Congaree National Park |
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100 National Park Rd Hopkins, SC 29061(803) 776-4396 |
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Originally designated as Congaree Swamp National Monument, Congaree National Park contains thousands of acres of old-growth floodplain forest, the largest remaining area of this forest type in North America. Some of the tallest trees in the state are located within this park, where traveling by canoe is the best way to get around. There are some 20 miles of hiking trails that wind through the forest, with the Boardwalk Loop running 2.4 miles and offering an easy, raised pathway through the swamp. Other trails require more careful footing and journey deeper into the forest, but the reward is an even better chance of seeing wildlife and sights of the varied ecological systems within the park. Bring your own canoe to journey solo through the watery regions of the park or sign up for one of the free guided canoe tours which provide further information about the natural history of the park and its inhabitants. Primitive camping affords the opportunity for extensive adventures for dedicated outdoor adventurers, but most visitors will opt for a day trip as the city of Columbia is located only about 17 miles to the northwest and plenty of cozy hotels await.
Open daily year round. Visitor center open mid-Mar - early Nov: Mon. - Thurs. 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Fri. - Sun. 8:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.; early Nov - mid-Mar: daily 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Free.
Hotels
Columbia-Ft. Jackson, 11.6 miles from Congaree National Park Candlewood Suites COLUMBIA-FT. JACKSON, 11.6 miles from Congaree National Park
