Congaree National Park, Hopkins: Address, Phone Number, Congaree National Park Reviews: 4.5/5
Congaree National Park
Congaree National Park
4.5
About
One of the few remaining old growth floodplains in the country; home to otters, bobcats and wild boar.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
582 reviews
Excellent
348
Very good
167
Average
52
Poor
10
Terrible
5
masonkyle
23 contributions
My wife and I are National Park enthusiasts, so we had to stop here on our drive from Orlando to North Carolina. I set my expectations low because this park is one of the least visited in the nation but now that I've been there I'm not really sure why. This park has lots to offer in the way of day hikes and paddling opportunities. My wife and I spent one afternoon and one morning here, doing a couple of hikes and picnicking. We were incredibly impressed with the boardwalk guided tour, which answered almost every question I was able to come up with.
Negative reviews here belong to people who were looking to have their socks blown off at fist glance, or weren't willing to put up with the weather. Unlike the Grand Canyon or the Redwoods you have to really look around to see the natural wonders this park contains, but if you're a nature enthusiast its well worth your time. Plant and animal life are everywhere and we greatly enjoyed our time here. If we ever go back we'll be sure to bring our kayaks to see the park from the many navigable creeks and streams that run through the park.
Negative reviews here belong to people who were looking to have their socks blown off at fist glance, or weren't willing to put up with the weather. Unlike the Grand Canyon or the Redwoods you have to really look around to see the natural wonders this park contains, but if you're a nature enthusiast its well worth your time. Plant and animal life are everywhere and we greatly enjoyed our time here. If we ever go back we'll be sure to bring our kayaks to see the park from the many navigable creeks and streams that run through the park.
Written July 25, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
celeste r
Lawrenceville, GA10 contributions
Family
We had a nice picnic and had a great walk on the boardwalk. Got a new stamp for our park passport book. The kids loved doing the junior ranger book and scavenger hunt we spent three hours here. So glad we weren’t deterred by the negative reviews.
Written July 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Kevin K
Columbia, SC3 contributions
While very hot and humid on July 4th for a hike, we started on the boardwalk trail and ventured off on the river trail. Didn't see another person at all which is a plus in my eyes for a nature hike. We did see several boars, a barred owl, pileated woodpeckers, and heard so many more birds. Had to turn back for a prior engagement prior to making it the river. Only downside of having the trail to ourselves was the dozens of spider webs crossing the trail. Got a light arms work out by swinging a stick back and forth!
Written July 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Jeremy V
Sioux Falls, SD64 contributions
Family
One of the most disappointing experiences I have had at a national park. Obviously, extremely hot and humid weather make everything worse. The three main positives were a quick glimpse of a gator swimming across Weston Lake, a small water snake that we could see, and (the most unique part) the trees’ knees that could be seen along the boardwalk throughout the park. I was thankful that the entire experience was free, because otherwise my teenage children would never let me live this one down. Mostly a waste of a couple hours.
Written June 24, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
james w
Whitesburg, TN122 contributions
Family
The mosquito capital of South Carolina! Don't let that deter you. This is a great place!! Wildlife, Forrest, history.....it's great!! Use bug spray for the skeeters and flies when they are bad! The forest is beautiful, like being in a jungle!
Written June 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
greglinmon
Las Cruces, NM673 contributions
Family
Visited here on a beautiful summer day. We love collecting national park stamps. We were in the area on a vacation so decided to run over here. Wow. Unbelievable site. Remote, not well known but just outstanding hikes and trails, nice visitors center. It was worth every bit of the drive. Saw lizards, variety of insects. Board walk is an easy walk, you can decide distance if 2.5 miles is too long.
Written June 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
BrandonJ0202
Fayetteville, NC56 contributions
Family
We had a great time on our visit. Family of five with three kids under the age of 8. Free entry - always a great start. The parking area was really full and it was hard to park, but it was a busy weekend, so it was expected. There is a nice little Gift Shop and Visitors Center at the parking area. If you have little ones, be sure to ask about the Junior Ranger program. They will get little activity books for the hike, which were great for entertainment while walking, and be rewarded at the end by being deputized as Junior Park Rangers (little keepsake badge and all). The boardwalk is a great “easy” hike that can accommodate all ages and skill levels. Could also do strollers (we didn’t use one, but you easily could). The whole hike is under canopy, so you will be shaded. Plenty of local wildlife to see - we saw tons and the kids loved it! We brought and bought (kids ones) some binoculars. I would definitely recommend bringing some if you have them. One thing we didn’t really encounter was a good area for picnicking. We ended up eating the lunch in the car. Only saw one or two tables and they were being swarmed by deer flies. Overall, great hiking experience for our group. There are plenty of other trails to get more distance - I don’t think there is much in terms of elevation though. As far as time, we spent a little bit more than two hours on the boardwalk - plus another 30 minutes in/around the Visitors Center.
Written May 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Brown_Samantha
Kennewick, WA1,379 contributions
What a gem so close to Columbia!! Just a short 40 minutes drive to the visitor’s center. Went early before the center was opened, but someone was there with information. Quite a few people were there. The park itself is open 24 hours. We suggest come early when crowds are light.
Since the weather is cool in the morning, we wore long pants and long sleeves to help with avoiding mosquitoes. They are definitely around. Swampy and marsh lands after all.
The boardwalk trail is less than 3 miles long. It is so pleasant. We loved all the birds. Very well laid out too. We especially enjoyed the Lake Weston viewing platform. We saw beautiful reflections in the lake. Lots of turtles swimming around. Main attractions were clearly marked and explanation in the guide.
Budget a couple of hours. If you’re prone to mosquito bites, bring Off. The loblolly pines are so unique. We never seen anything like them!
Since the weather is cool in the morning, we wore long pants and long sleeves to help with avoiding mosquitoes. They are definitely around. Swampy and marsh lands after all.
The boardwalk trail is less than 3 miles long. It is so pleasant. We loved all the birds. Very well laid out too. We especially enjoyed the Lake Weston viewing platform. We saw beautiful reflections in the lake. Lots of turtles swimming around. Main attractions were clearly marked and explanation in the guide.
Budget a couple of hours. If you’re prone to mosquito bites, bring Off. The loblolly pines are so unique. We never seen anything like them!
Written May 1, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Traci
Fort Mill, SC279 contributions
Friends
Worth a stop
If you’re in the area it’s worth a trip. Swamp lands are unique and different than other national parks.
Entry to the park is currently free. You can hike as much or as little as you like. The boardwalk is nearly 2.5 miles long. You can walk it in flip flops if you wanted to. Or you can hike off the board walk for miles.
If you go in the summer the mosquitoes are going to be HORRIBLE. Keep that in mind.
We went in April and we saw 2 mosquitoes
If you’re in the area it’s worth a trip. Swamp lands are unique and different than other national parks.
Entry to the park is currently free. You can hike as much or as little as you like. The boardwalk is nearly 2.5 miles long. You can walk it in flip flops if you wanted to. Or you can hike off the board walk for miles.
If you go in the summer the mosquitoes are going to be HORRIBLE. Keep that in mind.
We went in April and we saw 2 mosquitoes
Written April 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
MEPHX
Phoenix, AZ159 contributions
Visited on a Sunday morning. The gift shop was closed but there was a very helpful volunteer giving out information and advice by the outside map. Part of the Boardwalk Trail was closed due to fallen trees, so we were able to walk 3/4 of the way around and then had to turn around. The volunteer explained all that and showed some options for trails to use instead of the Boardwalk but we stayed on the Boardwalk as it was so interesting. Be sure to pick up the free Self-Guided Boardwalk trail paper guide - lots of interesting information as you go along. Take the quick side trip to the pier at Weston Lake as well - we saw a snake and turtles there. The Mosquito Meter said "average" and we weren't bothered by them, even without bug spray. This National Park is free, and the boardwalk is stroller and wheelchair accessible. Definitely worth a visit and a walk on the Boardwalk.
Written April 18, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
mlwatton
Pittsburgh, PA48 contributions
Hello! Was wondering what congaree is like in very early April. Are there any buds/leaves on trees? Is it a nice time to visit for scenery? Or will it take longer into the spring to get leaves? If anyone has visited around this time I’d love to hear your experience.
Ghostrainchaser
Highlands Ranch, CO229 contributions
I was there in the fall so I am not qualified to answer that question. Strongly suggest that you phone the visitor center directly and speak with a park ranger. They will gladly answer a multitude of questions for you.
Suzanne76
Indianapolis, IN41 contributions
We are going to be in the area in July and I was interested in what the conditions might be like. I would love to take my boys hiking. Would it be miserable? We have learned to treat our clothing with Premetherin due to mosquitos in Michigan and Minnesota, it’s the heat and humidity that concerns me.
SCoxygenman
Columbia, SC281 contributions
It will be very hot 🥵 July is probably one of our hottest months here. Bring lots of water. The good thing is that the trails are along a route with lots of trees that will protect you from direct sunlight. With the high humidity we have wear loose clothes that can breathe or you’ll sweat right through them. Also take into mind when they say temperature mid 90’s, That means the heat index with humidity put the feel like temperatures in the low 100’s. If you can beat the heat, come out have fun and enjoy the Congaree Trail and remember they have a really nice visitor center with air conditioning to cool off.
Kathleen G
Riverton, NJ28 contributions
Reading all the warnings about needing bug spray. Is it usually bad into September? We’re visiting mid-September. If we use Deet and mosquito netting, long sleeves etc will we still get major bites? Sounds like there’s no preventing bites and I’m usually highly susceptible!
JamesW
Anchorage, AK7 contributions
Hello! Congaree National Park will be an enjoyable visit for you. Make sure you spend time in the visitor Center.
In regards to bugs, an insect repellent with 20 - 30% Deet should work fine and wearing long-sleeved shirts will be helpful. The park will be more humid at that time; however, still enjoyable. Time you visit for the morning hours and check to see if they have a Ranger Program planned for the day.
gardengal8306
Irmo, SC7 contributions
Kayaking here soon from Cedar Creek Landing. Is it easy to get lost while on the water? As in are there points where you have to choose between going left or right as in a fork on the creek? Kayaking alone and worried about getting lost!
Carol G
Columbia, SC15 contributions
Cedar Creek is a marked paddling trail but it is easy to get lost when water levels are above about 7 feet. Go to the park's website and check out the information on the canoe trail page. You can access water level charts as well as a guide that tells you what you can expect at different water levels.
Any trails for Equine?
Carol G
Columbia, SC15 contributions
Horses are not allowed on the trails at Congaree National Park.
Jennifer H
1 contribution
Can someone recommend a kayak outfitter for Congaree that will haul the kayaks and pick us up at the end?
rfa803
Columbia, SC59 contributions
River Runner Outdoor Center is an approved guide service that operates tours within the park boundaries. I have used their guide services and rentals and recommend them highly. You can find them on the web or on Facebook or reach them at (803) 771-0353.
LoneFlower1
Austin, TX472 contributions
For those that have done the ranger canoe trip - how did you get tickets?! I’ve been trying since it opened for the spring season on March 1, but everything says sold out. Even they days that aren’t crossed though are saying sold out. Do they sell out in minutes? Did you buy them as soon as the season opened? Gonna try for fall now!
cogaha
Apex, NC116 contributions
The tickets literally sell out within a few minutes. You need to be logged on to your recreation.gov account, have your credit card right in front of you, and rush like a crazy person to complete your transaction—it’s your only hope! If you have more than one person in your party who can try for tickets, that improves your chances. We did the trip today, and it was worth all the effort! Good luck!
When is the best time of the year to visit the park.
Are the parkranger led canoetrips available yearround?
Thanks,
Marcia from Jax
ViviColumbiaMaryland
Cypress Gardens, FL105 contributions
We visited in late January. The weather was wonderful. The park is pretty shaded and it is not that big. We probably spent a little over an hour because the guide was very interested in telling us about the plants and the geology.
GypsyZora
Hilton Head, SC11 contributions
What is the least crowded night of the week to see the fireflies in May/June?
Trrhperry
Woodlawn, TN37 contributions
I would advise you to contact the park headquarters. There is a place on the website to contact the staff. They responded to my questions promptly and efficiently.
RadioJeff
Saint Paul, MN93 contributions
Is it possible to rent canoes or kayaks in the park? If not, are there outfitters near by? How much time should we give ourselves for a trip on the water?
HonestReviewGuy913
Greenville, SC219 contributions
There are no rentals available in the park, but there are outfitters in Columbia where you can rent the type of watercraft you prefer. They can also offer advice on timing, best places to put in, etc...
The full Cedar Creek Canoe Trail is 15 miles, so you would have to determine how much you wanted to kayak to get an idea for timing your adventure.
If you go on a free ranger-led canoe tour, the canoe is provided in that scenario, but is also a much shorter experience.
Hope this helps and you enjoy the park!
Frequently Asked Questions about Congaree National Park
- Hotels near Congaree National Park:
- (8.99 mi) PRIVATE Half a House between Columbia and Sumter, SC.
- (3.28 mi) Cottage Tree House B&B
- (3.50 mi) Gypsy camper
- (6.32 mi) A Charming Country Cottage Nestled in the Woods
- (8.95 mi) B & B Kampground
- Restaurants near Congaree National Park:
- (4.28 mi) J D's Place
- (5.26 mi) Big T Bar-B-Q
- (9.00 mi) Mr Bunky's Restaurant & Market
- (8.93 mi) Katie's Sandwich Shop
- (9.64 mi) Whippoorwill Cafe & Bakery
- Attractions near Congaree National Park:
- (1.24 mi) Harry Hampton Visitor Center
- (1.63 mi) Boardwalk Trail
- (2.12 mi) Cedar Creek