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Congaree National Park

A view of Congaree National Park

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RVers will find much to explore in Congaree National Park's top attraction — the largest remaining bottomland hardwood forest in North America. The rivers and streams that surround the gum, oak, and cypress trees are exceptional for kayaking and canoeing. Fall is the best time for RVing to Congaree National Park because the crowds are small, and the bugs are gone for the year. Except for certain holidays, the visitor center is open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily. The city of Columbia and its suburbs have plenty of RV rentals near Congaree National Park. It's always a good idea to check the current conditions at Congaree National Park before visiting to make sure all the trails and roads are open. Note that RV camping is not permitted at this national park. If you'd like to stay overnight, you need a permit to camp in the backcountry, and you need reservations if you want to stay at one of the two campgrounds that offer tent camping. RV parking in Congaree National Park is available if you have a small or medium-sized RV. You can park it overnight in the oversized vehicle parking lot at the visitor center while tent camping, but you aren't allowed to stay inside your RV at night. Additionally, you have to reserve and pay for the campsite online prior to arrival.

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Weather
  • Spring 68-82 F
  • Summer 82-92 F
  • Fall 74-85 F
  • Winter 33-57 F
Location & Hours
  • Coming soon
Park Info
  • Coming soon

RV Rentals Near Congaree National Park

Nearby RV Rentals

Congaree National Park Hiking Trails

Congaree National Park Hiking Trails

There are only 10 marked hiking trails within Congaree National Park. Remember, the later you get in the year, the more of the park will be underwater. At the water's usual highest level, about 80% of the park, including most of the hiking trails, will be submerged. Still, when the trails are above water, they provide superb access to the region's biodiversity.

Trails

Things to do Outside Congaree National Park

Things to do Outside Congaree National Park

The choice of cuisines in area restaurants ranges from southern barbecue at Big T Bar-B-Q to breakfast specials at JD's Place. Meanwhile, you can drive only about 30 minutes to the state capital and visit the Columbia Zoo, catch a Columbia Fireflies game during baseball season, or take a tour of the Columbia Museum of Art.

Restaurants

Shopping

Sightseeing

RV Resorts & Campsites near Congaree National Park

RV camping is not available at Congaree National Park. All of the campsites are walk-in and for tent camping only. You'll find both private RV resorts in surrounding cities and campgrounds near Congaree National Park that accommodate RVs at Francis Marion National Forest.

RV Resorts & Campsites near Congaree National Park

Campgrounds Near Congaree National Park

Find the Best Dumpstations Near Congaree National Park

Find the Best Dumpstations Near Congaree National Park

An unglamorous but necessary aspect of RVing? Dump stations. Knowing where the best dump stations are near you will allow for more ease and less stress in your travels. Dump stations are an easy and convenient way to clear waste from your RV. Use our guides to find dump stations on your route, so you can get back to the good stuff – exploring, relaxing, and making memories on the road.

Dumpstations Near Congaree National Park

How to get to Congaree National Park

How to get to Congaree National Park

The closest major airport is Columbia Metropolitan Airport. To get to Congaree National Park from there, take Airport Boulevard northeast. Cross under Route 26, and then turn southeast at the next light. Follow that access road, and merge onto Route 26 going south. Follow the signs for Route 77, which is also known as the Veterans Memorial Highway and head east. Follow the signs for Route 48/Bluff Road. Drive south-southeast on Route 48. Then, follow the signs for Congaree National Park. The next nearest airport is Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Begin driving to Congaree National Park by heading west on Route 74 after exiting the airport grounds. Follow the signs for Route 485 South. Continue on Route 485 and then take Route 77 going south until you reach the junction with Route 48. Drive southeast on Route 48, which will take you to Congaree National Park. Watch for the signs.

FAQ Icon
Frequently Asked Questions
    What is the best time of year to visit Congaree National Park?

    Early spring before the bugs and early fall after the bugs are the best times to visit. They also happen to be the least busy times, so you can explore in solitude.

    What are the top things to do in Congaree National Park?

    Hiking the Boardwalk Loop is the most popular activity, but kayaking or canoeing the many waterways in the park is a close second. Remember that the park doesn't actually rent canoes or kayaks, so you'd have to rent them before arriving.

    Are pets allowed at Congaree National Park?

    Pets are allowed in Congaree National Park. Keep them on a leash, and clean up after them. Be sure to check your pet thoroughly for ticks if you've taken it on a hike through the woods.

    Are there designated camping spots in Congaree National Park?

    No, there is only tent camping in the park and in the backcountry.

    Is Congaree National Park accessible for disabled visitors?

    The park is as accessible as possible when considering the fact that it's prone to flooding at any time. You can secure an all-terrain wheelchair at the visitor center to be able to enjoy the park's 10 hiking trails, and the buildings in the whole park are accessible as well.