Congaree National Park South Carolina Travel Magnet

Congaree National Park, located in central South Carolina, is home to the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States. The park preserves a rare and rich ecosystem where towering loblolly pines, bald cypress, and water tupelo trees thrive in floodplain conditions. Congaree is especially known for its "champion trees"—some of the tallest examples of their species found anywhere in the country. The Congaree and Wateree Rivers flow through the park, regularly flooding and nourishing the forest with nutrients that support an incredible diversity of plant and animal life. Visitors to Congaree can explore the park’s beauty by walking along the elevated Boardwalk Loop Trail, which winds through a stunning landscape of towering trees and wetlands. Canoeing and kayaking on Cedar Creek offer a peaceful way to see wildlife, including river otters, alligators, and a variety of bird species like barred owls and pileated woodpeckers. Though the park is just a short drive from Columbia, South Carolina, it feels like a hidden world of natural wonder. Whether you’re interested in hiking, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the serenity of an ancient forest, Congaree offers a uniquely wild experience.