cedar Creek may require significant portages depending on water levels & paddlers should plan accordingly. All paddlers should have n...

About Congaree National Park

Astonishing biodiversity exists in Congaree National Park, 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 national and state champion trees.

Available Activities

Camping
Backcountry Camping
Canoe or Kayak Camping
Car or Front Country Camping
Group Camping
Fishing
Freshwater Fishing
Food
Picnicking
Guided Tours
Self-Guided Tours - Walking
Hands-On
Citizen Science
Volunteer Vacation
Hiking
Backcountry Hiking
Front-Country Hiking
Off-Trail Permitted Hiking
Paddling
Canoeing
Canoe or Kayak Camping
Kayaking
Junior Ranger Program
Museum Exhibits
Shopping
Bookstore and Park Store

Weather

Check the forecast before getting on the road. Conditions can change rapidly within the park. Flooding can happen with little or no warning, so make sure to check water levels for Cedar Creek and the Congaree River.

Getting There

From Interstate 77, Exit 5 At Exit 5 turn onto SC Hwy 48 East/Bluff Road. Following the brown and white "Congaree National Park" directional signs, travel approximately 8 miles on and then take a slight right onto Old Bluff Road. Follow Old Bluff Road for 4.

5 miles to the park entrance sign, which will be on the right. Proceed one mile to the Harry Hampton Visitor Center. Parking lots will be on the right.

Plan Your Visit

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Hours

Congaree Operating Hours (Not Visitor Center Hours)

Congaree National Park is generally open 24 hours a day year-round. For visitor and staff safety, park operations and/or weather conditions may occasionally result in short term, temporary closures. Please review the park webpage and social media platforms for more information. The Harry Hampton Visitor Center is open 9-5, daily. It is closed New Year's Day, President's Day, Columbus Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day. Please check alerts prior to your visit.

Location

SC

33.7919, -80.7487

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