Congaree National Park
Hopkins, SC
The largest intact old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern US, with giant loblolly pines and bald cypress seen from a 2.6-mile boardwalk loop. Free; bring insect repellent from spring to autumn.
Congaree National Park in South Carolina, about 18 miles (29 km) southeast of Columbia, protects the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States. It is home to some of the tallest trees in the eastern US, including loblolly pines more than 45 m (150 ft) high. The park is a designated wilderness, a UNESCO biosphere reserve and a National Natural Landmark. The Congaree River regularly floods the floodplain.
The main attraction is the Boardwalk Trail, a wheelchair-accessible loop of 2.6 miles (4.2 km) through cypress and tupelo forest with views of Weston Lake. Allow about an hour. The boardwalk was renovated and largely raised in 2026. During floods, most often from December to March, other trails may be closed, so check conditions before you go. Mosquitoes are a nuisance in summer, so repellent is advisable. Visits to see the synchronous fireflies in late spring are limited, so ask the park for details.
- Nearest town
- Hopkins, SC
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 33.8298, -80.8233
- Editor's pick
- ★
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually April–May and October–November. Still fine, with some compromises, in March, June and September. Hot in July–August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Sources
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
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Campsites nearby
- Longleaf CampgroundCampsite0 mi from Congaree National ParkTents
- Bluff CampgroundCampsite0 mi from Congaree National Park · 6 pitchesTents
- Cruisers Roost RV ParkMotorhome stopover15 mi from Congaree National ParkMotorhomes
- Big Rig Friendly RV ResortMotorhome stopover15 mi from Congaree National ParkMotorhomes
- Barnyard RV ParkMotorhome stopover22 mi from Congaree National ParkMotorhomes
- Edmund RV ParkMotorhome stopover22 mi from Congaree National ParkMotorhomes
All campsites in South Carolina · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Congaree National Park?
Congaree National Park is in Hopkins, SC, at GPS 33.8298, -80.8233. It is about 17 mi from Columbia.
Can you camp near Congaree National Park?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Longleaf Campground, about 0 mi away; within 25 mi there are 11 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Congaree National Park?
Congaree National Park is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Lowcountry oaks, Ashley River plantations and Congaree.
What is there to see near Congaree National Park?
Places worth a stop nearby: Middleton Place (75 mi), Drayton Hall (79 mi), Angel Oak (88 mi) and Rainbow Row (90 mi).
When is the best time to visit Congaree National Park?
The most pleasant months are usually April–May and October–November. Still fine, with some compromises, in March, June and September. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)