National Park · South Carolina
Congaree National Park
Astonishing biodiversity exists in Congaree National Park, 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 national and state champion trees.
Things to do
- 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
- Canoe or Kayak Camping
- Kayaking
- Junior Ranger Program
- Museum Exhibits
Weather & when to go
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.
Operating hours
Congaree Operating Hours (Not Visitor Center Hours)
Congaree National Park is generally open 24 hours a day year-round. For visitor and staff safety, park operations and/or weather conditions may occasionally result in short term, temporary closures. Please review the park webpage and social media platforms for more information. The Harry Hampton Visitor Center is open 9-5, daily. It is closed New Year's Day, President's Day, Columbus Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day. Please check alerts prior to your visit.
Campgrounds
Longleaf Campground
Bluff Campground
FAQ
- Is Congaree National Park free to visit?
- Congaree National Park does not charge a standard entrance fee. Check the official NPS page for the latest details on any activity or permit fees before you go.
- What are the hours at Congaree National Park?
- Congaree National Park is generally open 24 hours a day year-round. For visitor and staff safety, park operations and/or weather conditions may occasionally result in short term, temporary closures. Please review the park webpage and social media platforms for more information. The Harry Hampton Visitor Center is ope…
- Do I need a reservation for Congaree National Park?
- No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter Congaree National Park. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.
Related guides
Trip plans and deep-dives from the PeepTrip blog featuring Congaree National Park.
Best Hikes in Congaree National Park: Top Trails
A trail-by-trail guide to hiking Congaree National Park, home to one of the tallest old-growth hardwood forests left in North America.
National Parks in South Carolina: Complete Guide
South Carolina has one national park, Congaree, plus seven other National Park Service sites. Here is what each one offers and how to build a trip around them.
National Parks Near Charlotte, NC
The closest national parks to Charlotte, from the Great Smoky Mountains to Congaree, with drive times and day-trip tips.
National Parks Near Atlanta: Best Weekend Trips
The national parks within driving distance of Atlanta — real drive times, what each is known for, and how to plan the trip.
Keep exploring
More parks in South Carolina.