Congaree National Park is an absolute gem on the southeastern coast. After spending about 2 days in the park in early March 2024, I realized I needed to come back to experience more of this beautiful and peaceful palce. The park sits on a floodplain where waters from the Congaree and Wateree River flow through. Here you’ll get to see an array of biodiversity from animals to the largest intact expane of old growth bottomlan hardwood forests.
I reserved a campsite at the Longleaf campground, which was an easy walk in from the parking lot. I was nervous about walking in with my gear but I snagged the closest campsite which made things so easy! During the weekend there was a good influx of other campers and park goers, so while I was staying here alone, I never felt quote by myself. After setting up my gear I walked to the visitor center and around the boardwalk while the sun set.
The next was by far the best! I booked a kayaking tour with Caroline Outdoor Adventures and I cannot recommend them enough! We had 3 guides in the small group and they were amazing! Their knowledge of the park was great and made for an overall really enjoyable experience on the the river. During the trip we heard lots of birds and spotted 2 different snakes. Because the waters were a bit high we were also able to explore a part of the park not usually accessible from the river. It was cool and misty/foggy during the day creating an earie atmopsher while paddling through the park. The height of the cypress trees were intimidating to say the least, towering over us on the river. I definitely look forward to getting back to Congaree National Park and exploring more of its beauty.
Bates Ferry Trailhead follows a 1920’s ferry road south to the Congaree and is a remnant of the areas rich history, which includes colonial era ferries which once crossed near here. I made my way here on my last day but due to the water being high still I wasn’t able to cross over a gushing stream. I’d love to tackle this again!
To round out my strip on the way back to the airport I also stopped at an old cemetary and Lee State Park in North Carolina where I walked around a pond with turtles and found an old well. As water bubbled up I took a few sips for a unique experience. Thanks for joining me and see you on the next adventure!
GreenWorldGlimpse 