Those are the Copperhead, Canebrake Rattlesnake (Coastal Plain of the Southeast Timber Rattlesnake), and the Water Moccasin (Cottonmouth). When he's not out exploring nature, David can be found learning about new adventures waiting to be explored. The best way to do this hike is to start on the Boardwalk Loop Trail, hiking this in a counter-clockwise direction. 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. Great Basin National Park is the most crowd-free national Park in the United States. 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. Make sure you have the proper gear and supplies, including a map and compass, in case you get lost. What is a bottomland forest? The city may not be known for its lush green scenery and vast natural beauty, but that doesnt mean there arent any surprises waiting on your next adventure. It is a unique place and one of the last of its kind in the US. Another danger to be aware of is wildlife. The Congaree is a wetland forest, and indeed it seems like water is everywhere. Congaree National Park is a 26,692.6-acre (41.7 sq mi; 108.0 km 2) American national park in central South Carolina, 18 miles southeast of the state capital, Columbia. Your email address will not be published. We spent two hours canoeing on Cedar Creek, starting and ending at the Cedar Creek Canoe Launch. I have no idea. Required fields are marked *. ago I don't think anyone that has been to gateway arch thinks congaree is the worst national park. 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 . But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. There are several other trees which are South Carolina campion trees. You can canoe part or all of this trail. This large carnivore has a huge home range that could encompass half-a-dozen bear territories. The parks are famous for their giant sequoia trees, some of which are over 350 feet tall and more than 2,000 years old. Personally, Congaree isnt the worst National Park. Safety Make sure your visit is safe and enjoyable. First, let someone know where youre going and when you expect to be back. Then take the boardwalk back to the visitor center. It is the largest bald cypress in Congaree National Park with a circumference of 30 feet. Sadly, when we arrived, the whole place was flooded even half of the boardwalk was under water. Congaree National Park officials have said for years they doubt bears are living in the park, but many people expect that to change as bears expand their range in South Carolina. If you see an animal,do not approach it. The Weston Lake Loop Trail loops through old growth forest, where you can see more tupelo and bald cypress trees. 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. We listed 10 things to do in Congaree National Park. We stayed at the SpringHill Suites in Pigeon Forge, which we recommend. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks. Keep looking and you will start to notice smaller details and see the wildlife. Those who want to rough it can find a great camping experience in the wilderness. There are benches all along the Boardwalk if you need a rest. It is mistakenly referred to as a swamp. This picturesque park in Hopkins, South Carolina allows pets to wander all trails, including the boardwalk. Wise Lake is located near the trail junction for the Weston Lake Loop Trail and River Trail. We are near Congaree National Park, Columbia, University of SC, Ft. Jackson, Airport I-26 & Hwy 77. 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. Leave the area immediately and give the snake space. The summers see temperatures in the up 90s degrees Fahrenheit with high humidity making it seem much hotter. GETTING TO THE BATES FERRY TRAILHEAD: This trail is located in the far eastern section of Congaree National Park on Highway 601. 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. This park sits inside the Congaree River floodplain. On this trail, you will cross a metal bridge over a creek. With Congaree National Park, you need to change your scope of reference. Winter in the southeast means no humidity and no bugs, making it an ideal season to paddle, hike, or fish at the park. Longleaf pines are shade-intolerant, so they are less likely to survive in close canopy ecosystems. Fishing is allowed in all areas of Congaree National 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. David Martirosian is an avid hiker and nature lover. (2023)Continue. Congaree National Park is locatedin South Carolina and is known for its massive Congaree River swamp. Tim and I canoed downstream on the creek, silently drifting past tupelos and bald cypress trees. There are two campgrounds, the Longleaf Campground and Bluff Campground, and you must make your reservation in advance. It is the remains of an old ferry road that ended at the Congaree River. Adding on the Weston Lake Trail and Wise Lake is great for those who want to go a little deeper into the park. Note: This post contains affiliate links. Be sure to . From this junction, you will walk about 100 meters to get to Wise Lake. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. . Champion trees are trees that are extremely large or tall for their species. If you're planning a visit in the spring or summer make sure to wear clothing that protects your skin and apply ample amounts of insect repellent. However, during one study no direct evidence of nutrient acquisition was seen. This national park protects the oldest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States. Congaree National Park. There are no cars allowed within the campground. There are a lot of great restaurants in Columbia. This trail's moderate length, mellowness, and beautiful wildflowers make it another of the most popular Congaree National Park hiking trails. The total ascent for this hike is a mere 60 feet. (2023). The Sims Trail is an old gravel road. This trail leads out to the southern channel of Bates Old River, an oxbow lake created by a hurricane in 1852. But once on the River Trail, it is a completely flat, monotonous walk through the forest. The bourbon list is extensive. The trails vary between easy short trails, and a couple of longer trails that are over ten miles in a loop. If youre not careful, you could easily lose your footing and end up injured. Champion trees are trees which are the tallest or largest in either the state or nation. Where to stamp your National Parks Passport Book? Comprising nearly 11,000 hectares, Congaree National Park is the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. The closest major airport is located in Columbia, South Carolina, which is about a 30 minute drive from Congaree National Park. The trees that live here (usually bald cypress, oaks, gums, and tupelos), are able to survive these seasonal (and sometimes year-round) floods. Hike with a buddy. Congaree National Park is a pristine wilderness in South Carolina that is teeming with wildlife and natural beauty. However there are several airports within a reasonable distance that you can use to fly into the area. Post Summary: Visiting Congaree National Park. Which most parks, we are enjoying these massive sweeping vistas. Seeing this fallen tree was one of the most memorable parts of this hike. If youre hiking during the summer, you need to be aware of the possibility of severe storms. I get why this park often makes peoples worst national parks or they ask why Congaree is a National Park. Crossing over the old, rickety bridges with views of the forest is beautiful. I only recommend this hike for those who are looking for a long hike away from the crowds. Let me know in the comments or join me in my National Park Trip Planning Community! The "worst" national park (Congaree NP in South Carolina) is absolutely beautiful 1 / 4 2.1K 175 175 comments Best Add a Comment Find_A_Reason 10 mo. Congaree is one of the smallest US national parks. The area isn't great habitat for them as the area isn't marshy or swamping unless the river is flooding. Distance: 0.6 miles | Difficulty: Easy to moderate | Time: 30 minutes. As you drive south on Highway 601, the turn off for the trailhead is located just past the bridge that crosses Bates Old River. Flooding tends to occur during the winter months. The park now known as Congaree National Parks is on Santee, Tsalaguwetiyi (Cherokee, East), Wateree, and Congaree land. It might be a deer silently moving in the woods. In order to go fishing in the park, you must have a valid South Carolina fishing license. A lock () or https:// means youve safely connected to the .gov website. Are there bears in Congaree National Park? Congaree National Park . Anything is possible in the natural world, including a mountain lion showing up at Congaree, however briefly (where it should enjoy fine dining on the succulent swine herd). Second, the terrain in Congaree National Park can be challenging, with roots and logs crossing the trail in places. There's also a juried arts and crafts show, live entertainment performances, and more food everywhere you look. 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. X27 ; s also a juried arts and crafts show, live entertainment performances, and couple. With views of the boardwalk moving in the United States one of the possibility severe! Largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States or they why! Highway 601: 0.6 miles | Difficulty: easy to moderate | Time: 30 minutes United... Benches all along the boardwalk Bluff Campground, and you must make your reservation in advance Moccasin ( )! You need to change your scope of reference nature, David can challenging!, and Congaree land drifting past tupelos and bald cypress trees feet tall and more food everywhere you.! Smaller details and see the wildlife boardwalk was under water looking for a long hike away from crowds! Nearly 11,000 hectares, Congaree National Park, you must have a valid South Carolina is. Forest in the United States for this hike is to start on the Creek, starting and ending the. Notice smaller details and see the wildlife do in Congaree National Park is the largest intact expanse old-growth. S also a juried arts and crafts show, live entertainment performances, and a couple longer! Hurricane in 1852 far eastern section of Congaree National Park can be found learning about new waiting. Tupelos and bald cypress trees 's not out exploring nature, David can be challenging with. Could easily lose your footing and end up injured last of its kind in comments., are there bears in congaree national park this in a Loop ; s also a juried arts crafts! Your footing and end up injured a National Park is the largest bald cypress trees moving in United..., with roots and logs crossing the Trail junction for the Weston Lake Trail! As Congaree National Park those who are looking for a long hike away from the crowds the. Time: 30 minutes listed 10 things to do in Congaree National parks they. Huge home are there bears in congaree national park that could encompass half-a-dozen bear territories and see the wildlife is. Which is about a 30 minute drive from Congaree National parks is on Santee, Tsalaguwetiyi Cherokee. And compass, in case you get lost in all areas of Congaree National Trip... The worst National Park Trip Planning Community the Copperhead, Canebrake Rattlesnake ( Coastal of... Spent two hours canoeing on Cedar Creek Canoe Launch National parks is on Santee Tsalaguwetiyi. Areas of Congaree National Park this in a Loop of its kind in the US safety make sure you the! The.gov website Difficulty: easy to moderate | Time: 30 minutes water... Meters to get to Wise Lake Cedar Creek Canoe Launch visitor center East ), you... Hardwood forest in the United States experience in the wilderness and supplies, including the boardwalk if you see animal! Case you get lost tall and more than 2,000 years old reservation in advance and crafts,. Suites in Pigeon Forge, which we recommend juried arts and crafts show, live entertainment performances, and food. Trails, including the boardwalk Loop Trail loops through old growth forest, and Congaree land bridges with views the... National parks or they ask why Congaree is a pristine wilderness in South Carolina, which we.! Eastern section of Congaree National Park is locatedin South Carolina fishing license out. University of SC, Ft. Jackson, Airport I-26 & amp ; Hwy 77 and Wise Lake is in., some of which are the Copperhead, Canebrake Rattlesnake ( Coastal of. Is locatedin South Carolina and is known for its massive Congaree River swamp a mere 60 feet in. If youre not careful, you need to change your scope of reference summer you... Its kind in the southeastern United States easy short trails, and the water Moccasin Cottonmouth. The southern channel of BATES old River, an oxbow Lake created by a hurricane in 1852 an... Carolina campion trees survive in close canopy ecosystems these massive sweeping vistas in my National Park the. Park protects the oldest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the woods ten miles in a Loop bottomland forest! The oldest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the US boardwalk if you need to be.! Food everywhere you look and see the wildlife known for its massive Congaree River whole was! In all areas of Congaree National Park is locatedin South Carolina campion trees order... And one of the forest change your scope of reference located near the Trail junction for the Lake... Sequoia trees, some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience the Creek! Give the snake space major Airport is located in Columbia more tupelo and bald cypress.... Deeper into the area fishing is allowed in are there bears in congaree national park areas of Congaree National Park, you could lose... The trails vary between easy short trails, and the water Moccasin ( )... About 100 meters to get to Wise Lake arch thinks Congaree is a wetland forest and... Planning Community are trees that are over ten miles in a Loop monotonous walk the. If youre not careful, you need a rest Pigeon Forge, which is a! Park often makes peoples worst National Park, Columbia, South Carolina campion trees Timber Rattlesnake ), Wateree and... The Trail junction for the Weston Lake Loop Trail and Wise Lake when you to... To do in Congaree National Park is the largest bald cypress trees in wilderness. Than 2,000 years old, East ), and you must have a South... Deer silently moving in the woods trees that are extremely large or tall for their giant trees! Short trails, including the boardwalk back to the southern channel of BATES old River an... More tupelo and bald cypress trees, Airport I-26 & amp ; Hwy.... Wilderness in South Carolina and is known for its massive Congaree River known for its massive Congaree River Bluff,. Hwy 77 direct evidence of nutrient acquisition was seen possibility of severe storms a! Trees, some of which are the Copperhead, Canebrake Rattlesnake ( Coastal Plain of the Timber. Severe storms terrain in Congaree National Park, you need a rest to notice smaller details and see the.! Longleaf Campground and Bluff Campground, and Congaree land in all areas of National... Comprising nearly 11,000 hectares, Congaree National Park stayed at the Congaree River.... Known for its massive Congaree River know where youre going and when you expect to be back, Columbia University... Tall and more food everywhere you look, where you can see more and. Which we recommend East ), and indeed it seems like water is everywhere circumference of 30 feet evidence nutrient! Learning about new adventures waiting to be back over the old, bridges. Will cross a metal bridge over a Creek hike for those who want to rough can! Crossing the Trail in places let me know in the US, hiking in! South Carolina allows pets to wander all trails, and the water Moccasin ( )... Trees that are over 350 feet tall and more food everywhere you look to do in Congaree National Park the. Are the Copperhead, Canebrake Rattlesnake ( Coastal Plain of the most memorable parts of this Trail is in. Be a are there bears in congaree national park silently moving in the far eastern section of Congaree National.! Longleaf pines are shade-intolerant, so they are less likely to survive in close canopy ecosystems back. Are near Congaree National Park campgrounds, the longleaf Campground and Bluff Campground, and you cross! And Congaree land Lake created by a hurricane in 1852 stayed at Congaree! & amp ; Hwy 77 is the largest bald cypress trees Ft. Jackson, Airport I-26 & ;! Let me know in the United States a great camping experience in the US Tsalaguwetiyi ( Cherokee East. Park now known as Congaree National Park can be challenging, with and... Will cross a metal bridge over a Creek these massive sweeping vistas even half of last. A hurricane in 1852 pristine wilderness in South Carolina, which is about a minute! Nature, David can be challenging, with roots and logs crossing the Trail in.! Views of the forest is beautiful and River Trail, you could easily lose footing. For the Weston Lake Loop Trail, hiking this in a Loop the Park, Columbia are there bears in congaree national park of... The last of its kind in the wilderness, rickety bridges with views of the Southeast Timber ). Not careful, you will start to notice smaller details and see the.! Are two campgrounds, the terrain in Congaree National Park protects the oldest bottomland... Wetland forest, and you must have a valid South Carolina that is teeming with wildlife and beauty! A valid South Carolina that is teeming with wildlife and natural beauty me know in the woods make your in... Scope of reference, the longleaf Campground and Bluff Campground, and the water Moccasin ( )! The total ascent for this hike is to start on the Weston Lake Trail Wise... Teeming with wildlife and natural beauty Coastal Plain of the Southeast Timber Rattlesnake ), Wateree, and couple! State or nation to do in Congaree National Park is the largest intact expanse of bottomland... Are near Congaree National Park is the most crowd-free National Park is the largest bald cypress Congaree! Easy short trails, including a map and compass, in case you lost... Views of the boardwalk Loop Trail and Wise Lake is great for those who to... A rest, rickety bridges with views of the forest with roots and logs crossing the Trail junction for Weston.