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.
Photo: NPS / NPS
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.
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Driving times from Congaree National Park, one way, via road — a realistic day is 8–10 hours behind the wheel.
Hours
Congaree Operating Hours (Not Visitor Center Hours)
- Mon
- All Day
- Tue
- All Day
- Wed
- All Day
- Thu
- All Day
- Fri
- All Day
- Sat
- All Day
- Sun
- All Day
Activities
Getting there
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.
Frequently asked questions
- What is there to do at Congaree National Park?
- Popular activities include Backcountry Camping, Backcountry Hiking, Bookstore and Park Store, Camping, Canoe or Kayak Camping, Canoe or Kayak Camping.
- Which national parks are within a day's drive of Congaree National Park?
- Within about a day's drive you can reach Ninety Six National Historic Site (2 h 17 min), Charles Pinckney National Historic Site (2 h 20 min), Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park (2 h 27 min), Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail (2 h 38 min), Kings Mountain National Military Park (2 h 39 min), Reconstruction Era National Historical Park (2 h 45 min).