Congaree National Park

Usual hours

• Mon–Sun 0:00–0:00

From 56 published days, 2026-10-20 to 2026-12-14; community-mapped.

About

This park's official page lists: Pet-friendly (leashed).

Entrance / day-use fee applies.

This park's official page lists: Visitor center.

At the park

• Visitor center exhibit
• Camping activity
• Caves & caverns scenic feature
• Wildlife & bird watching scenic feature
• Hiking trails trail
• Fishing water
• Paddling (kayak/canoe) water

Shows and experiences

• Historic sites & museum
• Junior Ranger program

Events

• The Other Congaree Forest
• The Mythical Creatures of Congaree
• Forest Wellness - Yoga in the Park
• 50th Anniversary Owl Prowl 05:45 PM–07:15 PM · This program will begin and end at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center and will take place primarily on the Boardwalk Trail.
• Celebrating Congaree National Park's 50th Anniversary 09:00 AM–05:00 PM · All programs will either take place or start at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center.
• Congaree Action Now! The Effort to Preserve the Green Heart of South Carolina 09:30 AM–10:00 AM
• Tall and Stately as the Trees: Congaree and the Lasting Legacy of Harry Hampton 02:00 PM–02:30 PM
• The Green Heart of South Carolina: Congaree National Park at 50 03:30 PM–04:00 PM
• 50th Anniversary Big Tree Hike with John Cely 09:00 AM–12:00 PM
• Fall Forest Wellness Journaling 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
• Forest Wellness Yoga in the Park 10:00 AM–12:00 PM

Before you go

Limits

Yes, dogs are allowed on park trails

Limits

All dogs must be kept on a leash (no more than 6 feet in length) and always be under your control

Getting there

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.

Weather & when to go

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.