Quick Facts | Top Experiences | Best Time to Visit | Guides | How to Support Congaree
Congaree National Park in South Carolina is home to the largest intact old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States, with some of the tallest trees on the eastern coast. Explore towering cypress and tupelo trees via scenic boardwalks, paddle through the tranquil waters of Cedar Creek, and catch the rare synchronous firefly display in May and June.
Congaree National Park Quick Facts
Native Lands: Congaree, Santee, Wateree, ᏣᎳᎫᏪᏘᏱ Tsalaguwetiyi (Cherokee, East). (Native Land Digital)
Founded: 2003 (National Monument since 1976)
Annual Visitors: 250,114 visitors in 2023
Size: 26,692 acres
Location: South Carolina
Entrance Fee: $15 per person, valid for 7 days
Notable Fact: Congaree’s loblolly pines reach over 170 feet—comparable to a 17-story building!
Top Experiences in Congaree
- Go Kayaking or Canoeing on Cedar Creek
- Go hiking on trails like the Boardwalk and Weston Lake Loop
- Experience the Firefly Synchronization in May or June
- Check out the exhibits inside the Harry Hampton Visitor Center
- Spot Wildlife like otters, turtles, and wild hogs
Best Time to Visit Congaree
The best time to visit Congaree National Park is in the spring and autumn when temperatures are mild, making outdoor activities like hiking and canoeing most pleasant.
Fall is particularly beautiful with the fall foliage visible as you hike or canoe through the park. If you’re interested in the Firefly Synchronization, aim for May or early June.
Support Congaree National Park
The first way to support Congaree is by being a respectful visitor and diligently practicing the 7 Leave No Trace Principles when visiting.
Congaree also faces several challenges, among which are the presence of invasive species as well as nearby development, posing risks to its waters and wildlife.
You can show your support by supporting local conservation groups like the South Carolina Wildlife Federation or the larger National Parks Conservation Association.
Congaree National Park Guides
Congaree Videos
Watch us explore Congaree National Park on YouTube!