Congaree can be hot & humid from late spring through early fall. Be sure that you & your party (including pets) have adequate water & choose activities that fit your level of physical fitness. Consider visiting early in the morning when it is cooler.

Being Prepared for Excessive Heat & Humidity

Trees down across Cedar Creek between Bannister's Bridge and South Cedar Creek may require significant portages depending on water levels & paddlers should plan accordingly. All paddlers should have necessary equipment, including the 10 Essentials.

Paddling Conditions

GPS is necessary on backcountry trails: Oakridge, Boggy Gut (formerly River), and Kingsnake. These trails may be difficult to follow.

Backcountry Trail Conditions

If being dropped off at the park, please ensure you will have a return ride. Taxis and rideshares do not often come out to Congaree, and the bus may be unavailable. Please plan ahead.

Planning Ahead for Transportation

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.

A view of a bottomland/floodplain forest, with wide based cypress and tupelo trees, cypress knees

Floodplain Forest

Barred Owl on Harry Hampton Visitor Center Roof

View of the Congaree River during the Fall

Congaree River

Two people in a canoe on a narrow creek surrounded by forest

Canoeing Cedar Creek

A very large tree surrounded by smaller trees in a forest

Loblolly Pine

Congaree

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.

Congaree

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