Congaree National Park
2 campgrounds in the park · 54 nearby within 50 mi
Photo: NPS
4 current alerts
As of Sep 20, 2026 · from nps.gov
- CautionBeing Prepared for Excessive Heat & HumidityCongaree can be hot & humid from late spring through early fall. Be sure that you & your party (including pets) have adequate water & choose activities that fit your level of physical fitness. Consider visiting early in the morning when it is cooler.
- CautionPaddling ConditionsTrees down across Cedar Creek between Bannister's Bridge and South Cedar Creek may require significant portages depending on water levels & paddlers should plan accordingly. All paddlers should have necessary equipment, including the 10 Essentials.
- CautionBackcountry Trail ConditionsGPS is necessary on backcountry trails: Oakridge, Boggy Gut (formerly River), and Kingsnake. These trails may be difficult to follow.
- InformationPlanning Ahead for TransportationIf being dropped off at the park, please ensure you will have a return ride. Taxis and rideshares do not often come out to Congaree, and the bus may be unavailable. Please plan ahead.
At a glance
- Open
- Year-round
- In the park
- 2 campgrounds1 reserve on Recreation.gov
- Near the park
- 54 campgroundsWithin 50 mi
Where to camp
Camping in the park 2
Camping near the park 54
- Aerial viewCampground
Bluff Campground
4.7 mi · Gadsden, SC
- Aerial viewState Park
Poinsett State Park Campground
12 mi · Wedgefield, SC
Services nearby: 5 dump stations · 13 rest areas
About Congaree
Astonishing biodiversity exists in Congaree National Park, the largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States. Waters from the Congaree and Wateree Rivers sweep through the floodplain, carrying…
Astonishing biodiversity exists in Congaree National Park, the largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States. Waters from the Congaree and Wateree Rivers sweep through the floodplain, carrying nutrients and sediments that nourish and rejuvenate this ecosystem and support the growth of national and state champion trees.
Things to do
- Camping
- Backcountry Camping
- Canoe or Kayak Camping
- Car or Front Country Camping
- Group Camping
- Fishing
- Freshwater Fishing
- Food
- Picnicking
Plan your visit
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…
Weather
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.
Plan your visit
Hours
Congaree National Park is generally open 24 hours a day year-round. For visitor and staff safety, park operations and/or weather conditions may occasionally result in short term, temporary closures. Please review the park webpage and social media platforms for more information. The Harry Hampton Visitor Center is open 9-5, daily. It is closed New Year's Day, President's Day, Columbus Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day. Please check alerts prior to your visit.
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
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.
Camped at Congaree? You could be the first to say which site you'd pick again.
Reviews, photos and cell signal reports from real stays help the next camper choose between Bluff Hike In Camping and Longleaf Campground.