In the spring and fall, temperatures are warm (daytime highs can get up into the 70s) and mosquitoes are low. It contains three state-listed species of concern, including the bald eagle, American swallow-tailed kites, and wood stork, with 30 other priority species. Distance: 4.5 miles | Difficulty: Easy | Time: 2 to 3 hours. For more information,read our detailed one day itinerary for Congaree National Park. 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. David enjoys the peace and solitude that nature provides, and finds solace in the beauty of the natural world. An alternate hypothesis is that cypress knees evolved in due to environmental pressure that no longer occur, so that they currently serve no purpose. Congaree National Park hosts five national champion trees and 27 state champion trees, which can provide insights into old-growth ecosystems. Of those 23 present and possible species, only three*** are venomous. At 26,000 acres, it is the 7th smallest park. Bald Cypress knees | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Outside of going to see the fireflies, I wouldnt make a special trip to visit but I would stop for another visit if I was in the area. To the right is a metal trail marker with a #7 on it. By studying champion trees, scientists can discern optimum ecological conditions for these species. Some of the critters you might spot along the way include salamanders, woodpeckers, kites . Second, be aware of your surroundings. Congaree National Park is proud to be part of the Congaree Biosphere Region, designated by UNESCO. Fish, amphibians, deer, raccoon, feral pigs, bobcats, and numerous species of snakes and birds all find refuge inside this park. Fireflies flash to communicate and each flash length is unique to a certain species. Wildfires caused by lightning resulted in habitats and vegetation that needed fire to be healthy, but fire suppression techniques have caused a change in the ecosystem. It covers a large area of Mojave Desert wilderness in San Bernardino County. Fall is the best time to go paddling on Cedar Creek since water levels are ideal. At the trail junction, follow signs for Weston Lake and you will now be on trail #3 (there will be small, white signs on the trees with the number 3 on them). Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. It is mistakenly referred to as a swamp. Here is an interactive map where we have labeled things to do in Congaree National Park. In 1983, Congaree became an International Biosphere Reserve. Champion trees are trees which are the tallest or largest in either the state or nation. One of our favorite things to do on this visit was go out to dinner. The closest town is Crescent City, about 60 miles south of the Oregon border. Click on the Congaree Map above to download the official brochure map. Outside of the park, Columbia is the best place to stay (and eat). The park has mild winters with warm, wet summers. Expert Answers: Congaree National Park is a 26,276-acre American national park in central South Carolina, 18 miles southeast of the state capital, Columbia. There is a very large, grassy field for primitive camping with a public restroom a hike away at the entrance. Pay attention to the trail and watch for any potential hazards. These species, however, no longer are found within the park. Along the way, there are sandbars, ancient bluffs and all manner of wildlife. Be sure to let someone know your hike plan before you go in case you need to be reached in an emergency. It is the remains of an old ferry road that ended at the Congaree River. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks. It boasts stunningly decorated caves, ancient trees, astonishing mountainous scenery, and an abundance of other scenic features that are hard to find these days. The boardwalk trail is an elevated path through the bottomland, where you can see giant tupelos and bald cypress trees standing in the water. These cookies do not store any personal information. 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. It is just a 30-minute drive to get between Columbia and Congaree National Park. Visiting Congaree National Park in 2023? There were no signs labeling this access road but the GPS coordinates for the turn off are 334544.7N 803833.7W. 120, North West Entrance Congaree National Park was created on October 18, 1976, as a Congaree Swamp National Monument. Make sure your visit is safe and enjoyable. However, during one study no direct evidence of nutrient acquisition was seen. If you have additional information on the Indigenous nations boundaries, please let them know. Are there bears in Congaree National Park? If you see an animal, do not approach it. Synchronous flashing displays are rare among North American fireflies, and the species of fireflies found within Congaree National Park live in a range that spans Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee with a preferred habit in mature forests and wet bottomlands. The area isnt great habitat for them as the area isnt marshy or swamping unless the river is flooding. Hiking trails provide access for all levels and time constraints and offer views that are both scenic and educational about this little-known treasure on the banks of the Congaree River. Its no secret that water is essential for survival. Make yourself as small as possible and back away slowly. Learn how to become a Congaree Junior Ranger! The cost is minimal, a $5.00 . Part of Sims Trail bisects the Boardwalk Loop Trail and this part of Sims trail is not worth it, since you miss seeing the bottomland forests. Distance: 12 miles | Difficulty: Easy to difficult | Time: 5 to 7 hours. South of the park, the Congaree River meets the Wateree and together, as the Santee River, they flow nearly 150 miles to the Atlantic Ocean. The park is home to mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and coral reefs, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers. Its one of the most remote stretches of the Texas border with Mexico, and theres nothing but desert and fresh air waiting for you. It contains three state-listed species of concern, including the bald eagle, American swallow-tailed kites, and wood stork, with 30 other priority species. Congaree National Park is a place of tremendous ecological diversity. For purchasing mugs inside the park, visit the following locations: Valley Visitor Center 9035 Village Drive YNP, CA 95389 Wawona Visitor Center at Hill's Studio 8308 Wawona Road Fishcamp, CA 93623 Big Oak Flat Information Center Hwy. Visit Media to see details. At Congaree National Park, there are two main options for camping in the backcountry: the Longleaf and Bluff campgrounds. The Oakridge Trail is a longer trail (7.1 miles) that passes through hardwood forests with oaks, gums, and poplars. It covers an area of 26,276 acres and is known for its stunning views, deep canyons, and unique geological formations. Once the trail turns to the left, look for cypress trees standing in water off on the right side of the trail. But once on the River Trail, it is a completely flat, monotonous walk through the forest. First, let someone know where youre going and when you expect to be back. 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. The total ascent for this hike is a mere 60 feet. General Greene Tree | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Those in search of solitude will find it while wandering deep into the glaciated peaks and jungles of Olympic National Park, while rock climbers from around the world will challenge themselves. Required fields are marked *. Congaree is champion trees. Congaree National Park is a wonderful place to visit. There are . These are the 10 most dog-friendly national parks in the USA. This trail starts at the Cedar Creek Canoe Launch and ends at the junction with the Weston Lake Trail and Oakridge Trail. As water levels change, you could have obstacles along the creek that impede your progress. Its a beautiful part of Congaree National Park. The sun can be intense, even on cloudy days. In Congaree, you need to think on a smaller scale. It's also celebrating its 20th anniversary . The parks are also home, Read More Is Redwood National Park Safe? There are signs here that direct you to Wise Lake. Yes, alligators can be found in Congaree National Park, but they are not common. 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! The summers see temperatures in the up 90s degrees Fahrenheit with high humidity making it seem much hotter. It's the most recent park to gain that designation. Tupelo trees sit alongside slow moving creeks and oxbow lakes. 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 Bobcats also to be found there, as well as fabulous waterfalls. Walk the Boardwalk Loop Trail. According to CTV News, there are a total of 200 grizzly bears that roam the Banff, Jasper, Yoho, and Kootenay National Parks. 5 Things You CANT MISS in Conagree National Park, The Quick Guide to Visiting Denali National Park National Park and Preserve. GETTING HERE: On Google Maps, the trailhead is labeled Fork Swamp Trailhead. It is located on an access road on Highway 601. Are there snakes in Congaree National Park? Harry Hampton Visitor Center Open Year Around. The National Park Passport Books is one of the best and cheapest souvenirs. The park is home to alligators, snakes, and other dangerous animals. So it was totally the poachers fault. In 2003, it was designated an Important Bird Area. 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. Sunscreen Use it. Congaree is one of the smallest US national parks. If you are bitten by a snake, try to get a picture of it and then head for the nearest hospital. The Fork Swamp Trail is located near the Bates Ferry Trail, so this hike is worth doing if you will be out this way. I vaguely recollect a small camping area at the parking lot for those not wishing to hike in. There are occasional black bear sightings in Northeast Ohio. Both are located in the upland pine forests of the park and offer a spectacular wooded setting for those looking for a challenge. If youre not careful, you could quickly end up as prey. 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. It is 168 ft tall and has a circumference of 181 inches. We will help you avoid the crowds as well as find the best Congaree hikes, and where to stay. Do you have any questions about Congaree National Park, let us know in the comments below or need help planning your National Park trips. Adding on the Weston Lake Trail and Wise Lake is great for those who want to go a little deeper into the park. Longleaf pine forests are highly diverse, fire-dependent, open-canopy ecosystems. Congaree National Park does not charge an entrance fee. Catch and release fishing is encouraged. Cedar Creek is a very slow moving creek. David Martirosian is an avid hiker and nature lover. After a heavy flooding, the Boardwalk Loop Trail, and other trails on this list, can temporarily close. (2023)Continue, Indiana Dunes National Park is located in northwestern Indiana, on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. Are there bears in Cuyahoga Valley National Park? Yes, pets are welcome in Congaree National Park and are allowed on the trails. At the midpoint of the hike, you get a view of the Congaree River, but its not worth it, not for an 11 mile round trip hike (if you want a view of the Congaree River from a hiking trail, do the 2.2 mile Bates Ferry Trail instead). Both snakes have red, black, and yellow color bands on their body and telling them apart is a little confusing. 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. And I have never cleared as many cobwebs off my face and clothes as I did on this hike. Seeing this fallen tree was one of the most memorable parts of this hike. It climbs to 167 feet and is almost 15 feet in circumference. There are 18 confirmed species of snakes in Congaree. The park preserves. However, Congaree National Park is a relatively safe place to explore at night. IMPORTANT: Do NOT stamp your government issued passport. 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. Learn more here. Cedar Creek Bridge | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park, Cedar Creek | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. I get why this park often makes peoples worst national parks or they ask why Congaree is a National Park. The General Greene tree is located here. Interestingly, 95% of the park is water, so there are many water-based activities, Read More Is Biscayne National Park Safe? Columbia is 20 miles northwest of Congaree and is the closest major city. The trails vary between easy short trails, and a couple of longer trails that are over ten miles in a loop. , 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. We visited Congaree from November 8 through November 10. Be sure to stay on the trail and away from any areas where you cant see the ground clearly. Spread over a whopping 26,000 acres of land on the low-lying floodplains of South Carolina, it's a strange and unique place. It depends. Both towns are just a short drive to the Sugarlands Visitor Center, which serves as the northern entrance to the national park. If you or someone in your group is bitten by a rattlesnake, seek medical attention immediately. And finally, hike with a buddy and let someone know your plans. We were following the Congaree River Blue Trail, a 50-mile water trail established in 2007 by . We love bourbon and this is our favorite restaurant in Columbia. Leave the area immediately and give the snake space. South Carolina's Congaree National Park is a wilderness unlike any other. Your email address will not be published. On the outskirts of Columbia, the Courtyard by Marriott Columbia Cayce gets wonderful reviews. The Boardwalk | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. . Check . So it sounds like the flooding can extend later into the season. Sadly, when we arrived, the whole place was flooded even half of the boardwalk was under water. We did not hike this trail, choosing the River Trail instead. During a visit to Congaree National Park, the number one thing to do is walk the Boardwalk Loop Trail. National Parks in Colorado: Explore the 13 Colorado National Parks (2021 Update), National Parks of South Dakota: Explore the 6 South Dakota National Parks. Candid Cameras. When alligators are seen, they are usually found at the southern end of the park along the river. The national parks protect the greatest remaining area of bottomland hardwood champion trees in old-growth forests in the United States. There are South Carolina State Parks close by that offer RV camping. Once I visit all the national parks, Ill sit down and rank them. CONGAREE VINES also has a Log Cabin & Barn Bungalow available! Now, lets talk about Congaree National Park specifically. The park is full of steep hills and treacherous trails. We stayed at the SpringHill Suites in Pigeon Forge, which we recommend. Republishing this articleand/orany of its contents (text, photography, etc. Some even reach an astounding height of 170 feet, creating one of the highest forest canopies in the world. As I said in the video earlier, be sure not to feed or interact with the bears. Temperatures can be chilly but snow is unusual. Charlotte Douglass International Airport, which is located in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a larger airport with more flight options. Its always best to hike with at least one other person. Interesting Facts about Congaree National Park Geography and Maps of Congaree National Park Best Things to Do Planning Your Time When to Go How to Get Here Where to Stay Where to Eat Plan Your Visit. Congaree Mosquito Meter in November | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Congaree Trail Sign | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Weston Lake Loop Trail | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park, Weston Lake Overlook | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. We thought that this hike is easy. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Hours of Operation: The park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. Congaree National Park is dog-friendly. There are black bears in Congaree National Park. At the next trail junction, go left to continue on the Weston Lake Loop Trail and head back towards the Visitor Center. Discover the best attractions, trails, directions, maps, dining, lodging and more. Harry Hampton Visitor Center is located at 100 National Park Rd, Hopkins, SC 29061. There are no cars allowed within the campground. 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. Why You Should Go: Take a walk along the Windham Path, a 1.5-mile loop on mostly flat ground that sits just underneath Windham Mountain. Third, be prepared. Spanning a staggering 26,276 acres, Congaree National Park is an enormous place to explore on foot or by water, making for a marvelous experience for hikers and nature enthusiasts. When we did this hike, it was dry and the trail was very easy to hike (it is completely flat). Web Visit website. Second, the terrain in Congaree National Park can be challenging, with roots and logs crossing the trail in places. Congaree National Park . Bear with govt while we sort out nation's finances, PM tells civil servants over salary review . Ultimately firefly flashing is a mating ritual called a photic dialog. I only recommend this hike for those who are looking for a long hike away from the crowds. Pick a quiet area along the boardwalk and stop moving and just look around you. When he's not out exploring nature, David can be found learning about new adventures waiting to be explored. However, if you encounter a bear, do not approach it. Starting at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center, this all-boardwalk trail makes a loop through some of the best scenery in Congaree National Park. Here are a few of the common animals that you may encounter while exploring the park: That said, while most of the wildlife in Congaree National Park is harmless, there are a few animals that you should be aware of. Congaree National Park. Acadia National Park, Maine. If you have dont have a National Park Passport Book click here to learn more about the program or click here to buy. Get the best trails, tips & gear Reviews - for free. Congaree National Park. Congaree officially became a national park on November 10, 2003. Winter in the southeast means no humidity and no bugs, making it an ideal season to paddle, hike, or fish at the park. If you see an animal,do not approach it. Astonishing biodiversity exists in Congaree National Park, the largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States. Female P. frontalis fireflies are more difficult to find than the males because they are more susceptible to predation and hide to survive. The park is home one of the largest concentrations of champion trees. The entire boardwalk trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Is It Safe To Drink Water In Congaree National Park? The Congaree River forms the southern border and out to the east there are a few short trails to hike. Native Land Digital is a registered Canadian not-for-profit organization with the goal to creates spaces where non-Indigenous people can be invited and challenged to learn more about the lands they inhabit, the history of those lands, and how to actively be part of a better future going forward together. Some sites are . Plan today at Ameriparks. Make yourself as small as possible and back away slowly. Congaree National Park is in the Middle Atlantic coastal region and has a humid subtropical climate. Camping is also permitted in the high-ground section of the park, where an actual campground . What is the best time to visit Congaree National Park? Longleaf pines are shade-intolerant, so they are less likely to survive in close canopy ecosystems. , tips & gear reviews - for free Easy | Time: 5 to hours. 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