Located in Hopkins, South Carolina, the lovely Congaree national park is a wonderful place to visit. This beautiful park is full of natural wonders, and plenty of great things to see and do for the whole family. Whether visitors are in to fishing, canoing, kayaking, hiking, camping or just relaxing they are sure to be enthralled by the natural beauty of the park.

Visitors can start their journey at the beautifully appointed Harry Hampton Visitor Center, where they can learn about the history of the park and the many types of wildlife that call the area home. From there visitors can move on to explore the nearly 2-1/2 miles of boardwalk that make up the loop trail. This trail provides a wonderful hike for beginning hikers, and it is the perfect way to get an overview of the park’s other offerings.

If a short hike is not enough, the park offers plenty of other great trails, some 20 miles of trails in all. From easy trails to more challenging backwoods trails, the park offers plenty of chances to hike and explore the wilderness

If a single day of adventure is not enough, visitors have a number of camping options at their disposal. Overnight camping is available in a designated campsite, and amenities like portable toilets, grills, fire rings and picnic tables are available for the convenience and enjoyment of the campers. Free camping permits can be obtained at the Harry Hampton visitor Center.

Back country camping is available in the park, but campers are required to make camp at least 200 feet from trails and water, and at least 500 feet from the boardwalk and the visitor center. Unlike the other campsite, back country campsites provide no modern amenities and campers should come prepared. Free permits for back country camping are also available at the visitor center.

In addition to its beautiful hiking trails and great campsites, the park offers many magnificent waterways. These waterways are the perfect place to explore by canoe or kayak, and many visitors to the park do just that. Paddling is another great option for seeing the park by water, and a great way to view the park’s wild life as well. The Congaree national park is home to a diverse population of animals, including deer, otters, raccoons, turtles and even the occasional wild pig.

[photo courtesy of anoldent]