Its the most upscale restaurant listed here and a nice option if you are looking for a fine dining experience. Candid Cameras. The southern part of the Sims trail connects the Boardwalk Trail with the Weston Lake Trail, River Trail, and Oak Ridge Trail. Quick Facts About The US National Parks. It's also one of the best family-friendly trails for spotting wildlife. What is a bottomland forest? The General Greene Tree was recognized as a South Carolina Heritage Tree on December 7, 2018. Learn more about available resources. The food is very good (Cajun and Creole) but the main reason to put this restaurant on your list is for the bourbon. There are always risks associated with hiking alone, but that doesnt mean you shouldnt enjoy the experience of a solo hike. When we did this, the trail was dry. The closest major airport is located in Columbia, South Carolina, which is about a 30 minute drive from Congaree National Park. Some even reach an astounding height of 170 feet, creating one of the highest forest canopies in the world. Congaree encounters - Today, South Carolina has an estimated 1,200 resident black bears. The parks are also home, Read More Is Redwood National Park Safe? Distance: 3.2 miles. They negatively impact the health of the forest ecosystem. The Harry Hampton Visitor Center is the main hub for the park. Known for its big trees, Congaree boasts the most "champion" (the largest individual tree of its species) trees anywhere in the U.S. It is the best way to experience this park. 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. This trail leads out to the southern channel of Bates Old River, an oxbow lake created by a hurricane in 1852. Learn how to become a Congaree Volunteer! Located at the confluence of the . NEARBY PARKS: Great Smoky Mountains, Mammoth Cave, New River Gorge, and Shenandoah. Its always better to have too much than not enough. The Oakridge Trail is a longer trail (7.1 miles) that passes through hardwood forests with oaks, gums, and poplars. Congaree National Park is a national park located in the state of South Carolina. Hiking alone can be dangerous if you arent used to it. GETTING HERE: On Google Maps, the trailhead is labeled Fork Swamp Trailhead. It is located on an access road on Highway 601. Yes, Congaree is worth visiting. 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. There is no RV Camping in Congaree NP. Congaree National Park is home to a number of different species of fireflies, but it is the synchronized fireflies that lure thousands of people to the park each spring. How high is the water, ranger? This way, if something happens and you dont return when youre supposed to, someone will know to come looking for you. Do you have any questions about Congaree National Park, let us know in the comments below or need help planning your National Park trips. Distance: 0.6 miles | Difficulty: Easy to moderate | Time: 30 minutes. Check . Make yourself as small as possible and back away slowly. Those are the Copperhead, Canebrake Rattlesnake (Coastal Plain of the Southeast Timber Rattlesnake), and the Water Moccasin (Cottonmouth). Are dogs allowed in Acadia National Park? Plan a field trip to Congaree National Park. Seeing this fallen tree was one of the most memorable parts of this hike. First, let someone know where youre going and when you expect to be back. The trees that grow here are some of the tallest in the eastern US and this is one of the highest temperate deciduous forest canopies in the world. Cedar Creek flows west to east through the center of the park. Female P. frontalis fireflies are more difficult to find than the males because they are more susceptible to predation and hide to survive. The best viewing spots are near the Harry Hampton Visitor Center. 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 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. If you are a birdwatcher, this is the best trail in the park. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. During a visit to Congaree National Park, the number one thing to do is walk the Boardwalk Loop Trail. In both the spring and fall, Congaree gets about 3 inches of rain per month. Species that are being treated are Chinese wisteria (Wisteria sinensis), Chinese privet (Ligustrum sinense), Japanese climbing fern (Lygodium japonicum), beefsteak (Perilla frutescens), shrub lespedeza (Lespedeza bicolor), Japanese stiltgrass (Microstegium vimineum), Chinaberry (Melia azedarach), Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), and kudzu (Pueraria montana). *15% off Guided Kayak in CNP w/Carolina Outdoor Adventures $105 night 4.97 (513) SUPERHOST Cottage in Hopkins Maybe we would have liked this one more? There are black bears in Congaree National Park. Many of the bears are believed to have traveled from Pennsylvania or New York, and may return there at the end of the summer. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Voyageurs National Park - 221,434. Getting to the tree is a bit tricky. While these snakes are venomous and if bitten you could be killed, bites are extremely rare and are almost always provoked. The park preserves. First, the park is home to some potentially dangerous wildlife, including snakes and alligators. It gets its name since this is a good place to see the synchronous fireflies in May and June. This is a long hike. Nevertheless, lets break everything down so you can be as prepared as possible for your next adventure. We stayed at the Hilton Columbia Center and had a great experience but the Graduate Columbia, Staybridge Suites Columbia, Aloft Columbia Downtown, and the Courtyard Columbia Downtown all are highly rated and have a great location in downtown Columbia. Congaree National Park officials have said for years they doubt bears are living in the park, but many people expect that to change as bears expand their range in South Carolina. In the following sections, we will cover these dangers in more detail to prepare you for your next trip to Congaree. Gus gave us a great overview of Cedar Creek and told us what to keep an eye out for as we paddled on the creek. . But once on the River Trail, it is a completely flat, monotonous walk through the forest. These forests are found along the floodplains of rivers in the southeast United States. Official websites use .gov There are several other trees which are South Carolina campion trees. But downed trees and flooding can create difficult conditions. If service dog, bring paperwork. Phone +1 803-776-4396. At this junction, you can retrace your steps back to your starting point or add the Weston Lake Trail or the Oakridge Trail. This large carnivore has a huge home range that could encompass half-a-dozen bear territories. Youll find some challenging terrain with steep scrambles or leisurely strolls depending upon what youre looking to do, Read More Hiking In Dallas: 15 Stunning Hikes Near Dallas, TexasContinue, Redwood National and State Parks are located on the north coast of California. There are some safety risks and concerns that hikers should be aware of, but overallthe park is a safe place to hike and explore. There is no need to be afraid of the wildlife in Congaree National Park if you take the proper precautions. There are benches all along the Boardwalk if you need a rest. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, West Virginia. What is the max size you can keep striped bass in Congaree River? I only recommend this hike for those who are looking for a long hike away from the crowds. There are no cars allowed within the campground. Walk the Boardwalk Loop Trail. This is where the majority of the hiking trails start, including the wonderful Boardwalk Loop Trail. The entire boardwalk trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible. You can go hiking, kayaking, canoeing, or camping under a tent. It might be a snake slithering up a tree. Interestingly, 95% of the park is water, so there are many water-based activities, Read More Is Biscayne National Park Safe? The area has amazing biodiversity. It contains three state-listed species of concern, including the bald eagle, American swallow-tailed kites, and wood stork, with 30 other priority species. There are black bears in Congaree National Park. 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. The park preserves the largest tract of old growth bottomland hardwood forest left in the United States. Select stock photography provided depositphotos. In Congaree, you can see some of the tallest Loblolly pines still alive today as well as bald cypress trees that are over 500 years old. Stamps located here: Congaree National Park is a unique and special place. Tupelo trees sit alongside slow moving creeks and oxbow lakes. At 2 pm, our canoe was delivered by Gus from River Runner Outdoor Center. . *** 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. If you plan to visit the park for the day, pack a picnic lunch. Boiling water for one to three minutes is an effective way to killmost bacteria and viruses. If so, you are going to have an amazing time. Some of the tallest trees on the east coast are located inside Congaree, which was named after the Native American tribe that used to reside there. Interesting Facts about Congaree National Park, Geography and Maps of Congaree National Park. What Are The Biggest Dangers At Congaree National Park? Congaree National Park is famous for its mosquitoes and biting insects. Fishing is allowed in all areas of Congaree National Park. Fish, amphibians, deer, raccoon, feral pigs, bobcats, and numerous species of snakes and birds all find refuge inside this park. Once the trail turns to the left, look for cypress trees standing in water off on the right side of the trail. So it was totally the poachers fault. This national park protects the oldest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States. For two hours, Tim and I paddled on Cedar Creek and once we were finished, Gus picked up the canoe and we were on our way. Difficulty: Easy. Where are Acadia National Parks visitor centers? If you see an animal, do not approach it. . 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. South Carolina's Congaree National Park is a wilderness unlike any other. If you see an animal,do not approach it. You can canoe part or all of this trail. Comprising nearly 11,000 hectares, Congaree National Park is the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. There are a few key things to remember when hiking Congaree National Park to stay safe and have a great time. I can only find reports of one venomous snakebite in the park and that was to a poacher who was handing a copperhead. 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. Congaree National Park is home to many different animals. Discover the best attractions, trails, directions, maps, dining, lodging and more. If a bear does attack, fight back with everything you have. However, Congaree National Park is a relatively safe place to explore at night. This is a park where you want to slow your roll and enjoy the little things. The best time to see the fireflies is between 9 pm and 10 pm. However, if you encounter a bear, do not approach it. Congaree National Park elevated boardwalk trail. Note: This post contains affiliate links. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. An official website of the United States government. With over 26,000 acres of forest and wetlands, Congaree is home to an abundance of wildlife. Hotels near Congaree National Park: (14.38 km) PRIVATE Half a House between Columbia and Sumter, SC. Rattlesnakes: Looking for a cheap National Park souvenir? Third, the park is remote, and there is no cell phone service. We spent two hours canoeing on Cedar Creek, starting and ending at the Cedar Creek Canoe Launch. Not quite a swamp but also unlike any mountain forest you've ever seen, Congaree National Park is a unique park. Pets welcome at $25 per pet. Just a half-hour outside of the state's capital, Congaree National Park is the only national park in South Carolina. Drifting along Cedar Creek in a kayak or canoe is the one of the best things to do in Congaree National Park. If your visit is part of a bigger road trip, here are the driving distances and times to nearby destinations: Inside of Congaree National Park, your only option is tent camping. Learn how your comment data is processed. There are frequently signs of rooting from the wild pigs around . There are a lot of great restaurants in Columbia. Below is a map from the National Park Service. Hiking and being in parks at night can be dangerous because of the low visibility, more wildlife out at night, and other general safety concerns. 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. Hiking alone can be a great way to enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. David enjoys the peace and solitude that nature provides, and finds solace in the beauty of the natural world. It boasts stunningly decorated caves, ancient trees, astonishing mountainous scenery, and an abundance of other scenic features that are hard to find these days. . If you see a snake, give it space and dont mess with it. But Im just one National Park Obsessed person and I think the worst National Park is Gateway Arch. IMPORTANT: Do NOT stamp your government issued passport. The National Champion Loblolly Pine is located in Congaree. 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. 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. Although it's among the smaller national parks in America, much of it is open to both humans and their pets. While they generally avoid humans, it is crucial to be aware of their presence and give them space. By following these simple tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience hiking in Congaree National Park. Longleaf pines are shade-intolerant, so they are less likely to survive in close canopy ecosystems. Cheers, Julie. 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. Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your Google Maps account. Staff could verify. Congaree National Park - 204,522. The Harry Hampton Visitor Center is the main hub for the park. And I have never cleared as many cobwebs off my face and clothes as I did on this hike. It is mistakenly referred to as a swamp. We are headed to Charleston next month and plan to stop at Congaree National Park. As you drive south on Highway 601, the turn off for the trailhead is located just past the bridge that crosses Bates Old River. If and when you get cell service, call 9-1-1 and let them know which hospital you are headed to. On the left will be an unmaintained road. There is a 15 mile trail called the Cedar Creek Canoe Trail, that starts at Bannisters Bridge and ends at the Congaree River. If you have dont have a National Park Passport Book click here to learn more about the program or click here to buy. The Kingsnake Trail passes through sloughs of tupelo and cypress trees and runs along part of Cedar Creek. It is just a 30-minute drive to get between Columbia and Congaree National Park. If you're planning a visit in the spring or summer make sure to wear clothing that protects your skin and apply ample amounts of insect repellent. Congaree Trail Sign | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Great Basin National Park is the most crowd-free national Park in the United States. Maine's Acadia National Park is one of the best national parks for dogs for a few reasons. On this trail, you will cross a metal bridge over a creek. Coral snakes have a VERY similar coloration to the kingsnake which is found in the park. Bears like baths. Congarees has the USs tallest Pine Loblolly. Champion trees are trees which are the tallest or largest in either the state or nation. If you love spending time outdoors and enjoying all that nature has to offer, Congaree National Park is the place for you! What is the best time to visit Congaree National Park? There are numerous hotels in Columbia to choose from. (2023). Bears are generally shy and avoid contact with humans. 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. If you see an alligator, do not approach it, and keep your pets away from the water. Get updates on road conditions and trail closures, as you plan your trip and just before your visit, on the National Park Service website. Read all of our articles about the United States in our United States Travel Guide. We prefer this one on all of our travels. Just 18 miles southeast of the state's capital, Columbia, the park contains the country's largest tract of old-growth . . Fireflies flash to communicate and each flash length is unique to a certain species. The Bates Ferry Trail is really not all that exciting. Are there bears in Congaree National Park? Virgin . Those who want to rough it can find a great camping experience in the wilderness. Also, there are several potential hazardsincluding venomous snakes, poisonous . Experience this Park fallen Tree was one of the forest and alligators one National Park home! Trees standing in water off on the right side of the forest ecosystem largest intact of. And have a National Park all that exciting those who want to it. Congaree National Park, the trailhead is labeled Fork Swamp trailhead ( Plain. 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