Home » Parks » Congaree National Park
View of Congaree National Park
National Park South Carolina

Congaree National Park

About

Nestled within the Southeastern United States, Congaree National Park beckons with its remarkable biodiversity. This enchanting park stands as a testament to nature's resilience, boasting the largest expanse of untouched old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the region. Flowing gracefully through the park, the waters of the Congaree and Wateree Rivers breathe life into the floodplain, enriching the land with vital nutrients and sediments that sustain a thriving ecosystem. Visitors to Congaree National Park are greeted by a mesmerizing landscape where towering national and state champion trees reach for the sky, their majestic presence a testament to the resilience of this unique wilderness. As you explore the park's lush trails and tranquil waters, you'll witness firsthand the delicate balance of nature at work, offering a glimpse into the intricate web of life that thrives within this natural sanctuary. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat into the heart of the wilderness, Congaree National Park promises an unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in the beauty of this untouched paradise, where every step unveils a new wonder and every moment brings you closer to the awe-inspiring harmony of the natural world. Discover the magic of Congaree National Park and let its wild spirit captivate your senses, leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Directions

How to Get to Congaree National Park: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

How to Reach Congaree National Park: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Setting Out

Embarking on your journey from Interstate 77, you'll want to take Exit 5. This is where your adventure to Congaree National Park truly begins.

On the Road

Upon exiting, make your way onto SC Hwy 48 East, more commonly known as Bluff Road. Watch out for the brown and white signs that read "Congaree National Park" - they're your guiding stars, leading you directly to the park. You'll need to travel approximately 8 miles on this road.

The Final Stretch

Keep an eye out for a slight right turn onto Old Bluff Road. This charming rural route will take you the remaining 4.5 miles right to the doorstep of Congaree National Park. Be on the lookout for the park entrance sign, majestically standing on the right side of the road.

Arriving at Congaree National Park

Once you've spotted the sign, continue on for just one more mile until you reach the Harry Hampton Visitor Center. Ample parking lots are conveniently situated on the right, ready to welcome your vehicle as you step out to embrace the wonders of Congaree National Park.

Address

For your convenience, the address of Congaree National Park is: 100 National Park Road, Hopkins, SC 29061. Safe travels and enjoy your adventure!

Get detailed directions »

Location

Located in Columbia

Weather Information

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.

Gallery

Congaree National Park - Image 1
Congaree National Park - Image 2
Congaree National Park - Image 3
Congaree National Park - Image 4
Congaree National Park - Image 5

Quick Facts

Activities

Camping Backcountry Camping Canoe or Kayak Camping Car or Front Country Camping Group Camping Fishing Freshwater Fishing Food Picnicking Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Hands-On Citizen Science Volunteer Vacation Hiking Backcountry Hiking Front-Country Hiking Off-Trail Permitted Hiking Paddling Canoeing Kayaking Junior Ranger Program Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store

Topics

African American Heritage American Revolution Archeology Arts Painting Photography Poetry and Literature Colonization and Settlement Enslavement Explorers and Expeditions Farming and Agriculture Hispanic American Heritage Incarceration Industry Logging and Timber Cutting Native American Heritage Reconstruction Religion and Spirituality Schools and Education Science Technology and Innovation Social Movements Conservation Movement Transportation Bridges Roads Routes and Highways Wars and Conflicts Colonial/European Contact Conflicts American Revolutionary War Civil War Animals Alligators or Crocodiles Birds Cats (wild) Fish Tortoises and Turtles Climate Change Forests and Woodlands Geology Groundwater Lakes Natural Sounds Night Sky Astronomy River and Riparian Scenic Views Trails Water Trails Unique Species Rare Endangered Watersheds Wetlands Swamps Wilderness

Plan Your Visit

Ready to explore Congaree National Park? Learn more about the park, plan your trip, and discover the natural wonders that await you.

Visit Official Website