In the heart of South Carolina, Congaree National Park protects one of the largest remaining old growth bottomland hardwood forests in the United States. The park feels like a world shaped by water, where the Congaree River floods the forest floor and nourishes towering trees that reach extraordinary heights. Bald cypress, loblolly pine, and ancient oaks rise above a lush understory, creating a cathedral-like canopy that glows with shifting light. Boardwalk trails wind through quiet wetlands, and at dawn, the forest fills with birdsong, swirling mist, and the warm colors of a Southern sunrise.
Congaree was designated a national park in 2003 after decades of efforts to protect its unique forest ecosystem from logging and development. The ancient trees that dominate the landscape are some of the tallest on the East Coast and provide a rare glimpse into what much of this region once looked like. The park also preserves remnants of human history, from early farming and hunting traditions to stories of people who sought refuge in the dense forest. Congaree stands today as an important sanctuary of both natural and cultural heritage.
The park is a paradise for nature lovers. Visitors can explore more than twenty-five miles of trails and waterways, including the popular Boardwalk Loop, which offers a peaceful view of the forest from above the floodplain. Canoeing and kayaking provide the best way to experience Congaree, where slow-moving blackwater creeks reflect the trees like mirrors. Wildlife thrives in this rich environment. River otters slip through the water, owls perch in towering branches, and fireflies illuminate the forest during the famous synchronous display each spring.
Conservation in Congaree National Park focuses on maintaining the delicate balance of water flow, protecting old growth trees, and supporting the rich biodiversity of the floodplain. The National Park Service works with scientists and local communities to study hydrology, manage invasive species, and monitor wildlife populations. Visitors are encouraged to stay on designated trails, respect sensitive habitats, and learn about the importance of preserving bottomland forests. Congaree National Park offers a rare opportunity to experience a wild, ancient forest that thrives through patience, resilience, and the steady rhythm of water.
Our Experience
We didn’t know what to expect when visiting this park & didn’t know that the best way to experience it was by canoeing through it’s marshes! We took a canoe tour & hiked the only trail available in the park. It was mid-winter so it was a bit rainy but we still really enjoyed it. We spotted many birds, a raccoon & our first owl!