Along a county road that slices it's way through the swamps and flood plains of Hopkins, SC about 20 minutes outside downtown Columbia, you will find Congaree National Park. The peace and quiet of the park practically begs visitors to lose themselves in the embrace of the enormous tree canopy of old growth oaks, pines, and cypress that stretch towards the sky and boast some of the kind to be found in the state of South Carolina.
Every step along the 2.5 mile raised boardwalk offers park goers another incredible opportunity to witness the wonders of unspoiled nature and discover any of a wide variety of insects, birds, wild pigs, reptiles, and various other animals that make their home in the wilderness of Congaree National Park.
While the boardwalk itself offers an easy going experience for those that enjoy a stroll, there are many trails off the beaten path for more adventurous spirits. These hiking trails, 8 in all, wind their way through the forest and stretch from .3 miles to 11.7 miles long and offer some breath taking views of Cedar Creek and the Congaree River.
For those that feel that the park is too much to take in for just a day, Congaree National Park also offer excellent camping at various sites throughout the grounds. Fishing is also allowed in the park with a valid SC fishing license which is only $10 for fresh water residential.
If fishing is of no interest to you but you are still a fan of the water in general then feel free to explore the water ways by canoe or kayak. Opportunities are present for all skill levels from casual day trips to longer events deep into the back country of Congaree.
One such experience, The Cedar Creek Canoe trail, is a marked trail that slivers it's way 15 miles to the Congaree River. There are also guided canoe tours that can be reserved and last about 3 and a half to 4 hours. Guided tours are offered in the Spring Season from April 1 - June 18 on Friday, Saturday, and Sundays and the Fall Season September 1 - November 18 on Fridays and Saturdays. Dates for all the parks upcoming events can be found on their calendar.
52 Saturdays a series of blogs written by JL Boney, about sights, points of interest, and things to do throughout the Greater Columbia, SC Area. It is meant to inspire you to explore everything we have to offer. So get out there and enjoy yourself. If you like what you see and what more info about previous articles or would like to make suggestion, please feel free to contact me at 803-730-9601 or email at James_Boney@yahoo.com. If you would like to call Columbia, SC or any of the surrounding areas home, I have you covered there too. Please visit Columbia, SC Homes for Sale and start your home search.
52 Saturdays - Week 1 - Doko Meadows
52 Saturdays - Week 2 - Edventure Children's Museum
52 Saturdays - Week 3 - Frankie's Fun Park
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