Congaree National Park

Congaree National Recreation area

Attendees to Congaree National Recreation area in South Carolina will find the greatest remaining old-growth bottom land woodlands in The United States. Most of the park is designated wilderness area, sustaining a large concentration of champion trees. The inundating of the Congaree River several occasions annually has produced an atmosphere conducive towards the development of many types of giant trees which includes loblolly pines, bald cypress, laurel oaks, red maples, and sweet gums.

The Congaree River and Cedar Creek run by means of the park. You'll find also several little oxbow lakes that were once part of the river's main channel. This flood plain is home to a variety of birds and also other wildlife which includes deer, raccoons, opossums, turtles, snakes, and river otters. Fishing is common inside the park and it is allowed in all areas except Weston Lake. A valid South Carolina fishing permit is essential and no motorized boats are allowed. Guests might also appreciate canoeing or kayaking in Congaree National Park. The park delivers cost-free guided canoe excursions on Cedar Creek. Bookings for these trips are taken quarterly. Guests might also bring their own canoes or kayaks. The Visitor Center has information on existing water levels. Paddlers might also canoe the Congaree River, but there's no vehicle access inside the park.

The Harry Hampton Visitor Center, open day-to-day from 9am-5pm, has exhibits in regards to the park. An excellent way to appreciate the park's old-growth forest would be to take a hike. The 2.4 mile elevated boardwalk loop trail is among the most common with visitors. You'll find 20 miles of other routes inside the park, ranging in length from .7 to 11 miles. The trails provide opportunities to do bird watching and observe several of the park's other wildlife. One of the a lot more common trails inside the park could be the Weston Lake Loop Trail, which follows along Cedar Creek and loops round the lake. The River Trail, which leads to the Congaree River, is also popular. Hikers ought to examine in the Visitor Center for existing trail conditions. Simple camping is allowed all year long, but you'll find no amenities available. Park rangers conduct a variety of applications during the year. Guests might appreciate guided hikes, canoe trips, campfire talks, and bird counts.

Congaree National Park was established in 2003 and it is one of the country's newest National Parks. It is positioned 20 miles southeast of Columbia off SC Highway 48. The park is open throughout the year, and there is no entrance fee.