Congaree National Park
Best Time to Visit
Congaree National Park is located in the Midlands region of South Carolina. The park is open year-round. Although summer is very hot, winter is mild. Hence, spring and fall are the best times to visit the park, when the temperature is moderate and comfortable.
Spring
Spring starts in March and ends in May. The temperature is normally warm, often reaching the mid to upper 70s. Precipitation is common in spring without thunderstorms, with an average rainfall of 3 inches per month. The outbreak of insects can be avoided during this time.
Summer
Summer is characterized by hot temperatures and high humidity. June to August are the hot months, with average temperatures in the upper 90s, sometimes exceeding 100 degrees. Because of the high humidity level, it feels much hotter than the actual temperature. High rainfall and thunderstorms are common, often occurring unexpectedly. The average monthly precipitation is around 4.5 inches.
Autumn
September to November is another favorable season to visit the park. The fall is notable for its colors from late October to early November. The temperature is mild, with average daily temperatures in the 70s and low humidity. Rainfall is approximately 3 inches per month. However, the water level is suitable for a paddling trip on Cedar Creek.
Winter
Winter brings mild temperatures with average daytime highs in the mid-50s, but the nights can be freezing. Winter runs from November to February. Snow is not significant but can occur occasionally. Winter is not a time of heavy rainfall, though flooding can happen anytime. Rainfall in the upstate of South Carolina can increase water levels, causing flooding. If you plan to visit the park in winter, be prepared with appropriate clothing.
Main Attractions of the Park
Boardwalk Loop Trail
This easy 2.6-mile loop trail starts from Harry Hampton Visitor Center and covers some of the park’s best viewing areas. The trail is elevated from the bottomland, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. The giant tupelos and bald cypress trees standing in the water are outstanding features. You can get a brochure from the Visitor Center for a self-guided tour.
Cedar Creek
Cedar Creek is perfect for kayaking or canoeing, providing an unforgettable experience. It is a slow-moving creek, making upstream and downstream travel convenient. However, changing water levels and downed trees can create obstacles. You can rent a canoe from River Runner Outdoor Center and either pick it up from their office or directly at the canoe launch. The Cedar Creek Canoe Trail (15 miles) and the Congaree River Blue Trail (50 miles) offer more opportunities to explore.
Weston Lake Loop Trail
This 4.5-mile easy flat trail loops through an old-growth forest with more tupelo and bald cypress trees. The best way to hike it is to start from the Boardwalk, follow the trail junction signs to Weston Lake, and then continue alongside Cedar Creek.
Wise Lake
The view of Wise Lake is fabulous throughout the park. It is located near the trail junction of the Weston Lake Loop Trail and River Trail. Enjoy the surrounding old-growth trees. Walk about 0.6 miles from the Boardwalk Loop Trail to the Weston Lake Loop Trail until you reach the trail junction through the River Trail. Follow the signs to get to Wise Lake
Harry Hampton Visitor Center
Many trailheads start from the Visitor Center, which provides:
- Weather information
- Bug conditions
- Bathrooms
- Water fountains
- Nature exhibits
- Rangers
- Picnic tables
Synchronized Fireflies Viewing
The best time to see synchronized fireflies is in May or early June. For a couple of weeks, thousands of synchronous lightning bugs create a breathtaking light show. Special evening events are organized by the park to enjoy this. The fireflies of Congaree National Park are one of the three species in America that synchronize their light. An event pass or tickets are required to view the synchronization, with only 130 vehicles allowed.
Things to Do
- Visit Harry Hampton Visitor Center
- Picnicking
- Guided tours
- Fishing
- Canoeing or kayaking
- Notice the trees and plant life
- Synchronized firefly viewing
- The Owl Prowl evening hike
- Birdwatching
- Wildlife viewing
- Camping
- Hiking
Hiking Trails
- Boardwalk Loop
- Weston Lake Loop Trail
- Oakridge Trail
- Sims Trail
- Bates Ferry Trail
- Kingsnake Trail
- River Trail
- Bluff Trail
- Cedar Creek Paddle Route
- Fork Swamp Trail
Basic Information
Congaree National Park was established on November 10, 2003. It is also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. In 2023, 250,000 people visited Congaree National Park, making it the 13th least visited park in the United States. It covers an area of 26,000 acres, the 7th smallest park. The park is home to the tallest loblolly pines, bald cypress trees, tupelo trees, various fish, amphibians, deer, raccoons, feral pigs, bobcats, snakes, and birds. The old-growth bottomland hardwood forest is protected here, featuring some of the highest temperate deciduous forest canopies in the world.
How to Get There
Driving distances from various locations are:
- Columbia, South Carolina: 18 miles
- Charleston, South Carolina: 105 miles
- Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: 130 miles
- Charlotte, North Carolina: 112 miles
- Asheville, North Carolina: 180 miles
- Savannah, Georgia: 150 miles
- Augusta, Georgia: 90 miles
The nearest airport to Congaree National Park is Columbia Metropolitan Airport, only 30 minutes from the park.
Accommodations and Entry Fees
The accommodation facilities within the park are tent camping. There are two campgrounds requiring advance reservations:
- Longleaf Campground
- Bluff Campground
There are no entry fees for the park.
Pros and Cons of Visiting the Park
Pros:
- Easy to reach
- Attractive trails
- Kayaking or canoeing
Cons:
- Frequency of flooding
- Small area
Achievements and Suggestions
Congaree National Park is famous for its old-growth trees, some over 500 years old. There are abundant opportunities to drift on the water, with kayaking being a popular activity. The services at the Visitor Center are very helpful. However, be cautious about flooding as Congaree sits on a floodplain, and be aware of mosquitoes and other biting insects. Wear appropriate clothing to avoid them.
