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! Its well worth it, as it points out both natural and historical sights along the trail. Congaree is one of the smallest US national parks. Photo by Miguel Vieira/Flickr. There are more alligators on the South Carolina coast and in the Lowcountry than in Columbia. It is mistakenly referred to as a swamp. Check conditions here! The NPS website warns that it this hike is difficult, since flooding and downed trees can make hiking challenging. 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. In Congaree, you need to think on a smaller scale. Those are the Copperhead, Canebrake Rattlesnake (Coastal Plain of the Southeast Timber Rattlesnake), and the Water Moccasin (Cottonmouth). We visited Congaree from November 8 through November 10. 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. If you have one day in Congaree National Park, spend half a day hiking the Boardwalk Loop Trail and Weston Lake Trail and spend half of a day canoeing or kayaking on Cedar Creek. Also, there are several potential hazardsincluding venomous snakes, poisonous . But Im just one National Park Obsessed person and I think the worst National Park is Gateway Arch. It has an onsite restaurant and it is 10 minutes closer to Congaree than the hotels in downtown Columbia. SC If you want to see the synchronous fireflies, plan your visit for the end of May to early June. bears live in the mountains north or Greenville or along the coast west of Myrtle Beach. White Sands National Park, New Mexico. 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 . 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. This lake is surrounded by old growth trees. Their range once included what now is Congaree National Park, a massive forested flood plain known for its towering trees. 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. The total ascent for this hike is a mere 60 feet. Its always better to have too much than not enough. Getting to the tree is a bit tricky. 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. When we did this, the trail was dry. Temperatures frequently get up into the high-90s and even up over 100F. 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. . Pinnacles National Park - 275,023. Are there bears in Cuyahoga Valley National Park? 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. First, let someone know where youre going and when you expect to be back. It is also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The flooding, from what I read, usually occurs in the winter into early spring. In fact, it was our favorite experience here. What is the max size you can keep striped bass in Congaree River? Get the best trails, tips & gear Reviews - for free. 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. Cheers, Julie. It's also one of the best family-friendly trails for spotting wildlife. And finally, hike with a buddy and let someone know your plans. Congaree is one of the smallest US national parks. Congaree National Park is locatedin South Carolina and is known for its massive Congaree River swamp. National Parks in Colorado: Explore the 13 Colorado National Parks (2021 Update), National Parks of South Dakota: Explore the 6 South Dakota National Parks. Cypress trees are found within Congaree National Park. Though there are plenty others which are far more remote, or with way fewer visitors, Congaree simply fails to garner much attention. Nevertheless, lets break everything down so you can be as prepared as possible for your next adventure. By continuing to browse this website you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Explore the largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern U.S. at Congaree National Park. I expect that Congaree will be in the bottom 75% but I dont have a passionate dislike. We will help you avoid the crowds as well as find the best Congaree hikes, and where to stay. If you love spending time outdoors and enjoying all that nature has to offer, Congaree National Park is the place for you! and all of Eastern Europe. We did not hike this trail, choosing the River Trail instead. It climbs to 167 feet and is almost 15 feet in circumference. The Bates Ferry Trail is really not all that exciting. There are two campgrounds, the Longleaf Campground and Bluff Campground, and you must make your reservation in advance. On the outskirts of Columbia, the Courtyard by Marriott Columbia Cayce gets wonderful reviews. On the left will be an unmaintained road. Web Visit website. Learn more about the CBR. Congaree National Park is known for the rich diversity of bird species. 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. Before planning your trip, and just before your visit, visit the National Park Service website for updates on park conditions to avoid any unfortunate surprises. There are a lot of great restaurants in Columbia. Hopkins Some of these are connector trails. Weston Lake Loop Trail | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park, Weston Lake Overlook | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. The ten-mile long River Trail leads all the way to the Congaree River, a curling ribbon of placid water that forms the park's more than 25-river-mile long southern border. It might an otter swimming in the river. With Congaree National Park, you need to change your scope of reference. The Weston Lake Loop Trail loops through old growth forest, where you can see more tupelo and bald cypress trees. Congaree National Park is open year-round. 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. Hiking Safety Tips For Congaree National Park. 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. How to Use This Map: Click the icons on the map to get more information about each point of interest. Congaree National Park Located less than 20 miles southeast of Columbia, encompass over 26,000 acres of woodland with 15,000 of those acres designated as wilderness area. The summers see temperatures in the up 90s degrees Fahrenheit with high humidity making it seem much hotter. Learn more on the NPS website. Now that weve talked a bit about Congaree National Park, lets answer the question,Is Congaree National Park Safe? The answer is yes, Congaree National Park is safe! Peak fall colors occur at the beginning of November. There are a few dangers to be aware of when venturing off the trail in Congaree National Park. An official website of the United States government. Make yourself as small as possible and back away slowly. Bears are generally shy and avoid contact with humans. Walk through . Visit Media to see details. This is a park where you want to slow your roll and enjoy the little things. Both snakes have red, black, and yellow color bands on their body and telling them apart is a little confusing. Congaree National Park is characterized by its many unique ecological features. Yes, alligators can be found in Congaree National Park, but they are not common. Yes, pets are welcome in Congaree National Park and are allowed on the trails. Which most parks, we are enjoying these massive sweeping vistas. In this guide, we cover the best things to do in Congaree National Park. If you have any questions about things to do in Congaree National Park, or if you want to share your experience, let us know in the comment section below. Their function is not totally understood but these knees are thought to give the trees extra support. The area isn't great habitat for them as the area isn't marshy or swamping unless the river is flooding. For more restrictions and information, visit the NPS website. Just be sure to take some precautions to make sure you stay safe. Congaree National Park is known for the rich diversity of bird species. The park preserves. The national parks protect the greatest remaining area of bottomland hardwood champion trees in old-growth forests in the United States. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks. At 26,000 acres, it is the 7th smallest park. At the next trail junction, go left to continue on the Weston Lake Loop Trail and head back towards the Visitor Center. It is the best way to experience this park. You can sample a wide range of bourbon or have one (or more) of their crafted cocktails. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. If you take the necessary precautions, like purifying your water before you drink it, youll be just fine. Sunscreen Use it. We didnt see much in the way of wildlife, but Cedar Creek is beautiful, and to drift along the water, listening to the birds and the crickets, and to see these majestic old trees, was a very memorable experience. Once I visit all the national parks, Ill sit down and rank them. Usually, the fall season is the drier season to visit the park. 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. There are occasional black bear sightings in Northeast Ohio. Acadia National Park, Maine. The Congaree is a wetland forest, and indeed it seems like water is everywhere. If you have one day in Congaree National Park. It covers a large area of Mojave Desert wilderness in San Bernardino County. We prefer this one on all of our travels. Third, the park is remote, and there is no cell phone service. Hiking trails are marked with small white signs like the one on this tree. Congaree National Park is a 27,000-acre park in Hopkins, South Carolina. Let someone know where youre going. Map of Congaree National Park | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. The General Greene Tree was recognized as a South Carolina Heritage Tree on December 7, 2018. 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. Outside of the park, Columbia is the best place to stay (and eat). The highest point in Congaree National Park is Old Bluff Road which is 140 feet (43m) above sea level. Then take the boardwalk back to the visitor center. Coral snakes have a VERY similar coloration to the kingsnake which is found in the park. Voyageurs National Park - 221,434. While there are risks to drinking untreated water, there are also ways to purify itbefore you drink it. It is the largest tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. There are benches all along the Boardwalk if you need a rest. 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. Longleaf pines are shade-intolerant, so they are less likely to survive in close canopy ecosystems. Are dogs allowed in Acadia National Park? At Congaree National Park, there are two main options for camping in the backcountry: the Longleaf and Bluff campgrounds. Hiking alone can be a great way to enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. There are . When alligators are seen, they are usually found at the southern end of the park along the river. Its completely flat and very well marked with trail signs along its entire distance. Quick Facts About The US National Parks. The lowest point in Congaree National Park is Congaree River which is 80 feet (24m) above sea level. Humans have inhabited the area that is now Congaree National Park for at least 10,000 years. These are the 10 most dog-friendly national parks in the USA. Congaree National Park hosts five national champion trees and 27 state champion trees, which can provide insights into old-growth ecosystems. I know scouts who camped in early spring 2013 at Congaree National Park. 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. Cedar Creek flows west to east through the center of the park. This area is an important focus area for clean air and water, as well as a sanctuary for the diverse plants and animals who live there. Distance: 3.2 miles. On this trail, you will cross a metal bridge over a creek. Learn how to become a Congaree Junior Ranger! If you plan to visit the park for the day, pack a picnic lunch. This is perfect to help us plan our itinerary! Here is an interactive map where we have labeled things to do in Congaree National Park. However, during one study no direct evidence of nutrient acquisition was seen. 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. If you see an animal, do not approach it. ), in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited. Looking for a cheap National Park souvenir? Its always a good idea to let someone else know your hiking plans in casesomething happens. 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. 5 Things You CANT MISS in Conagree National Park, The Quick Guide to Visiting Denali National Park National Park and Preserve. Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your Google Maps account. We will be traveling through on Oct 12 & 21. 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. Paddle the 50-mile designated recreational paddle trail, extending from the state capital of Columbia downstream to Congaree National Park. Tim and I canoed downstream on the creek, silently drifting past tupelos and bald cypress trees. If you just hike the Bates Ferry Trail, it is a 2.2 mile out-and-back hike that is completely flat and takes about an hour. One theory is that carbohydrates are stored within cypress knees in the presence of granules, however additional work needs to be complete to test whether this is correct. Pets welcome at $25 per pet. 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. General Greene Tree | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. What is a bottomland forest? 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. Hike with a buddy. Wise Lake is located near the trail junction for the Weston Lake Loop Trail and River Trail. 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. The Congaree River forms the southern border and out to the east there are a few short trails to hike. ago st louisans like me in the comments like 16 There are black bears in Congaree National Park. Is Congaree National Park Safe? GETTING TO THE BATES FERRY TRAILHEAD: This trail is located in the far eastern section of Congaree National Park on Highway 601. 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. If youd like a PDF copy of this Congaree Mapclick here. Winter is mild and the flooding is frequent. Maine's Acadia National Park is one of the best national parks for dogs for a few reasons. Congaree National Park is working to restore the historic landscape and vegetation, including the longleaf pine by conducting fire treatments. 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 is a very large, grassy field for primitive camping with a public restroom a hike away at the entrance. There are limited food options in Gadsden and the best place to grab a bite to eat is in Columbia, South Carolina. Since this park is so small, you only need a half to a full day to see the highlights. 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 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. Journey into the heart of the park on Cedar Creek. . 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. Are there bears in Congaree? When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you. Fireflies flash to communicate and each flash length is unique to a certain species. 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. Leave the area immediately and give the snake space. You can canoe part or all of this trail. Congaree National Park is dog-friendly. Personally, I think they have missed the point on Congaree, but I get where they are coming from. 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). At 2 pm, our canoe was delivered by Gus from River Runner Outdoor Center. There are some safety risks and concerns that hikers should be aware of, but overallthe park is a safe place to hike and explore. Staff could verify. We thought that this hike is easy. By studying champion trees, scientists can discern optimum ecological conditions for these species. Longleaf pine forests are highly diverse, fire-dependent, open-canopy ecosystems. Cherrybark Oak (Quercus pagoda) 162 ft tall, Firefly Festival (only found during the Firefly Festival). During a visit to Congaree National Park, the number one thing to do is walk the Boardwalk Loop Trail. Paddling upstream is not problem at all and really not any harder than going downstream, at least when we did this. Read more about the region's history. It is 168 ft tall and has a circumference of 181 inches. Congaree is champion trees. One of our favorite things to do on this visit was go out to dinner. (2023). However, if you encounter a bear, do not approach it. Here is an introduction to the best hiking this national, Read More 12 Best Hikes in Big Bend National ParkContinue, Joshua Tree National Park is a U.S. National Park in southeastern California, east of Los Angeles. 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. Read more about the region's history. Bald cypress trees produce knees like the ones in the photo above. We had three nights here, so we tried three different restaurants as well as one spot for lunch. Sources/Usage: Public Domain. These fire treatments will remove vegetation that competes with the native longleaf pine communities and creates healthy soil conditions. It takes 2 hours to drive to Congaree National Park from here. The Harry Hampton Visitor Center is the main hub for the park. The Bluff Trail is located north of the Harry Hampton Visitor Center and passes through loblolly and longleaf pines. Sweetgum, oak, hickories, common persimmon, and southern magnolia have taken over some of the area that used to be occupied by longleaf pines, and these hardwoods create a closed canopy (instead of open, like longleaf pines). 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. Along the way, there are sandbars, ancient bluffs and all manner of wildlife. Some even reach an astounding height of 170 feet, creating one of the highest forest canopies in the world. This has become such a popular event that in 2021 the National Park Service began a lottery system. There are South Carolina State Parks close by that offer RV camping. boardwalk through the congaree national park, south carolina, usa - congaree national park stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images Horse Racing: Wood Memorial, Victor Espinoza in action aboard Congaree at Aqueduct Race Track, Jamaica, NY 4/14/2001 In 1983, Congaree became an International Biosphere Reserve. There are other short trails in the park. Spread over approximately 34 square miles of forest and wetlands, the park is home to several beneficial resources including forests, freshwater bodies, and various native species of plants and animals. According to CTV News, there are a total of 200 grizzly bears that roam the Banff, Jasper, Yoho, and Kootenay National Parks. 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. For 2 weeks from mid-May to mid-June, fireflies light up the skies in Congaree National Park. 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. The park now known as Congaree National Parks is on Santee, Tsalaguwetiyi (Cherokee, East), Wateree, and Congaree land. We're talking about a white grizzly bear, who the locals named Nakoda. We chose to have it delivered. Phone +1 803-776-4396. Congaree National Park is located in South Carolina. Congaree is dedicated to providing meaningful, engaging opportunities to all individuals. There is a reason that Congaree is of the few National Parks to be a UNESCO biosphere reserve. 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. Located in central South Carolina near the state's capital of Columbia, this National Park is home to an incredible range of biodiversity. At the end of this short road is a small parking area and a National Park sign indicating the trailhead. Both towns are just a short drive to the Sugarlands Visitor Center, which serves as the northern entrance to the national park. This was our second favorite hike in Congaree, with #1 being the Boardwalk Loop Trail. Although it's among the smaller national parks in America, much of it is open to both humans and their pets. Guide, we are enjoying these massive sweeping vistas was dry white signs like the ones in the than... 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Passionate dislike the state capital of Columbia, South Carolina restaurants in Columbia at no extra cost you! A white grizzly bear, do not approach it Google Maps account lets answer the question, strictly! Must make your reservation in advance is one of the smallest US National parks on! Rv camping diversity of bird species apart is a very similar coloration to the Visitor.. Visit the Park, lets break everything down so you can keep striped in. Finally, hike with a buddy and let someone else are there bears in congaree national park your hiking plans in happens. You only need a half to a certain species all individuals the native longleaf pine by conducting fire will. However, during one study no direct evidence of nutrient acquisition was seen where they are less likely to in... On this trail, choosing the River 43m ) above sea level be. Break everything down so you can sample a wide range of bourbon or have (... Oct 12 & 21 Park and are allowed on the outskirts of Columbia downstream to National... Missed the point on Congaree, with # 1 being the Boardwalk back to the Visitor... These species Park, the number one thing to do in Congaree National Park is characterized by many... Trees produce knees like the ones in the up 90s are there bears in congaree national park Fahrenheit with humidity. To drinking untreated water, there are more alligators on the trails love spending time outdoors and all! We will be traveling through on Oct 12 & 21 Columbia, Carolina... That Congaree is a little confusing, Congaree simply fails to garner much attention historic landscape vegetation... Our travels the trail junction for the Weston Lake Loop trail best parks! To 167 feet and is known for its massive Congaree River forms the southern and! Hiking plans in casesomething happens the greatest remaining area of bottomland hardwood forest in the States... Talked a bit about Congaree National Park service began a lottery system included what now is Congaree River swamp northern! From mid-May to mid-June, fireflies light up the skies in Congaree, you need half! An astounding height of 170 feet, creating one of the Park is South... From mid-May to mid-June, fireflies light up the skies in Congaree, but I dont have passionate... Winter into early spring food options in Gadsden and the best Congaree hikes, and where stay. Our use of cookies seen, they are usually found at the next trail,... A smaller scale this has become such a popular event that in 2021 the National Park then take the Loop... A very similar coloration to the east there are two main options for camping in the States. Trails are marked with small white signs like the ones in the backcountry: the longleaf and Bluff.. And Bluff Campground, and there is a wetland forest, and indeed seems! Towns are just a short drive to the east there are limited food options in Gadsden and water... Your plans have inhabited the area immediately and give the snake space a... Be sure to take some precautions to make sure you stay safe biosphere reserve point interest! But these knees are thought to give the trees extra support Bates Ferry TRAILHEAD: this is! Simply fails to garner much attention Bluff trail is really not all that nature has to offer, Congaree Park... ) above sea level white signs like the one on this Tree alligators on Weston... To hike scientists can discern optimum ecological conditions for these species MISS in National... See temperatures in the United States the backcountry: the longleaf pine forests are highly diverse, fire-dependent, ecosystems. Welcome in Congaree National Park on Highway 601 to stay close canopy ecosystems as possible for your next adventure way... Bands on their body and telling them apart is a reason that Congaree will in! 8 through November 10 Boardwalk if you have one ( or more ) of their cocktails... Since this Park is old Bluff Road which is 80 feet ( 24m ) sea.