Congaree National Park

SC
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.
Park photo

WEATHER INFO

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.

Weather @ Congaree
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last updated: 3 hr

DIRECTIONS INFO

Buford, Georgia
Navigate to Park
4.3 hr
Congaree
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.
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Alerts

CAUTION

Flood Conditions (updated 5/12/25)

The Congaree River is forecast to exceed flood stage due to recent heavy rains. The majority of park trails except for portions of the Elevated Boardwalk, Firefly, and Longleaf Trails will be underwater. The Visitor Center and campgrounds remain open

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PARK CLOSURE

Boardwalk Construction Underway at Sections D & E (Updated 5/8/2025)

Sections D & E of the Boardwalk east of the Sims Trail are currently closed for work associated with the ongoing boardwalk replacement project. Weston Lake Trail is currently an out and back trail. Please see our trail information page for more details.

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INFORMATION

Modified Operating Schedule for Synchronous Firefly Viewing Event May 13-21

The park will be operating under a modified operating schedule from May 13-21 for the Synchronous Firefly Viewing Event. Park entry after 4:30 p.m. on event nights will require a valid event pass. Please see our event information page for further details.

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CAUTION

Backcountry Trail Conditions

GPS is necessary on backcountry trails: Oakridge, River, and Kingsnake. These trails may be difficult to follow. River Trail is not recommended at this time due to the volume of downed trees and debris from recent storms.

INFORMATION

Please Email if Unable to Reach by Phone

Park phones are experiencing technical issues at this time. If unable to reach by phone, please feel free to email cong_information@nps.gov with any questions.

INFORMATION

Planning Ahead for Transportation

If being dropped off at the park, please ensure you will have a return ride. Taxis and rideshares do not often come out to Congaree, and the bus may be unavailable. Please plan ahead.

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