Best Short Guide to Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park is a 26,000-acre national park and wilderness area located just south of Columbia, South Carolina where you can rent an RV. The beautiful Cedar Creek winds through the park, creating a natural oasis for wildlife as well as a destination for people from all around the world. Congaree National Park is the only national park in South Carolina. While many forests were demolished for lumber in the past, Congaree Forest has been largely untouched and thanks to the work of conservationists, turned into a national monument and eventually a national park in 2003.  

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

Kayaking and canoeing. Since Congaree is largely encompassed by the water and floodplain, getting out on the water is one of the best ways to experience it! You can enjoy winding through the Congaree woods and forest on Cedar Creek and you’re bound to spot many variety of birds, forest animals, and different vegetation along the way. There are several outfitters that can supply your floating needs like Palmetto Outdoors, River Runner Outdoor Center and Carolina Outdoor Adventures.

Walking trails. Since most of the National Park lies in a floodplain area, the surrounding area is fairly flat making it very easy for a nice long walk in nature for those of all ages and physical activity levels. There are walking trails for every level and length-desired. A few popular trails include:

Boardwalk Loop Trail – an easy 2.6 miles round trip trail that takes off from Harry Hampton Visitor Center.

Bluff Trail – an easy 1.8 mile round trip loop that’s trailhead picks up just north of the Visitor Center.

Weston Lake Loop Trail – a moderate 4.4 mile round trip trail that is dog-friendly.

Fishing. Recreational fishing is allowed the Park with a valid South Carolina fishing license. There are certain rules and regulation that should be adhered to such as no fishing on or within 25-feet of any man-made structure, be respectful of the natural surroundings and beauty of the area, and only catching legal size and type of fish. 

RV CAMPING IN THE PARK + NEARBY

While there are several options for tent camping within Congaree National Park, there are no RV-friendly camping sites within the park. However, there are a few options in the relative that offer RV camping sites and a great home base for your trip.

Barn Yard RV Park: Located off Highway 1 and in close proximity to I-20 and I-26, Barn Yard RV is a great central location to access many attractions. All their sites are level, roomy, and include amenities like water, sewer, electrical (30 and 50 amp) and cable. Whether you need a pull-thru or a back-in spot, they’ve got a mix of both to fit your needs.

Santee Lakes Koa Campsite: There are several RV site options at Santee Lake Koa Campsite. Whether you want a pull-thru or a back-in site, 30 or 50 amps, full hook ups or just water and electrical, you’ll find a site that fits your needs.

Columbia-Camden RV Park: Located between Columbia and Camden, this RV Park has 83 full service pull through camping sites with 30 or 50 amps, sewer dump, and water for all their sites. They also have a laundry facility and bath house on site for those who need those facilities.

Congaree National Park is a great adventure for everyone in the family. Enjoy kayaking and canoeing along the Cedar Creek, walking the boardwalk trails, or casting a line and catching a fish on a balmy South Carolina afternoon. With several RV resorts and RV rentals nearby, you’ll definitely be able to find a site that fits your desires and have a great South Carolina getaway exploring a beautiful and peaceful slice of nature’s beauty.