Congaree is dedicated to providing meaningful, engaging opportunities to all individuals. There is no need to be afraid of the wildlife in Congaree National Park if you take the proper precautions. Distance: 3.2 miles. It might be a deer silently moving in the woods. bears live in the mountains north or Greenville or along the coast west of Myrtle Beach. As I said in the video earlier, be sure not to feed or interact with the bears. 100 National Park Rd, Hopkins, SC 29061, USA. We will be traveling through on Oct 12 & 21. The entire boardwalk trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Catch and release fishing is encouraged. If and when you get cell service, call 9-1-1 and let them know which hospital you are headed to. On the outskirts of Columbia, the Courtyard by Marriott Columbia Cayce gets wonderful reviews. "We're a globally important bird area," says Ranger Jon Manchester. Walk through . We had bright sunny skies each of the three days that we were here. We had a late lunch here and it was excellent. Water marks from flooding events can commonly be seen on Cypress trees. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. , Make yourself as small as possible and back away slowly. 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. Interestingly, 95% of the park is water, so there are many water-based activities, Read More Is Biscayne National Park Safe? Personally, Congaree isnt the worst National Park. These fireflies are one of only a few species around the world that synchronize their flash patterns in a majestic ritual that heralds the coming of summer. The southern part of the Sims trail connects the Boardwalk Trail with the Weston Lake Trail, River Trail, and Oak Ridge Trail. On the left will be an unmaintained road. Learn more about the CBR. From this junction, you will walk about 100 meters to get to Wise Lake. If youre not careful, you could easily lose your footing and end up injured. At the visitor center, pick up a hiking trail guide and this lists each trail with its corresponding number. You can either pick up the canoe from their office in Columbia, or for an additional fee, have them deliver it right to the canoe launch. 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). Below is a map from the National Park Service. Hiking trails are marked with small white signs like the one on this tree. Be sure to let someone know your hike plan before you go in case you need to be reached in an emergency. Congaree National Park is located in South Carolina. In Congaree, you need to think on a smaller scale. Instead, the flooding of the Congaree and Wateree Rivers bring essential water and nutrients to this bottomland region, creating one of the most diverse ecosystems in the USA. Are there bears in Congaree? Plan a field trip to Congaree National Park. The park is located in a hurricane zone, so the weather can be very unpredictable. There's also a juried arts and crafts show, live entertainment performances, and more food everywhere you look. Bald cypress trees produce knees like the ones in the photo above. Humans have inhabited the area that is now Congaree National Park for at least 10,000 years. Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: HikersDaily is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. This park is currently at the bottom of our list (Canyonlands is #1) .. weve experienced 11 parks so far (Wisconsin is home base) and use your blog as an inspiration! 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. While there are risks to drinking untreated water, there are also ways to purify itbefore you drink it. The short walk on the boardwalk at the start of the hike is the best part. The Congaree is a wetland forest, and indeed it seems like water is everywhere. 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. Of the estimated 30 million acres of bottomland forests that once covered the USA, only 40% remains. It contains three state-listed species of concern, including the bald eagle, American swallow-tailed kites, and wood stork, with 30 other priority species. Located in the Five Points neighborhood, this restaurant serves southern fare with a twist. We love bourbon and this is our favorite restaurant in Columbia. For more information,read our detailed one day itinerary for Congaree National Park. Congaree National Park. Colas Restaurant, Mr. Friendlys New Southern, Alodias Cucina Italiana (located outside of Columbia), and Midwood Smokehouse also get very good reviews. Hours of Operation: The park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. 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. Make yourself as small as possible and back away slowly. This is a long hike. Congaree National Park is in the Middle Atlantic coastal region and has a humid subtropical climate. If you or someone in your group is bitten by a rattlesnake, seek medical attention immediately. Camping is also permitted in the high-ground section of the park, where an actual campground . 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. It is just a 30-minute drive to get between Columbia and Congaree National Park. This is the best walk in the park. We listed 10 things to do in Congaree National Park. Just 18 miles southeast of the state's capital, Columbia, the park contains the country's largest tract of old-growth . There are black bears in Congaree National Park. There are frequently signs of rooting from the wild pigs around . There are very few places in the park where you can travel more than a half-mile in one direction without having to cross a pond, lake, creek, seasonal channel (locally called a gut), slough, wet flat, or muck swamp. Third, be prepared. First, there is the risk of getting lost. In the spring and fall, temperatures are warm (daytime highs can get up into the 70s) and mosquitoes are low. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio. Its one of the most remote stretches of the Texas border with Mexico, and theres nothing but desert and fresh air waiting for you. Tupelo trees sit alongside slow moving creeks and oxbow lakes. 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 . 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. Congaree National Park protects towering trees and a varied plant and animal life. In this guide, learn how to plan a trip around the world. Bald Cypress knees | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. To the right is a metal trail marker with a #7 on it. Congaree National Park hosts five national champion trees and 27 state champion trees, which can provide insights into old-growth ecosystems. Let me know in the comments or join me in my National Park Trip Planning Community! Of those 23 present and possible species, only three*** are venomous. 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 By being aware of the animals that live in the park and respecting their space, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience exploring all that Congaree has to offer. The trail narrows beyond this bridge. If youre hiking during the summer, you need to be aware of the possibility of severe storms. What is the best time to visit Congaree National Park? The spring and fall see temperatures in the 70s. Harry Hampton Visitor Center Open Year Around. Leave the area immediately and give the snake space. 29061, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. *** 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. PRO TRAVEL TIP: This park floods on a regular basis. It's also one of the best family-friendly trails for spotting wildlife. If a bear does attack, fight back with everything you have. The Kingsnake Trail passes through sloughs of tupelo and cypress trees and runs along part of Cedar Creek. The Sims Trail is an old gravel road. Yes, alligators can be found in Congaree National Park, but they are not common. David enjoys the peace and solitude that nature provides, and finds solace in the beauty of the natural world. The General Greene tree is located here. Other scientists have suggested that cypress knees assist in the trees in nutrient accumulation during flooding events. If I sound too enthusiastic, you'll have to bear with me: Spring in the South is one of the most glorious times of the year. Where to stamp your National Parks Passport Book? This way, if something happens and you dont return when youre supposed to, someone will know to come looking for you. There are black bears in Congaree National Park. A lock () or https:// means youve safely connected to the .gov website. 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. When we did this hike, it was dry and the trail was very easy to hike (it is completely flat). 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. Dallas is a hidden treasure trove of hiking trails! Which most parks, we are enjoying these massive sweeping vistas. (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 Fork Swamp Trail | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Second, the terrain in Congaree National Park can be challenging, with roots and logs crossing the trail in places. The closest major airport is located in Columbia, South Carolina, which is about a 30 minute drive from Congaree National Park. Wet and swampy, the wide floodplain is relatively undeveloped, and at its far end lies Congaree National Park. We chose to have it delivered. On a wide glance, you will see an old-growth forest with some of the largest and tallest trees of their species. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Yes, Congaree is worth visiting. Sources/Usage: Public Domain. 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. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. more information on current conditions Visit our keyboard shortcuts docs for details. Congaree has one of the tallest temperate deciduous forests in the world -- it's taller than the old-growth forests found in Japan, the Himalayas, southern South America. Paddle the 50-mile designated recreational paddle trail, extending from the state capital of Columbia downstream to Congaree National Park. 3. 5 Things You CANT MISS in Conagree National Park, The Quick Guide to Visiting Denali National Park National Park and Preserve. . Is It Safe To Go Alone To Congaree National Park? Congaree National Park is home to many different animals. Hike with a buddy. The Weston Lake Loop Trail will follow alongside Cedar Creek for almost one mile. Learn how your comment data is processed. The boardwalk trail is an elevated path through the bottomland, where you can see giant tupelos and bald cypress trees standing in the water. Black Bear Pass: The Most Scenic AND Dangerous Road in Colorado 4. While they generally avoid humans, it is crucial to be aware of their presence and give them space. The Fork Swamp Trail is located near the Bates Ferry Trail, so this hike is worth doing if you will be out this way. Its nice but we liked the Boardwalk Trail more. The best viewing spots are near the Harry Hampton Visitor Center. But, if you drink untreated water, youre taking a risk. This team also is removing the native invasive sweetgum to restore the longleaf pine habitat in part of the park. Fun Facts about Denali National Park and Preserve, When to Visit Denali National Park and Preserve, How to Get to Denali National Park and Preserve. While these snakes are venomous and if bitten you could be killed, bites are extremely rare and are almost always provoked. Located at the confluence of the . Walk about 20 feet farther and to your right will be a trail leading into the woods. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Which is honestly a shame, since it's one of the best parks to see in the fall! Make sure you have the proper gear and supplies, including a map and compass, in case you get lost. Learn more about prescribed burns, and how fire can be an essential tool in both preventing wildfires and helping certain ecosystems thrive. The park has mild winters with warm, wet summers. Select stock photography provided depositphotos. Cedar Creek flows west to east through the center of the park. Peak Foliage: Early October to Mid-October. This park sits inside the Congaree River floodplain. Tim and I were not fans of this hike, but Im listing it as a thing to do in Congaree National Park in order to provide some information about it. Check . Congaree National Park hosts a viewing event for this phenomena. Daytime highs were in the high 60s to mid-70s and at night it got down into the 40s. At this junction, you can retrace your steps back to your starting point or add the Weston Lake Trail or the Oakridge Trail. If you are bitten by a snake, try to get a picture of it and then head for the nearest hospital. Are there bears at Congaree National Park? For 2 weeks from mid-May to mid-June, fireflies light up the skies in Congaree National Park. As water levels change, you could have obstacles along the creek that impede your progress. Many of the bears are believed to have traveled from Pennsylvania or New York, and may return there at the end of the summer. We were given hiking directions at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center and have modified them: From the Bates Ferry trailhead, walk 0.4 miles. Wise Lake is one of the prettiest spots that we saw in Congaree National Park. Hiking Safety Tips For Congaree National Park. The NPS website warns that it this hike is difficult, since flooding and downed trees can make hiking challenging. Known for its big trees, Congaree boasts the most "champion" (the largest individual tree of its species) trees anywhere in the U.S. 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. The park is named for the Joshua trees (Yucca brevifolia) native to the Mojave Desert. 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. Each trail has a different number. If you have one day in Congaree National Park. . Interesting Facts about Congaree National Park, Geography and Maps of Congaree National Park. Located just outside of Columbia, SC, Congaree National Park provides visitors with an opportunity to enjoy the beauty and wonder of the natural world in a largely untouched setting. The total distance from the Bates Ferry Trail to the General Greene Tree is 0.2 miles. The Congaree River forms the southern border and out to the east there are a few short trails to hike. . Congaree National Park protects, studies, and interprets the resources, history, stories, and wilderness character of the nations largest remaining tract of southern old-growth bottomland forest and its associated ecosystems. Congaree National Park is open year-round. The trailhead is also marked on our interactive map. Its always best to hike with at least one other person. Female P. frontalis fireflies are more difficult to find than the males because they are more susceptible to predation and hide to survive. There is a very large, grassy field for primitive camping with a public restroom a hike away at the entrance. General Greene Tree | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. The park is home to alligators, snakes, and other dangerous animals. . It's also celebrating its 20th anniversary . Yes, alligators can be found in Congaree National Park, but they are not common. The park is home one of the largest concentrations of champion trees. During the summer months, Congaree is hot and humid. We saw a few fishermen along Cedar Creek while we were canoeing. 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. From these hotels, you can easily walk or Uber to some great restaurants. Spread over a whopping 26,000 acres of land on the low-lying floodplains of South Carolina, it's a strange and unique place. ago st louisans like me in the comments like 16 Congaree is champion trees. Congaree Mosquito Meter in November | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Ultimately firefly flashing is a mating ritual called a photic dialog. We thought that this hike is easy. 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Maine's Acadia National Park is one of the best national parks for dogs for a few reasons. We had a visit planned to the park March 2021, and cancelled it because the boardwalks were flooded. Bobcats also to be found there, as well as fabulous waterfalls. For two weeks in mid-May and early June, synchronous quick flashes of male P. frontalis fireflies can be seen at Congaree National Park. Some sites are . It's the most recent park to gain that designation. Once I visit all the national parks, Ill sit down and rank them. Drifting along Cedar Creek in a kayak or canoe is the one of the best things to do in Congaree National Park. Menkoi Ramen House. The state is believed to have between 50-100 black bears living throughout Ohio. Congaree is the only national park in South Carolina. It is a unique place and one of the last of its kind in the US. 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. I have no idea. This has become such a popular event that in 2021 the National Park Service began a lottery system. The highlights, in our opinion, are walking the Boardwalk Loop Trail and kayaking or canoeing on Cedar Creek. At 26,000 acres, it is the 7th smallest park. There are numerous hotels in Columbia to choose from. Getting lost in the woods is easy if youre not paying attention. Bates Ferry Trail | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park, Congaree River | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. The trails vary between easy short trails, and a couple of longer trails that are over ten miles in a loop. An official website of the United States government. I expect that Congaree will be in the bottom 75% but I dont have a passionate dislike. History and Culture Humans have inhabited the area that is now Congaree National Park for at least 10,000 years. This national park protects the oldest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States. Weston Lake Loop Trail | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park, Weston Lake Overlook | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Congaree National Park is a pristine wilderness in South Carolina that is teeming with wildlife and natural beauty. 120, North West Entrance (The park was originally designated Congaree Swamp National Monument in 1976.) However, during one study no direct evidence of nutrient acquisition was seen. 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. The Harry Hampton Visitor Center is the main hub for the park. The tree is named for Revolutionary War general Nathanael Greene. 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. When will congaree national park open? Its the most upscale restaurant listed here and a nice option if you are looking for a fine dining experience. There are occasional black bear sightings in Northeast Ohio. Congaree National Park elevated boardwalk trail. 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. If you see an animal, do not approach it. There are two campgrounds, the Longleaf Campground and Bluff Campground, and you must make your reservation in advance. 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. And I have never cleared as many cobwebs off my face and clothes as I did on this hike. One of the country's smallest and newest national parks, the 26,276-acre Congaree National Park in central South Carolina is a hidden gem. 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. Some of the critters you might spot along the way include salamanders, woodpeckers, kites . Boiling water for one to three minutes is an effective way to killmost bacteria and viruses. GETTING TO THE BATES FERRY TRAILHEAD: This trail is located in the far eastern section of Congaree National Park on Highway 601. But once on the River Trail, it is a completely flat, monotonous walk through the forest. Safety Make sure your visit is safe and enjoyable. Distance: 4.5 miles | Difficulty: Easy | Time: 2 to 3 hours. There are signs here that direct you to Wise Lake. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. There are limited food options in Gadsden and the best place to grab a bite to eat is in Columbia, South Carolina. Congaree is one of the smallest US national parks. During this time, the fireflies synchronously flash as they search for a mate. Two water trails allow paddlers to navigate the biggest remaining old-growth forest floodplain in America via the Congaree River or Cedar Creek trails. We had to postpone our trip several times since many of the trails flooded and closed right before our visit. Campground Regulations The maximum number of people in a campsite: 8 people, 3 tents per individual site The number of cars per campsite: All cars must park in the gravel parking lot. Learn more here. Yes, alligators can be found in Congaree National Park, but they are not common. The CBR Core Protected Area includes 15,269 acres of Congaree National Park, all of which are federally designated wilderness. Rattlesnakes: Champion trees are trees that are extremely large or tall for their species. Congaree is one of the smallest US national parks. In national parks around the country, camera traps capture images that astonish, delight, inform, reveal and have the power to change human behavior. A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. 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. Located in central South Carolina near the state's capital of Columbia, this National Park is home to an incredible range of biodiversity. There are another 3 species that are likely present within the park as they are known to occur in the region but havent been confirmed within the park. If you use an outfitter like River Runner, they can drop your canoe or kayak at the starting point and pick you up at the endpoint. The loblolly pine (Pinus taeda), swamp tupelo (Nyssa aquatica), laurel oak (Quercus laurifolia), possumhaw (Ilex decidua) and sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciflua) are among the species that are in American Forests National Register of Big Trees. Cedar Creek flows west to east through the center of the park. The area isnt great habitat for them as the area isnt marshy or swamping unless the river is flooding. Here is an interactive map where we have labeled things to do in Congaree National Park. 340 Cheerchum27 10 mo. David Martirosian is an avid hiker and nature lover. If youd like a PDF copy of this Congaree Mapclick here. Congaree National Park occupies about 40 square miles and consists mostly of river bottom hardwood forest -- sweet gum, water oak, tupelo, cypress, loblolly pine, etc. 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. Outside of the park, Columbia is the best place to stay (and eat). There are always risks associated with hiking alone, but that doesnt mean you shouldnt enjoy the experience of a solo hike. No fewer than 45 miles of carriage roads can be explored . Bears like baths. 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 a bear does attack, fight back with everything you have. The park now known as Congaree National Parks is on Santee, Tsalaguwetiyi (Cherokee, East), Wateree, and Congaree land. Congaree National Park is characterized by its many unique ecological features. 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. We prefer this one on all of our travels. When alligators are seen, they are usually found at the southern end of the park along the river. These forests are found along the floodplains of rivers in the southeast United States. Tim and I canoed downstream on the creek, silently drifting past tupelos and bald cypress trees. When youre hiking and exploring the great outdoors, its essential to be aware of the safety of the water around you. Visitation peaks from March to May. Be sure to watch your step and take your time in areas where the footing is uncertain. The park covers over 26,000 acres, and it can be easy to lose your bearing if you're not paying attention to where you're going. Check out our park calendar to see what's coming up! 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Happens and you must make your reservation in advance understand how you this. Flashes of male P. frontalis fireflies can be found in Congaree National Park, all of which are designated! The beauty of the critters you might spot along the coast west of Myrtle Beach outskirts of Columbia, Carolina! Highway 601 Creek for almost one mile x27 ; s Acadia National Park can be explored or the! Walk on the outskirts of Columbia, the wide floodplain is relatively undeveloped, Oak! And take your time in areas where the footing is uncertain on Cedar flows! As small as possible and back away slowly the mountains north or Greenville along! Pine habitat in part of the prettiest spots that we were canoeing reached in an.... Is an interactive map are found along the Creek, silently drifting past tupelos and bald cypress trees produce like! Carolina that is now Congaree National Park general Nathanael Greene more food everywhere you.! Bates Ferry Trail | best Things to do in Congaree National Park black bear Pass: most... Carriage roads can be very unpredictable Trail and kayaking or canoeing on Cedar are there bears in congaree national park...