Throughout 2016, we’re celebrating the 100th anniversary of the National Park System by exploring the history of the parks, offering ideas about how to Find Your Park in the southeast, as well as tips to help you make the most of your park adventure.
An easy way to explore the park system is to head over to FindYourPark.com, select the state where you plan to explore, and the site will give you a variety of options from which to choose. You may also filter your search by selecting Family Friendly or Virtual Experience. Further down the page, you can narrow down your search by entering your zip code.
Last time, we explored the National Parks in North Carolina.
One of our favorite parks in South Carolina is located near Columbia, but the park feels a world away from city life. Less than 30 minutes southeast of the capital city, this national park offers incredible biodiversity. The National Park Service shares, “
has 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.”
There’s ample opportunity to enjoy the natural wonders of Congaree National Park on foot or on water. With 2.4 miles of boardwalk and over 25 miles of hiking trails, there are many ways to explore the Congaree Wilderness. Ranger and volunteer-guided programs are also led on Saturdays year-round.
The Boardwalk Loop Trail
Another marked trail invites you to explore Cedar Creek by canoe or kayak. You can bring your own non-motorized boat or rent one nearby in Columbia. Be sure to check in with the park staff about current water levels and conditions since low water or flooding is a possibility.
“Birding there is fantastic,” he continues. “The Pileated Woodpeckers that live along the river are huge and sound like they’re taking a sledgehammer to a tree. Recently, I saw one that I’d guess was 1-foot tall with over a 2-foot wingspan. I’ve spotted many Herons and Egrets along the banks of the Congaree. Osprey dive right into the creek when they’re fishing. King Fishers are super quick and nimble fisherman, too. They’re impressive to watch,” Mark marvels.
“The butterfly migration in the park is impressive, but one of my favorite annual events is the
,” Mark says. “Similar to the big firefly event in the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee, the fireflies flash in unison. It’s like nature’s Broadway show! This rare event happens only in a few places in the world, and it occurs over the course of about 2 weeks each year.” For more information about the synchronic fireflies, click HERE.
“Remember to keep your eyes peeled for snakes in the brambles and creeks along the Congaree. I’ve never had an issue with them, but it’s always wise to be aware,” Mark advises.
Get started planning your visit to the Congaree National Park, any of the 47 South Carolina State Parks, and the seven National Park properties in South Carolina and become the “Ultimate Outsider” by clicking HERE.