Columbiasouthern gem

Experience the natural wonders of Congaree National Park, which ranks among the most diverse forest communities in North America and is the only national park in South Carolina. The area is one of the last surviving old-growth swamps in the east, sometimes still referred to as the “Congaree Swamp.” If you choose to explore on foot, there are over 20 miles of hiking trails and boardwalks just waiting to be explored. A marked canoe trail is your other option: Bring your own canoe and flotation devices, and explore the vast beauty of Cedar Creek, Weston Lake and the Congaree floodplain forest. Free camping permits are available by request, biking and fishing are permitted in certain sections of the park and guided walks and canoe trips are offered free of charge. Pick up a park map at the Harry Hampton Visitor’s Center, open daily from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. and extending to 7 p.m. on weekends during daylight savings.