Congaree National Park
Official park boundary · National Park Service
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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.
Congaree National Park is a 26,692.6-acre national park of the United States in central South Carolina, 18 miles southeast of the state capital, Columbia. The park preserves the largest tract of old growth bottomland hardwood forest left in the United States. The lush trees growing in its floodplain forest are some of the tallest in the eastern United States, forming one of the highest temperate deciduous forest canopies remaining in the world. The Congaree River flows through the park. About 15,000 acres are designated as a wilderness area.
From Interstate 77, Exit 5 At Exit 5 turn onto SC Hwy 48 East/Bluff Road. Following the brown and white "Congaree National Park" directional signs, travel approximately 8 miles on and then take a slight right onto Old Bluff Road. Follow Old Bluff Road for 4.5 miles to the park entrance sign, which will be on the right. Proceed one mile to the Harry Hampton Visitor Center. Parking lots will be on the right.
Check the forecast before getting on the road. Conditions can change rapidly within the park. Flooding can happen with little or no warning, so make sure to check water levels for Cedar Creek and the Congaree River.
Source: National Park Service
Park facts, fees, and activities confirmed against the National Park Service registry.
National Park Service registryChecked 2026-08-04
Where is Congaree National Park?
Congaree National Park is in South Carolina.
When was Congaree National Park established?
Congaree National Park was established in 2003.
How big is Congaree National Park?
Congaree National Park covers 42 square miles (26,693 acres).
Can you camp in Congaree National Park?
Yes. The National Park Service runs 2 campgrounds in Congaree National Park, with 20 campsites between them.
Does Congaree National Park have a visitor center?
Yes. Congaree National Park has 1 visitor center: Harry Hampton Visitor Center.
Day trips start here
- Congaree National Park · 0 mi
- Columbia · 21 mi
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