Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park preserves the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the United States. This watery wilderness contains some of the tallest trees in eastern North America, with ancient bald cypresses and towering loblolly pines creating a primeval cathedral. The forest floor floods periodically, creating a dynamic ecosystem that pulses with the rhythms of the Congaree River. The park serves as an International Biosphere Reserve, protecting exceptional biodiversity within its 26,000 acres. Synchronous fireflies create magical light displays during their brief mating season, one of only a few places worldwide where this phenomenon occurs. River otters play in blackwater creeks while barred owls call through Spanish moss-draped branches. Raised boardwalks allow intimate forest exploration without disturbing sensitive wetlands. Paddlers can navigate through tupelo and cypress forests via Cedar Creek, experiencing the swamp from water level. This forgotten wilderness, saved from logging by grassroots activism, now stands as testament to the power of conservation and the enduring value of wild places.

Water Features

Congaree River, Cedar Creek, oxbow lakes

Ecosystem

This destination features a temperate forest ecosystem.