Home of Champions

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.

The requested video is no longer available.
Water covers the floor of the bottomland forest.
Current Conditions and Alerts

How high is the water, ranger? Check conditions here!

A ranger provides information to visitors outdoors
Upcoming Programs and Events

Check out our park calendar to see what's coming up!

A lone visitor walks through the forest along the Boardwalk.
Trail Information

Plan your hike into the Congaree wilderness.

A green canoe glides on the Congaree River, with trees and a wide sandbar in the background.
Canoe and Kayak Adventures

Journey into the heart of the park on Cedar Creek.

An orange tent sits under a green canopy in one of the park's campgrounds.
Camping Information

If you really want to experience Congaree National Park, stay in one of the park's primitive campgrounds or in the park's wild backcountry.

Two people fishing, one standing, one sitting, along water's edge
Fishing at Congaree

The park is a great place to fish; however, please read and understand the rules and regulations carefully.

Image of the Congaree River
Congaree River Blue Trail

Paddle the 50-mile designated recreational paddle trail, extending from the state capital of Columbia downstream to Congaree National Park.

Park staff talks to children during outdoor program
Education

Plan a field trip to Congaree National Park.

Image of accessible picnic shelter at Congaree National Park
Accessibility

Congaree is dedicated to providing meaningful, engaging opportunities to all individuals. Learn more about available resources.

Image of benches along a boardwalk trail
Safety

Make sure your visit is safe and enjoyable.

Illustration of maroon community, people sitting around a fire in wilderness
History and Culture

Humans have inhabited the area that is now Congaree National Park for at least 10,000 years. Read more about the region's history.

Two people in a canoe on a narrow waterway surrounded by dense forest
Congaree Wilderness

Learn more about the Wilderness Act and types of wilderness at Congaree.

Image of firefighters walking through smoky forest
Wildland Fire

Learn more about prescribed burns, and how fire can be an essential tool in both preventing wildfires and helping certain ecosystems thrive.

Three people standing in water taking measurements
Research Learning Center

Learn more about the Old-Growth Bottomland Forest Research and Education Center (OGBFREC).

Illustration of barred owl with text: Friends of Congaree Swamp
Friends of Congaree Swamp

Learn how FOCS supports the park.

Logo for Congaree Biosphere Region: an illustration of a bird flying with the sun in the background
Congaree Biosphere Region

Congaree National Park is proud to be part of the Congaree Biosphere Region, designated by UNESCO. Learn more about the CBR.

Junior ranger logo: a flat hat with the words explore, learn protect surrounding
Be a Junior Ranger

Learn how to become a Congaree Junior Ranger!

Volunteer-in-Parks logo
Volunteer With Us

Learn how to become a Congaree Volunteer!

Last updated: October 6, 2024

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

100 National Park Road
Hopkins, SC 29061

Phone:

803 776-4396

Contact Us