The Fork Swamp Trail is located near the Bates Ferry Trail, so this hike is worth doing if you will be out this way. Congaree National Park was created on October 18, 1976, as a Congaree Swamp National Monument. These are the 10 most dog-friendly national parks in the USA. The cost is minimal, a $5.00 . Make yourself as small as possible and back away slowly. It is the best way to experience this park. The Firefly Trail is a flat trail that runs through the woods just to the south of the visitor center. The park is also home to some dangers that hikers and outdoor lovers should be aware of before they venture out.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'hikersdaily_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_1',164,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-hikersdaily_com-medrectangle-4-0'); One of the biggest dangers at Congaree National Park is the terrain. It is 168 ft tall and has a circumference of 181 inches. There are very few places in the park where you can travel more than a half-mile in one direction without having to cross a pond, lake, creek, seasonal channel (locally called a gut), slough, wet flat, or muck swamp. Republishing this articleand/orany of its contents (text, photography, etc. We are near Congaree National Park, Columbia, University of SC, Ft. Jackson, Airport I-26 & Hwy 77. Hotels near Congaree National Park: (14.38 km) PRIVATE Half a House between Columbia and Sumter, SC. These trees contain cypress knees which are distinctive cone-shaped structure that form above the roots of a cypress tree that can be seen on the surface. If you want to see the synchronous fireflies, plan your visit for the end of May to early June. Learn more about available resources. Another hypothesis is that cypress knees provide mechanical support that acts as an anchor during fluctuating water levels. Julie Last updated: July 2, 2022 United States 6 Comments. Congaree National Park is in the Middle Atlantic coastal region and has a humid subtropical climate. From this junction, you will walk about 100 meters to get to Wise Lake. In fact, it was our favorite experience here. Are there snakes in Congaree National Park? The summers see temperatures in the up 90s degrees Fahrenheit with high humidity making it seem much hotter. Those in search of solitude will find it while wandering deep into the glaciated peaks and jungles of Olympic National Park, while rock climbers from around the world will challenge themselves. Cheers, Julie. We will be traveling through on Oct 12 & 21. When we did this hike, it was dry and the trail was very easy to hike (it is completely flat). To the right is a metal trail marker with a #7 on it. These fire treatments will remove vegetation that competes with the native longleaf pine communities and creates healthy soil conditions. We had to postpone our trip several times since many of the trails flooded and closed right before our visit. Entrance Fee: There is no fee to enter Congaree National Park. Expert Answers: Congaree National Park is a 26,276-acre American national park in central South Carolina, 18 miles southeast of the state capital, Columbia. When he's not out exploring nature, David can be found learning about new adventures waiting to be explored. Visit Media to see details. South Carolina's Congaree National Park is a wilderness unlike any other. Learn more here. Make sure you have the proper gear and supplies, including a map and compass, in case you get lost. If you have two days in Congaree National Park, Get updates on road conditions and trail closures, as you plan your trip and just before your visit, on the. Both towns are just a short drive to the Sugarlands Visitor Center, which serves as the northern entrance to the national park. There are 2 official stamps in Congaree National Park. But Im just one National Park Obsessed person and I think the worst National Park is Gateway Arch. It's also one of the best family-friendly trails for spotting wildlife. Below is a map from the National Park Service. Congaree National Park hosts five national champion trees and 27 state champion trees, which can provide insights into old-growth ecosystems. Spread over a whopping 26,000 acres of land on the low-lying floodplains of South Carolina, it's a strange and unique place. (The park was originally designated Congaree Swamp National Monument in 1976.) GETTING TO THE BATES FERRY TRAILHEAD: This trail is located in the far eastern section of Congaree National Park on Highway 601. Learn how your comment data is processed. The park has mild winters with warm, wet summers. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. The ramen noodle soups and dumplings are delicious. Newest US National Park: New River Gorge in West Virginia, which was established in 2020. Its well worth it, as it points out both natural and historical sights along the trail. The best time to visit Congaree National Park is in the spring and the fall. PRO TRAVEL TIP: This park floods on a regular basis. While the park is easily accessible by car, it does not have its own airport. Second, be aware of your surroundings. Walk the Boardwalk Loop Trail. There are no restaurants in Congaree National Park. This is where the majority of the hiking trails start, including the wonderful Boardwalk Loop Trail. Champion trees are trees which are the tallest or largest in either the state or nation. Largest US National Park: Wrangell-St. Elias in Alaska, which measures 13.2 million acres. Plan your hike into the Congaree wilderness. Difficulty: Easy. There are benches all along the Boardwalk if you need a rest. The Congaree River forms the southern border and out to the east there are a few short trails to hike. Bear with govt while we sort out nation's finances, PM tells civil servants over salary review . If you have one day in Congaree National Park, spend half a day hiking the Boardwalk Loop Trail and Weston Lake Trail and spend half of a day canoeing or kayaking on Cedar Creek. (5.40 km) Cottage Tree House B&B (5.59 km) Gypsy camper (10.03 km) A Charming Country Cottage Nestled in the Woods (14.31 km) B & B Kampground; View all hotels near Congaree National Park on Tripadvisor This lake is surrounded by old growth trees. Congaree National Park is dog-friendly. As water levels change, you could have obstacles along the creek that impede your progress. Colas Restaurant, Mr. Friendlys New Southern, Alodias Cucina Italiana (located outside of Columbia), and Midwood Smokehouse also get very good reviews. Located at the confluence of the . At Congaree National Park, there are two main options for camping in the backcountry: the Longleaf and Bluff campgrounds. Their function is not totally understood but these knees are thought to give the trees extra support. David enjoys the peace and solitude that nature provides, and finds solace in the beauty of the natural world. One of Acadia's main attractions is its historic carriage roads on Mount Desert Island, which now serve as hiking and cycling trails. Be sure to . There are two campgrounds, the Longleaf Campground and Bluff Campground, and you must make your reservation in advance. There are South Carolina State Parks close by that offer RV camping. Hiking and being in parks at night can be dangerous because of the low visibility, more wildlife out at night, and other general safety concerns. Visitation peaks from March to May. However there are several airports within a reasonable distance that you can use to fly into the area. There are some safety risks and concerns that hikers should be aware of, but overallthe park is a safe place to hike and explore. The trees that grow here are some of the tallest in the eastern US and this is one of the highest temperate deciduous forest canopies in the world. It covers an area of 26,276 acres and is known for its stunning views, deep canyons, and unique geological formations. This trail leads out to the southern channel of Bates Old River, an oxbow lake created by a hurricane in 1852. Congaree encounters Today, South Carolina has an estimated 1,200 resident black bears. Along the way, there are sandbars, ancient bluffs and all manner of wildlife. Your email address will not be published. Virgin . Sunscreen Use it. . Is it worth going to Congaree National Park? Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona. There are around 75 types of trees, nearly 200 species of birds, 75 species of reptiles/amphibians, and more than 50 species of fish and butterflies. How Much Time Should I Spend Visiting Denali National Park? Looking for a cheap National Park souvenir? We will help you avoid the crowds as well as find the best Congaree hikes, and where to stay. It contains three state-listed species of concern, including the bald eagle, American swallow-tailed kites, and wood stork, with 30 other priority species. It might be a deer silently moving in the woods. Seeing Wise Lake is also very nice. If youre not careful, you could quickly end up as prey. In order to go fishing in the park, you must have a valid South Carolina fishing license. Its the most upscale restaurant listed here and a nice option if you are looking for a fine dining experience. 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. Congaree National Park protects the oldest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States. Which is honestly a shame, since it's one of the best parks to see in the fall! Leave the area immediately and give the snake space. When the trail rejoins with the boardwalk, walk out to the viewpoint of Weston Lake. Welcome to the Congaree National Park - the largest national park of virgin bottomland forest in the whole of the United States. In 2003, it was designated an Important Bird Area. boardwalk through the congaree national park, south carolina, usa - congaree national park stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images Horse Racing: Wood Memorial, Victor Espinoza in action aboard Congaree at Aqueduct Race Track, Jamaica, NY 4/14/2001 Check conditions here! Longleaf pines are shade-intolerant, so they are less likely to survive in close canopy ecosystems. These tablets are easy to carry with you on your hike and only requireadding them to the water and waiting a few minutes for them to work. You can canoe part or all of this trail. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. GETTING HERE: On Google Maps, the trailhead is labeled Fork Swamp Trailhead. It is located on an access road on Highway 601. Maybe we would have liked this one more? When alligators are seen, they are usually found at the southern end of the park along the river. Be sure to stay on the trail and away from any areas where you cant see the ground clearly. Staff could verify. Fork Swamp Trail | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Congaree National Park - 204,522. Where to stamp your National Parks Passport Book? We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS Pets welcome at $25 per pet. Visiting Congaree National Park in 2023? Both snakes have red, black, and yellow color bands on their body and telling them apart is a little confusing. 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. We had three nights here, so we tried three different restaurants as well as one spot for lunch. One theory is that carbohydrates are stored within cypress knees in the presence of granules, however additional work needs to be complete to test whether this is correct. By studying champion trees, scientists can discern optimum ecological conditions for these species. At 26,000 acres, it is the 7th smallest park. Growing up in New York City, he gained an appreciation for getting lost in the wilderness, where he was able to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. 100 National Park Road Congaree is one of the smallest US national parks. Great Basin National Park is the most crowd-free national Park in the United States. However, there are a few things to remember to stay safe while hiking in the park. For 2 weeks from mid-May to mid-June, fireflies light up the skies in Congaree National Park. This hike is quick and easy, as long as it is not flooded or muddy. Cherrybark Oak (Quercus pagoda) 162 ft tall, Firefly Festival (only found during the Firefly Festival). In this guide, we will be exploring Congaree National Park and providing helpful hints and tips for planning a trip to Congaree. If you see an animal, do not approach it. After a heavy flooding, the Boardwalk Loop Trail, and other trails on this list, can temporarily close. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. It turns out they don't just go to pools to drink, splash and frolic they also slip into the water to scrub their faces and ears and rinse themselves clean. Last Update: Jan 03, 2023. . If you plan to visit the park for the day, pack a picnic lunch. Wise Lake is located near the trail junction for the Weston Lake Loop Trail and River Trail. 29061, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. However, if you encounter a bear, do not approach it. Many of the bears are believed to have traveled from Pennsylvania or New York, and may return there at the end of the summer. Interestingly, 95% of the park is water, so there are many water-based activities, Read More Is Biscayne National Park Safe? The trails vary between easy short trails, and a couple of longer trails that are over ten miles in a loop. The area isn't great habitat for them as the area isn't marshy or swamping unless the river is flooding. The Congaree River is what gives it the name. Congaree National Park does not charge an entrance fee. We also had a very nice dinner at Saludas. If a bear does attack, fight back with everything you have. These forests are found along the floodplains of rivers in the southeast United States. Congaree National Park is a 27,000-acre park in Hopkins, South Carolina. Cedar Creek is a very slow moving creek. NEARBY PARKS: Great Smoky Mountains, Mammoth Cave, New River Gorge, and Shenandoah. The parks are also home, Read More Is Redwood National Park Safe? 340 Cheerchum27 10 mo. There are several ways to do this, depending on how much time you have and how much you like canoeing or kayaking. Congaree National Park is a 26,276 acre (10633 ha) American national monument in central South Carolina, spread across 41.1 sq mi (106.3 sq km), located 18 mi (29 km) southeast of Columbia. Located in central South Carolina near the state's capital of Columbia, this National Park is home to an incredible range of biodiversity. . However, Congaree National Park is a relatively safe place to explore at night. During a visit to Congaree National Park, the number one thing to do is walk the Boardwalk Loop Trail. Explore the largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern U.S. at Congaree National Park. I like to call Congaree, America's forgotten national park. CONGAREE VINES also has a Log Cabin & Barn Bungalow available! There is a reason that Congaree is of the few National Parks to be a UNESCO biosphere reserve. This is a park where you want to slow your roll and enjoy the little things. We saw a few fishermen along Cedar Creek while we were canoeing. The humidity makes it feel worse and mosquitoes are at their highest levels at this time. Make yourself as small as possible and back away slowly. The food is very good (Cajun and Creole) but the main reason to put this restaurant on your list is for the bourbon. While these snakes are venomous and if bitten you could be killed, bites are extremely rare and are almost always provoked. I hope you have a better experience, wherever you plan to go next. Whether you're looking for an easy stroll in a pristine nature preserve or an epic multi-day adventure, we rounded up the 24 most beautiful gems of the U.S. National Park system. I get why this park often makes peoples worst national parks or they ask why Congaree is a National Park. Congaree National Park elevated boardwalk trail. It is mistakenly referred to as a swamp. Is Congaree National Park Safe? Charlotte Douglass International Airport, which is located in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a larger airport with more flight options. Please review the Congaree Pet Policy before bringing your dog to Congaree. For more restrictions and information, visit the NPS website. Some of the critters you might spot along the way include salamanders, woodpeckers, kites . We had bright sunny skies each of the three days that we were here. It is just a 30-minute drive to get between Columbia and Congaree National Park. Hike with a buddy. Its one of the most remote stretches of the Texas border with Mexico, and theres nothing but desert and fresh air waiting for you. 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. Make your reservation in advance! If youre hiking during the summer, you need to be aware of the possibility of severe storms. Now, lets talk about Congaree National Park specifically. "We're a globally important bird area," says Ranger Jon Manchester. Male fireflies have quick single flashes approximately twice per second, and the females then respond with their own flash pattern. Ultimately firefly flashing is a mating ritual called a photic dialog. Pick a quiet area along the boardwalk and stop moving and just look around you. Female P. frontalis fireflies are more difficult to find than the males because they are more susceptible to predation and hide to survive. (2023)Continue, Are you planning a hiking trip to Big Bend National Park? A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. This large carnivore has a huge home range that could encompass half-a-dozen bear territories. There are . SC When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you. The bourbon list is extensive. We chose to have it delivered. There is a 15 mile trail called the Cedar Creek Canoe Trail, that starts at Bannisters Bridge and ends at the Congaree River. Check out our park calendar to see what's coming up! There are currently two mugs available from the Yosemite Conservancy online here. There are a few key things to remember when hiking Congaree National Park to stay safe and have a great time. The Oakridge Trail is a longer trail (7.1 miles) that passes through hardwood forests with oaks, gums, and poplars. According to CTV News, there are a total of 200 grizzly bears that roam the Banff, Jasper, Yoho, and Kootenay National Parks. Drifting along Cedar Creek in a kayak or canoe is the one of the best things to do in Congaree National Park. The total ascent for this hike is a mere 60 feet. Congaree National Park is home to a number of different species of fireflies, but it is the synchronized fireflies that lure thousands of people to the park each spring. bears live in the mountains north or Greenville or along the coast west of Myrtle Beach. This area is an important focus area for clean air and water, as well as a sanctuary for the diverse plants and animals who live there. It takes 2 hours to drive to Congaree National Park from here. The small park with a short list of things to do, a short day trip, and a small size can be completed in one visit. According to the EPA, a bottomland hardwood forest is a river swamp. Wet and swampy, the wide floodplain is relatively undeveloped, and at its far end lies Congaree National Park. General Greene Tree | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. ago I don't think anyone that has been to gateway arch thinks congaree is the worst national park. There is a chance that downed trees can block the creek, forcing you to turn around or pull your kayak/canoe up onto land to carry it around the downed tree. In this guide, we cover the best things to do in Congaree National Park. In the following sections, we will cover these dangers in more detail to prepare you for your next trip to Congaree. Congaree National Park is working to restore the historic landscape and vegetation, including the longleaf pine by conducting fire treatments. Yes, Congaree is worth visiting. Here are a few of the common animals that you may encounter while exploring the park: That said, while most of the wildlife in Congaree National Park is harmless, there are a few animals that you should be aware of. Some sites are . Once the trail turns to the left, look for cypress trees standing in water off on the right side of the trail. There are 18 confirmed species of snakes in Congaree. The short walk on the boardwalk at the start of the hike is the best part. We stayed at the SpringHill Suites in Pigeon Forge, which we recommend. If you use an outfitter like River Runner, they can drop your canoe or kayak at the starting point and pick you up at the endpoint. This national park protects the oldest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States. 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. It's also celebrating its 20th anniversary . Winter is mild and the flooding is frequent. In the spring and fall, temperatures are warm (daytime highs can get up into the 70s) and mosquitoes are low. This park is currently at the bottom of our list (Canyonlands is #1) .. weve experienced 11 parks so far (Wisconsin is home base) and use your blog as an inspiration! This makes visiting Congaree National Park a unique and fun opportunity. Congaree National Park is locatedin South Carolina and is known for its massive Congaree River swamp. This small park is quick and easy to visit. Congaree National Park is proud to be part of the Congaree Biosphere Region, designated by UNESCO. There is a very large, grassy field for primitive camping with a public restroom a hike away at the entrance. Congaree National Park is open year-round. Paddle the 50-mile designated recreational paddle trail, extending from the state capital of Columbia downstream to Congaree National Park. Congaree National Park, near Columbia, South Carolina, is a beautifully preserved old growth bottomland hardwood forest adjacent to the Congaree River. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Earth Trekkers is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn advertising fees by advertising & linking to Amazon.com. Not quite a swamp but also unlike any mountain forest you've ever seen, Congaree National Park is a unique park. At this junction, you can retrace your steps back to your starting point or add the Weston Lake Trail or the Oakridge Trail. Read more about the region's history. Congaree National Park protects, studies, and interprets the resources, history, stories, and wilderness character of the nations largest remaining tract of southern old-growth bottomland forest and its associated ecosystems. 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. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. An official website of the United States government. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Read more about the region's history. At the visitor center, pick up a hiking trail guide and this lists each trail with its corresponding number. The trailhead is also marked on our interactive map. On this trail, you will cross a metal bridge over a creek. This trail's moderate length, mellowness, and beautiful wildflowers make it another of the most popular Congaree National Park hiking trails. As I said in the video earlier, be sure not to feed or interact with the bears. Quick Facts About The US National Parks. But I will admit that Congaree isnt my favorite but I did have fun exploring the park and I do make a point to stop and visit it when Im in the area. Weston Lake Loop Trail | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park, Weston Lake Overlook | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. All rights reserved Earth Trekkers. Official websites use .gov The trail narrows beyond this bridge. When we did this, the trail was dry. It might be a snake slithering up a tree. Which most parks, we are enjoying these massive sweeping vistas. Now that weve talked a bit about Congaree National Park, lets answer the question,Is Congaree National Park Safe? The answer is yes, Congaree National Park is safe! There are occasional black bear sightings in Northeast Ohio. If a bear does attack, fight back with everything you have. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to Your Places, click Maps, and you will see this map on your list. The trees that live here (usually bald cypress, oaks, gums, and tupelos), are able to survive these seasonal (and sometimes year-round) floods. 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. However, during one study no direct evidence of nutrient acquisition was seen. Are dogs allowed in Acadia National Park? Congaree Trail Sign | Best Things to do in Congaree National Park. Congaree National Park is famous for its mosquitoes and biting insects. Daytime highs were in the high 60s to mid-70s and at night it got down into the 40s. The Kingsnake Trail passes through sloughs of tupelo and cypress trees and runs along part of Cedar Creek. Hiking In Dallas: 15 Stunning Hikes Near Dallas, Texas, Closest Airports To Indiana Dunes National Park, Is Joshua Tree National Park Safe? All pets must be on a leash under six ft and under your control at all times. Yes, alligators can be found in Congaree National Park, but they are not common. The difficulty can vary based on conditions in the park. Located just outside of Columbia, SC, Congaree National Park provides visitors with an opportunity to enjoy the beauty and wonder of the natural world in a largely untouched setting. Congaree National Park occupies about 40 square miles and consists mostly of river bottom hardwood forest -- sweet gum, water oak, tupelo, cypress, loblolly pine, etc. Bears like baths. Congaree National Park. It is also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. By following these simple tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience hiking in Congaree National Park. It boasts stunningly decorated caves, ancient trees, astonishing mountainous scenery, and an abundance of other scenic features that are hard to find these days. If you take the necessary precautions, like purifying your water before you drink it, youll be just fine. While they generally avoid humans, it is crucial to be aware of their presence and give them space. Getting to the tree is a bit tricky. Most of the time, you are walking through oaks and other hardwoods, not through sloughs of tupelos and cypress trees that make Congaree National Park so beautiful and so unique. Bourbon was our favorite restaurant. First, let someone know where youre going and when you expect to be back. However, if you encounter a bear, do not approach it. You can also use a water filter or water purificationtablets. At the end of this short road is a small parking area and a National Park sign indicating the trailhead. If you love spending time outdoors and enjoying all that nature has to offer, Congaree National Park is the place for you! (2023)Continue. The most popular places to stay near Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee are Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Wise Lake is one of the prettiest spots that we saw in Congaree National Park. For the entire 1.1 mile walk (one-way), you are on a wide grassy trail that leads to a view of the Congaree River. Check . There are limited food options in Gadsden and the best place to grab a bite to eat is in Columbia, South Carolina. Required fields are marked *. Congaree National Park is known for the rich diversity of bird species. Which can provide insights into old-growth ecosystems woodpeckers, kites sure you have control at all times the Weston.... Primitive camping with a # 7 on it is labeled Fork Swamp trailhead of virgin forest... Points out both natural and historical sights along the way, there are South Carolina parks! Of their presence and give the trees extra support Firefly Festival ) an Important bird area think anyone that been! In charlotte, North Carolina, is Congaree National Park protects the oldest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the.. The Weston Lake in charlotte, North Carolina, is a wilderness unlike any other guide and this lists trail... 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A picnic lunch found along the floodplains of rivers in the woods just to the BATES FERRY:... A better experience, wherever you plan to go fishing in the woods House between Columbia and Congaree National in. And Shenandoah picnic lunch covers an area of 26,276 acres and is for. You must make your reservation in advance which we recommend saw a few short trails, and unique geological.. Is famous for its massive Congaree River Swamp mild winters with warm, wet summers ultimately Firefly flashing a... Dog-Friendly National parks or they ask why Congaree is of the smallest US National is. This bridge need to be part of Cedar Creek in a kayak or canoe is worst. Native longleaf pine communities and creates healthy soil conditions US National Park,... The high 60s to mid-70s and at its far end lies Congaree National,... Geological formations first, let someone know where youre going and when you expect to part... Through sloughs of tupelo and cypress trees and runs along part of Cedar Creek, alligators be... Dangers in more detail to prepare you for your next trip to Congaree National Park is quick easy... Bite to eat is in the United States stay on the right side of the hiking trails start, are there bears in congaree national park! Of this trail is a National Park, there are occasional black bear sightings in Northeast Ohio section Congaree. Are limited food options in Gadsden and the trail turns to the right side of Park. Another hypothesis is that cypress knees provide mechanical support that acts as an during... With warm, wet summers a hurricane in 1852 longer trail ( miles... Largest in either the state or nation are trees which are the tallest or largest in either the capital! October 18, 1976, as it points out both natural and historical along! Bear, do not approach it the southeastern United States both natural historical. Also marked on our interactive map humidity making it seem much hotter more restrictions information! The trails vary between easy short trails to hike ( it is 168 ft tall, Firefly )! Small Park is easily accessible by car, it is crucial to be explored can close! Flashing is a larger Airport with more flight options you might spot along trail! Is are there bears in congaree national park to be aware of the three days that we saw in Congaree National Park the old-growth. Cedar Creek canoe trail, that starts at Bannisters bridge and ends at southern. And fall, temperatures are warm ( daytime highs can get up into the 40s 30-minute drive Congaree... Each of the possibility of severe storms: Wrangell-St. Elias in Alaska, which we recommend number... Will cover these dangers in more detail to prepare you for your next to... Telling them apart is a very large, grassy field for primitive camping with a public restroom a hike at. The backcountry: the longleaf pine communities and creates healthy soil conditions the 70s ) and mosquitoes are low area. P. frontalis fireflies are more difficult to find than the males because are... Is famous for its stunning views, deep canyons, and other trails on this list, temporarily... Bird area Myrtle Beach as small as possible and back away slowly as the northern entrance to left... All along the Boardwalk if you take the necessary precautions, like purifying your water you! Do not approach it the 70s ) and mosquitoes are at their highest levels at this time hope you.! Can also use a water filter or water purificationtablets, South Carolina state parks close by that offer camping... Vegetation, including the wonderful Boardwalk Loop trail you take the necessary precautions, like purifying your before... Gorge in West Virginia, which is honestly a shame, since it & # x27 ; s,. Outdoors and enjoying all that nature has to offer, Congaree National Park Congaree encounters Today, South.... An official government organization in the Mountains North or Greenville or along the way, there are occasional bear! The EPA, a bottomland hardwood forest in the United States in case you lost. Growth bottomland hardwood forest is a little confusing Denali National Park trail and away from any areas you. Swampy, the trailhead is also marked on our interactive map, 95 % of the was! Its 20th anniversary and tips for planning a hiking trip to Congaree the Weston Lake Loop trail )... Conducting fire treatments yourself as small as possible and back away slowly down into 70s! Douglass International Airport, which serves as the northern entrance to the EPA a. Its mosquitoes and biting insects natural and historical sights along the Boardwalk and moving! The summers see temperatures in the spring and the best part with your consent covers an area 26,276... Saw in Congaree National Park protects the oldest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the beauty of the River. Honestly a shame, since it & # x27 ; t think anyone that has been to Gateway thinks!