{"id":40752,"date":"2019-04-05T05:00:00","date_gmt":"2019-04-05T12:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/localadventurer.com\/?p=40752"},"modified":"2025-04-02T10:39:04","modified_gmt":"2025-04-02T17:39:04","slug":"things-to-do-in-congaree-national-park-sc","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/things-to-do-in-congaree-national-park-sc\/","title":{"rendered":"7 Unique Things to Do in Congaree National Park"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em>Visiting Congaree National Park? Don&#8217;t miss these things!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019m terrified of bugs. Ask Jacob. I\u2019ll be scrolling through Instagram and even if a photo of a bug comes up, I chuck my phone across the room. I still remember reading books in biology class where I would have to cover up the photo before I could read the page (so I promise no pictures of bugs!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When we were heading to Congaree National Park with Experience Columbia SC, I started to do some research and saw that one of the things repeatedly mentioned was\u2026&nbsp;<em>the bugs.&nbsp;<\/em>I just about had an anxiety attack right then and there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1080\" height=\"1620\" src=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide.jpg\" alt=\"Congaree National Park Guide\" class=\"wp-image-46822\" srcset=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide-600x900.jpg 600w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide-400x600.jpg 400w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide-610x915.jpg 610w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide-390x585.jpg 390w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide-260x390.jpg 260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"padding: 15px;font-size:12px;background-color:#f2f4f7;text-align:center;\"><em>A big thank you to Experience Columbia SC for hosting our trip and sponsoring this post. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read <a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/disclosure\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">our full disclosure<\/a>&nbsp;for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"padding:10px 0px;\">\n<script type=\"module\" crossorigin src=\"https:\/\/instaread.co\/js\/instaread.player.js\"><\/script>\n\n<instaread-player publication=\"localadventurer\"><\/instaread-player>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p style=\"font-size:12px\"><em>Last Updated: <\/em>April 2, 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"expandable-list\" class=\"wp-block-local-adventurer-expandable-list\"><input class=\"expandable-list-checkbox\" type=\"checkbox\" checked id=\"content-menu\"\/><label for=\"content-menu\"><h5 class=\"expandable-list-title\"><span class=\"expandable-list-icon\">\u2212<\/span><span class=\"expandable-list-icon-2\">\u2212<\/span>Content Menu<\/h5><\/label><ul class=\"expandable-list-items\"><li><a href=\"#best\">7 Unique Things to Do in Congaree National Park<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#fireflies\">The Synchronous Fireflies<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#before\">What You Need to Know Before You Go<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#directions\">Directions<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#pack\">What to Pack<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#nearby\">What&#8217;s Nearby<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#stay\">Best Places to Stay<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#checklist\">Planning Checklist<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#resources\">More Resources<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"best\"><u>7 Unique Things to Do in Congaree National Park<\/u><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>So why would I put myself through that?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I hate the idea that a fear can hold me back from doing something that I truly enjoy. I still have fond memories of summer nights as a kid playing outside chasing fireflies as they light up the night. Sometime as I grew older, I learned to fear bugs.&nbsp; When I found out that there was a place where hundreds of them blink in synchronization, I knew I had to see this phenomenon for myself. Maybe it was about time to&nbsp;get over my fear of bugs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re visiting South Carolina or like exploring&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/list-of-us-national-parks-systems\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">all the National Parks<\/a>&nbsp;like us, you need to visit Congaree National Park. We put together a list of all the best things to do here and our experiences with each.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Hiking a Trail at Congaree National Park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Hiking is one of the best ways to see Congaree National Park. There is a short Boardwalk Trail, multiple established trails, and you can even explore the backcountry. Since we only had a short time at the park (and Esther is deathly afraid of bugs), we only explore the Boardwalk Trail, but we were still able to see how full of life the park is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:5px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-none\">Established Hiking Trails in Congaree National Park<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/alltrails.pxf.io\/B07zW4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Boardwalk Loop Trail<\/a><\/strong> (2.4 miles) \u2013 An elevated trail that takes you through the old-grown hardwood forest. There is also a brochure you can pick up at the Visitor Center to learn more about the natural and cultural history.&nbsp;Watch out for spiders on the boardwalk.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/alltrails.pxf.io\/vNY4XN\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Bluff Trail<\/a><\/strong> (1.7 miles) \u2013 Takes you through a young forest of loblolly and longleaf pines.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/alltrails.pxf.io\/4PXr3G\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Sims Trail<\/a><\/strong> (3.2 miles) \u2013 Follows an&nbsp;old gravel road and crosses the site of a hunt club where Harry Hampton was once a member.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/alltrails.pxf.io\/zNYeQ7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Weston Lake Loop Trail<\/a><\/strong> (4.4 miles) \u2013 Gives you great views of Cedar Creek.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/alltrails.pxf.io\/EK7znn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Oakridge Trail<\/a><\/strong> (7 miles) \u2013 Hike through old-growth forest, along a subtle ridge, and keep your eye out for wildlife like deer and turkey.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/alltrails.pxf.io\/R57Ozy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">River Trail<\/a><\/strong> (10.4 miles) \u2013 Hike to Congaree River through dense vegetation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/alltrails.pxf.io\/Nk7QgN\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Kingsnake Trail<\/a><\/strong> (11.7 miles) \u2013 A favorite for birders.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/alltrails.pxf.io\/y2Yezy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Bates Ferry Trail<\/a><\/strong> (2.2 miles) \u2013 Follow a 1920s ferry road south to the Congaree.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Longleaf Trail<\/strong> (0.3 miles) \u2013 Short train from Bluff Trail that gives access to Longleaf Campground.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"http:\/\/alltrails.pxf.io\/Y97qOq\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Fork Swamp Trail<\/a><\/strong> (0.6 miles) \u2013 This trail is the newest in the park and gives access to the Fork Swamp area of the park<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1080\" height=\"720\" src=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-hiking-trails.jpg\" alt=\"Want to make the most of your visit to Congaree National Park South Carolina? Save this pin and click through to find a list of the best things to do in Congaree National Park, when to visit to see the synchronous fireflies, how to best see the Congaree river, and what you should pack for your trip. This is one of the best places to visit in south carolina. \/\/ Local Adventurer #localadventurer #discoverSC #southcarolina #visittheusa #realcolumbiasc\" class=\"wp-image-40786\" srcset=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-hiking-trails.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-hiking-trails-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-hiking-trails-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-hiking-trails-728x485.jpg 728w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-hiking-trails-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-hiking-trails-610x407.jpg 610w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-hiking-trails-878x585.jpg 878w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-hiking-trails-585x390.jpg 585w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-hiking-trails.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Go on a Guided Walk and Talk<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to learn more about the natural and cultural history of the park, go on a guided walk and talk led by park rangers or volunteers. You can see what is planned on the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/cong\/planyourvisit\/events.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Schedule of Events<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Nature Discovery Walk<\/strong> \u2013 A knowledgeable volunteer naturalist takes you along the boardwalk and tells you more about the park wildlife and plant life.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Big Tree Hike<\/strong> \u2013 John Cely, the park founder, takes you on a 3-hour and 5-mile hike to some of the National Park\u2019s big trees.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Canoe or Kayak on the Congaree River<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to see the park from a different angle, you can hop in a canoe or kayak and follow the marked Cedar Creek Canoe Trail. This route is approximately 15 miles and takes you through some of the most beautiful portions of the park. We loved being able to kayak up to the bald cypress trees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff865c;\"><strong>Note:<\/strong><\/span> Stay midstream. Watch out for snakes, poison ivy vines, spiders, wasps and other stinging insects along and in the river (especially in the summer). Snakes and spiders falling into your canoe or kayak are the biggest reasons people tend to flip. Be sure to check in with the Visitor Center to find out current conditions, but here are a few things to keep in mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You must bring your canoe or kayak.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The park does not rent canoes or kayaks but there are outfitters in Columbia, SC.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Have all the appropriate equipment (personal floatation device, whistle, weather appropritate clothes, water, food, sunscreen, and insect repellent).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Water levels can affect the visibility of the canoe trail markers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Always carry a map and compass regardless of how long you plan on paddling.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Water levels can fluctuate up to 10 feet on the creek \u2013 be aware of what they are before starting.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>When the water levels are high, the current can be unpredictable and dangerous.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Downed trees and log jams are common.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you see an obstacle along the trail, report it to the park ranger so they can pass along that information.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:8px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bonus: Paddle the Congaree River Blue Trail<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>For the serious paddlers, check out this 50-mile designated trail. It runs from Columbia to Congaree National Park. Starting the trail in an urban environment really shows you the contrast as you continue to float downstream and enter the National Park. Although it\u2019s only 50 miles, it feels like you\u2019re in a completely different world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1080\" height=\"1620\" data-id=\"40774\" src=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A1_congaree-national-park-kayak.jpg\" alt=\"7 Unique Things to Do in Congaree National Park in Columbia South Carolina\" class=\"wp-image-40774\" srcset=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A1_congaree-national-park-kayak.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A1_congaree-national-park-kayak-600x900.jpg 600w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A1_congaree-national-park-kayak-400x600.jpg 400w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A1_congaree-national-park-kayak-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A1_congaree-national-park-kayak-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A1_congaree-national-park-kayak-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A1_congaree-national-park-kayak-610x915.jpg 610w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A1_congaree-national-park-kayak-390x585.jpg 390w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A1_congaree-national-park-kayak-260x390.jpg 260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1080\" height=\"1620\" data-id=\"40773\" src=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A2_congaree-national-park-kayak.jpg\" alt=\"7 Unique Things to Do in Congaree National Park in Columbia South Carolina\" class=\"wp-image-40773\" srcset=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A2_congaree-national-park-kayak.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A2_congaree-national-park-kayak-600x900.jpg 600w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A2_congaree-national-park-kayak-400x600.jpg 400w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A2_congaree-national-park-kayak-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A2_congaree-national-park-kayak-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A2_congaree-national-park-kayak-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A2_congaree-national-park-kayak-610x915.jpg 610w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A2_congaree-national-park-kayak-390x585.jpg 390w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/A2_congaree-national-park-kayak-260x390.jpg 260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Go on a Ranger Led Canoe Tour<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are a novice paddler or don\u2019t want to bother with your own equipment, sign up for a Ranger Led Canoe Tour. These only happen in the Spring (usually in April and May) and Fall (September to mid-November) on Friday and Saturdays. As they expertly guide you along the river, they will tell you more about the natural and cultural history of the park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I highly recommend doing this if you visit during the tour season. It\u2019s amazing how calming it can be as you float down the river, and something about not being on a trail made it feel like I was exploring untouched land.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The tour lasts roughly 3.5-4 hours and each tour is limited to 12 people. Reservations can be made through Recreation.gov and each month\u2019s tours open for reservation on the first of the prior month.&nbsp;The park staff will cancel tours for a number of reasons, like inclement weather, high winds, or unsafe water conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"margin-none\">Participants must meet the following requirement:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>At least one person must have experience.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>At least one adult (18 or older) must be in each canoe<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Children must be at least 6 years old<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Participants must know how to swim without the aid of a flotation device<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"margin-none\">The park provides all canoes, paddles, and personal flotation devices, you are responsible for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Weather appropriate clothes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Footwear that straps or ties around feet (flip flops or Crocs are not permitted).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Water (at least 1 liter per person)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Snacks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sunscreen<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Insect Repellent<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"fireflies\">5. Catch the Synchronous Fireflies<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This is the biggest highlight of the park. Every year sometime between mid-May and mid-June, visitors flock to the park to see the awe-inspiring display of the synchronous fireflies (<em>photuris frontalis)<\/em>. They do this as they search for mates. There are only three known places in the Western Hemisphere that are known to have fireflies that synchronize their flashes and Congaree National park is one of these places!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This was the main reason we visited the park, but unfortunately, we missed the fireflies by two days! After dark, we were still able to see plenty of fireflies but we\u2019ll have to visit again to catch the synchronous fireflies in the future. You can look up&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/500px.com\/search\/Synchronous-Fireflies-stock-photos\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">photos of what they look like here<\/a>. They generally stay near the ground and look so trippy! Since we missed out, I just put together layers and layers of fireflies we saw that night, but these were not even the same species of firefly. Did you know that fireflies only live a couple weeks for the purpose of mating and die shortly after they mate?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:5px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-none\">Viewing Tips:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The Visitor Center is open for extended hours during the Synchronous Fireflies Season (usually until 10 PM).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You can find updates on the fireflies&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/cong\/fireflies.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">here<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Because of the large number of attendees, there is a designed Fireflies trail that gives access to the best viewing areas.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wear closed toed shoes as there are roots and biting insects along the trail.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Setting up chairs, hammocks, and\/or blankets is not allowed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you plan on using insect repellent, apply it BEFORE entering the park. It repellent will affect the fireflies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flashlights should only be used when absolutely necessary and when used, they should be pointed at the ground.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you plan on shooting, do not use flash. This should be obvious for any photographer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Parking is very limited. Carpool if possible.&nbsp;Arrive at 6 to get a decent parking spot (since there are only 50 established spots) otherwise you have to walk.&nbsp; During the 2018 season, there were over 600 cars and 1000 people on the busiest night.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not capture fireflies in jars or take them with you.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Unlike fireflies when they normally fly around, they usually only hover 3-4 feet above ground during synchronization.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1080\" height=\"1080\" src=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-synchronous-fireflies-sq.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-40789\" srcset=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-synchronous-fireflies-sq.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-synchronous-fireflies-sq-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-synchronous-fireflies-sq-100x100.jpg 100w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-synchronous-fireflies-sq-600x600.jpg 600w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-synchronous-fireflies-sq-400x400.jpg 400w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-synchronous-fireflies-sq-728x728.jpg 728w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-synchronous-fireflies-sq-157x157.jpg 157w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-synchronous-fireflies-sq-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-synchronous-fireflies-sq-610x610.jpg 610w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-synchronous-fireflies-sq-250x250.jpg 250w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-synchronous-fireflies-sq-585x585.jpg 585w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-synchronous-fireflies-sq-390x390.jpg 390w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-synchronous-fireflies-sq-253x253.jpg 253w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-synchronous-fireflies-sq-120x120.jpg 120w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-synchronous-fireflies-sq-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Camping<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are two designated campgrounds in Congaree National Park:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Longleaf Campground <\/strong>has 10 individual and 4 group camping sites. Individual sites can have up to 3 tents and 8 people, group sites can have up to 10 tents and between 9 to 24 people. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table, and there are two vault toilets at the front of the campground. Fees: $15 per night for individual&nbsp;sites, $25 per night for group sites.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bluff Campground<\/strong> has no vehicle access so you have to carry in your own equipment. There are 6 individual sites that allow up to 3 tents and 8 people. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table, and there are no restrooms. Fees: $10 per night for individual&nbsp;sites.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also Backcountry Camp for free, but you must get a permit at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center on the day of your arrival to the park. To obtain a permit, you must have a valid state-issued ID.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"margin-none\"><strong>More helpful info:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You can get water 24 hours a day at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Camping in Congaree is tent only (no RV or car camping).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You can camp up to 14 consecutive days, and no more than 28 days in a six month period.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fires are only permitted in designated fire rings and firewood must be purchased from a local supplier (must provide receipt) or wood that is certified USDA pest free (must have original packaging). You cannot bring in any other wood, and dead wood can be collected from surrounding areas for fires, but you cannot cut live trees down.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Fishing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Congaree National Park is also a great place to fish and is allowed with a valid South Carolina fishing license. It is permitted in all areas of the park except for the Weston Lake overlook and the area 100 feet around the overlook.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff865c;\"><strong><strong>What you can catch<\/strong>:<\/strong><\/span> Catfish,&nbsp;bream,&nbsp;crappie&nbsp;and others can be caught in Cedar Creek or in Oxbow lakes and striped bass on the Congaree river.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"before\"><u>What You Need to Know Before You Go<\/u><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Congaree National Park is amongst a humid subtropical climate. Although you can visit during any season, the best time to go is spring and fall because the weather is best. Note that almost 80% of the park is within the floodplain of the Congaree River, which means flooding occurs throughout the year (usually about ten times a year).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Spring<\/strong> (March to May) \u2013 Best time to visit the park. Highs of mid to upper 70s and insects are generally not a problem during this time. The park has an official mosquito meter that goes from mild to war zone.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Summer<\/strong> (June to August) \u2013 This is the hottest time of the year with temperatures up to the 90s with high humidity. Thunderstorms are common and can occur with little to no warning.&nbsp;We visited in early June, where it was hot and humid and the mosquitoes were out for blood. However, it\u2019s the only time you can see the synchronous fireflies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fall<\/strong> (September to November) \u2013 Average daily temperatures in the 70s with low humidity. Fall colors peak between late October and early November. Water levels are ideal for paddling on Cedar Creek.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Winter<\/strong> (November to February) \u2013 Mild temperatures with highs of the mid-50s. Nighttime can dip below freezing. Flooding is most frequent this time of year.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:8px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visitor Center &amp; Fees<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Entrance to Congaree National Park is free. The Harry Hampton Visitor Center is open 7 days a week, 9 AM to 5 PM (closed on federal holidays). Trail maps, brochures, water, and restrooms are available at the Visitor Center breezeway 24 hours a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:5px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"directions\">Directions<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Since some GPS devices don\u2019t give accurate directions, use the following address for driving directions: 100 National Park Road, Hopkins, SC. The nearest major airport is Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-none\" id=\"pack\"><u>What to Pack<\/u><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Weather Appropriate Clothes. I packed a dress for the photos, but if you\u2019re exploring the park, you\u2019ll want to wear clothes that are wicking and cooling.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/go.localadventurer.com\/exofficio-bugsaway\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">ExOfficio Bugsaway<\/a>&nbsp;gives you an extra layer of protection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hat and\/or <a href=\"https:\/\/go.localadventurer.com\/ombraz-sunglasses\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Sunglasses<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/go.localadventurer.com\/face-sunscreen\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Sunscreen<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/go.localadventurer.com\/danner\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Waterproof Hiking Boots<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/go.localadventurer.com\/bug-spray\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Insect Repellent<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/go.localadventurer.com\/bug-bite-thing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">The Bug Bite Thing<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-none\" id=\"nearby\"><u>What&#8217;s Nearby<\/u><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Riverbanks Zoo &amp; Garden (20 mi \/ 30 min,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/dir\/Harry+Hampton+Visitor+Center,+100+National+Park+Rd,+Hopkins,+SC+29061\/Riverbanks+Zoo+and+Garden,+500+Wildlife+Pkwy,+Columbia,+SC+29210\/@33.9281774,-81.1068301,11z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x88f8b5465afe9f67:0xac5565712b487386!2m2!1d-80.8233757!2d33.8296017!1m5!1m1!1s0x88f8a3558f7221af:0x5194361d1b5e0bb8!2m2!1d-81.0729922!2d34.009949!3e0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">map<\/a>)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Charles Pinckney National Historic Site (112 mi \/ 2 hrs, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/dir\/Harry+Hampton+Visitor+Center,+100+National+Park+Rd,+Hopkins,+SC+29061\/Charles+Pinckney+National+Historic+Site,+1254+Long+Point+Rd,+Mt+Pleasant,+SC+29464\/@33.9281774,-81.1068301,11z\/data=!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x88f8b5465afe9f67:0xac5565712b487386!2m2!1d-80.8233757!2d33.8296017!1m5!1m1!1s0x88fe6dff3ac4d0a9:0x8e5cf4e0e3e06d36!2m2!1d-79.8239599!2d32.8455749!3e0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">map<\/a>)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cowpens National Battlefield (135 mi \/ 2 hrs 7 mins,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/dir\/Harry+Hampton+Visitor+Center,+100+National+Park+Rd,+Hopkins,+SC+29061\/Cowpens+National+Battlefield,+4001+Chesnee+Hwy,+Gaffney,+SC+29341\/@34.484999,-81.9745649,9z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x88f8b5465afe9f67:0xac5565712b487386!2m2!1d-80.8233757!2d33.8296017!1m5!1m1!1s0x88571268def6ae49:0xd8ceb867e47dd955!2m2!1d-81.8181625!2d35.1367361!3e0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">map<\/a>)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fort Sumter National Monument and Fort Moultrie (111 mi \/ 2 hrs,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/dir\/Harry+Hampton+Visitor+Center,+100+National+Park+Rd,+Hopkins,+SC+29061\/Fort+Moultrie,+1214+Middle+St,+Sullivan's+Island,+SC+29482\/@33.3546553,-81.0138091,9z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x88f8b5465afe9f67:0xac5565712b487386!2m2!1d-80.8233757!2d33.8296017!1m5!1m1!1s0x88fe713374e6a5d5:0x17159f8cfd9e25cc!2m2!1d-79.8578543!2d32.7592457!3e0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">map<\/a>)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gullah\/Geechee National Heritage Corridor (109 mi \/ 2 hrs,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/dir\/Harry+Hampton+Visitor+Center,+100+National+Park+Rd,+Hopkins,+SC+29061\/Gullah-Geechee+Corridor,+2817+Maybank+Hwy,+Johns+Island,+SC+29455\/@33.3432407,-81.067411,9z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x88f8b5465afe9f67:0xac5565712b487386!2m2!1d-80.8233757!2d33.8296017!1m5!1m1!1s0x88fe7133870aad39:0x7519d27d7cb29163!2m2!1d-80.038953!2d32.742179!3e0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">map<\/a>)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"stay\"><u>Best Places to Stay<\/u><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>With Columbia, SC so close, you can stay in the city and visit the park each day. We stayed at&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking\/us\/trundle?aid=localadventurer&amp;campaign=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><strong>Hotel Trundle<\/strong><\/a>, which is Main Street\u2019s first boutique hotel, and we absolutely loved our room. It was really convenient to downtown and the staff was so friendly. When you want to head to the park, it\u2019s only 30 minutes away and less than 20 miles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/embed\/gm?aid=5fb572830099f500178b7a5a&#038;address=Columbia, South Carolina&#038;checkin=&#038;markerimage=https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/huedhbm8g\/image\/upload\/v1606334176\/temp\/5fb83b5143166b0017609095-1606334176.png&#038;maincolor=6A5A97\" id=\"stay22-widget\" width=\"100%\" height=\"460\" frameborder=\"0\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-none padding-none\" id=\"checklist\"><u>Planning Checklist<\/u><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns margin-none padding-none is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Get <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/go.localadventurer.com\/travel-insurance\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">comprehensive insurance<\/a><\/strong> for your trip.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Download <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/best-language-apps-for-travel\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">these helpful language apps<\/a>.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Find a great deal on <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/embed\/gm?aid=5fb572830099f500178b7a5a&amp;address=Columbia, South Carolina&amp;checkin=&amp;markerimage=https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/huedhbm8g\/image\/upload\/v1606334176\/temp\/5fb83b5143166b0017609095-1606334176.png&amp;maincolor=6A5A97\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Columbia hotels<\/a><\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Arrange a <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/go.localadventurer.com\/rental-car\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">rental car<\/a><\/strong> for your trip.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Get <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/go.localadventurer.com\/priority-pass\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">airport lounge access<\/a><\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Buy a <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/go.localadventurer.com\/portable-charger\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">travel charger<\/a><\/strong> to keep your devices charged.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Get a new <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/best-travel-backpack\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">backpack<\/a><\/strong> for your trip.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Buy a <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3X1kwVf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Congaree NP travel guide<\/a><\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pack the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/best-travel-shoes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">appropriate shoes<\/a><\/strong> for your trip.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Don&#8217;t forget your <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/carry-on-essentials\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">in-flight essentials<\/a><\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-none\" id=\"resources\"><u>More Resources<\/u><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3X1kwVf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Congaree National Park (Images of Modern America)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4bWR4V7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Nature\u2019s Return: An Environmental History of Congaree National Park<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3yGPBTY\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Fodor\u2019s The Carolinas &amp; Georgia<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p><em style=\"color: rgb(255, 134, 92); font-weight: bold;\">Have you been to Congaree National Park? Did you get to see the synchronous fireflies?<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"pins\"><u>Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later<\/u><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1080\" height=\"1620\" data-id=\"40781\" src=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-kayak_F3.jpg\" alt=\"Kayaking in Congaree National Park South Carolina\" class=\"wp-image-40781\" srcset=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-kayak_F3.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-kayak_F3-600x900.jpg 600w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-kayak_F3-400x600.jpg 400w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-kayak_F3-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-kayak_F3-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-kayak_F3-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-kayak_F3-610x915.jpg 610w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-kayak_F3-390x585.jpg 390w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-kayak_F3-260x390.jpg 260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1080\" height=\"1620\" data-id=\"40782\" src=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-fireflies_F2.jpg\" alt=\"Synchronous fireflies in Congaree National Park\" class=\"wp-image-40782\" srcset=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-fireflies_F2.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-fireflies_F2-600x900.jpg 600w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-fireflies_F2-400x600.jpg 400w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-fireflies_F2-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-fireflies_F2-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-fireflies_F2-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-fireflies_F2-610x915.jpg 610w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-fireflies_F2-390x585.jpg 390w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-fireflies_F2-260x390.jpg 260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1080\" height=\"1620\" data-id=\"40783\" src=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-south-carolina-forests_F1.jpg\" alt=\"Best things to do in Columbia SC - Congaree National Park\" class=\"wp-image-40783\" srcset=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-south-carolina-forests_F1.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-south-carolina-forests_F1-600x900.jpg 600w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-south-carolina-forests_F1-400x600.jpg 400w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-south-carolina-forests_F1-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-south-carolina-forests_F1-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-south-carolina-forests_F1-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-south-carolina-forests_F1-610x915.jpg 610w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-south-carolina-forests_F1-390x585.jpg 390w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-south-carolina-forests_F1-260x390.jpg 260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1080\" height=\"1620\" data-id=\"40770\" src=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/synchronous-fireflies-congaree-national-park.jpg\" alt=\"7 best things to do in Congaree National Park South Carolina\" class=\"wp-image-40770\" srcset=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/synchronous-fireflies-congaree-national-park.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/synchronous-fireflies-congaree-national-park-600x900.jpg 600w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/synchronous-fireflies-congaree-national-park-400x600.jpg 400w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/synchronous-fireflies-congaree-national-park-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/synchronous-fireflies-congaree-national-park-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/synchronous-fireflies-congaree-national-park-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/synchronous-fireflies-congaree-national-park-610x915.jpg 610w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/synchronous-fireflies-congaree-national-park-390x585.jpg 390w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/synchronous-fireflies-congaree-national-park-260x390.jpg 260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1080\" height=\"1620\" data-id=\"46823\" src=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-bucket-list.jpg\" alt=\"Congaree National Park Bucket List\" class=\"wp-image-46823\" srcset=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-bucket-list.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-bucket-list-600x900.jpg 600w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-bucket-list-400x600.jpg 400w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-bucket-list-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-bucket-list-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-bucket-list-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-bucket-list-610x915.jpg 610w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-bucket-list-390x585.jpg 390w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-bucket-list-260x390.jpg 260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1080\" height=\"1620\" data-id=\"46822\" src=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide.jpg\" alt=\"Congaree National Park Guide\" class=\"wp-image-46822\" srcset=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide-600x900.jpg 600w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide-400x600.jpg 400w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide-610x915.jpg 610w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide-390x585.jpg 390w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/congaree-national-park-guide-260x390.jpg 260w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background\" style=\"background-color:#f0f0f0\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">SEE MORE NATIONAL PARK GUIDES<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">\u27e1\u27e1\u27e1\u27e1\u27e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/things-to-do-in-acadia-national-park\/\" target=\"_blank\">ACADIA<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/things-to-do-in-arches-national-park-utah\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">ARCHES<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/things-to-do-in-badlands-national-park-south-dakota\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">BADLANDS<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/things-to-do-in-big-bend-national-park\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">BIG BEND<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/things-to-do-in-the-black-canyon-of-the-gunnison-national-park\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">BLACK CANYON GUNNISON<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/things-to-do-in-bryce-canyon-national-park\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">BRYCE CANYON<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/things-to-do-in-congaree-national-park-sc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">CONGAREE<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/crater-lake-national-park-oregon\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">CRATER LAKE<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/things-to-do-in-death-valley-national-park\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">DEATH VALLEY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/things-to-do-in-denali-national-park\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">DENALI<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/things-to-do-in-glacier-national-park-montana\/\">GLACIER<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/things-to-do-at-the-grand-canyon-national-park\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GRAND CANYON<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/best-things-to-do-in-grand-teton-national-park-wyoming\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">GRAND TETON<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/great-basin-national-park-nevada\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">GREAT BASIN<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/great-sand-dunes-national-park-colorado\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">GREAT SAND DUNES<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/things-to-do-in-joshua-tree-national-park\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">JOSHUA TREE<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/things-to-do-in-mesa-verde-national-park\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">MESA VERDE<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/things-to-do-in-redwood-national-park-state-parks\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">REDWOOD<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/things-to-do-in-saguaro-national-park\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SAGUARO<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/things-to-do-in-sequoia-national-park-kings-canyon\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SEQUOIA + KINGS CANYON<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/white-sands-national-monument-new-mexico\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">WHITE SANDS<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a style=\"font-size: revert;\" href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/things-to-do-in-yellowstone-national-park\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">YELLOWSTONE<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/best-things-to-do-in-yosemite-national-park\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">YOSEMITE<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/things-to-do-in-zion-national-park\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">ZION<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"><em>\u201cDiscovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes<\/em>\u201d \u2013 M. Proust<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"713\" height=\"713\" src=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/EJ01.png\" alt=\"Esther and Jacob\" class=\"wp-image-85462\" srcset=\"https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/EJ01.png 713w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/EJ01-400x400.png 400w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/EJ01-157x157.png 157w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/EJ01-600x600.png 600w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/EJ01-610x610.png 610w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/EJ01-250x250.png 250w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/EJ01-585x585.png 585w, https:\/\/localadventurer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/EJ01-390x390.png 390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 713px) 100vw, 713px\" \/><\/figure><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Esther + Jacob<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Follow on <a href=\"https:\/\/go.localadventurer.com\/esther-instagram\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Instagram (E <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/go.localadventurer.com\/jacob-instagram\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">+ J)<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/go.localadventurer.com\/youtube\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">YouTube<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/go.localadventurer.com\/tiktok\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">TikTok<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/go.localadventurer.com\/pin-our-blog\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Pinterest.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Visiting Congaree National Park? Don&#8217;t miss these things! I\u2019m terrified of bugs. Ask Jacob. I\u2019ll be scrolling through Instagram and even if a photo of a bug comes up, I chuck my phone across the room. I still remember reading books in biology class where I would have to cover up the photo before I [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":29,"featured_media":40786,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_eb_attr":"","inline_featured_image":false,"ocean_post_layout":"","ocean_both_sidebars_style":"","ocean_both_sidebars_content_width":0,"ocean_both_sidebars_sidebars_width":0,"ocean_sidebar":"0","ocean_second_sidebar":"0","ocean_disable_margins":"enable","ocean_add_body_class":"","ocean_shortcode_before_top_bar":"","ocean_shortcode_after_top_bar":"","ocean_shortcode_before_header":"","ocean_shortcode_after_header":"","ocean_has_shortcode":"","ocean_shortcode_after_title":"","ocean_shortcode_before_footer_widgets":"","ocean_shortcode_after_footer_widgets":"","ocean_shortcode_before_footer_bottom":"","ocean_shortcode_after_footer_bottom":"","ocean_display_top_bar":"default","ocean_display_header":"default","ocean_header_style":"","ocean_center_header_left_menu":"0","ocean_custom_header_template":"0","ocean_custom_logo":0,"ocean_custom_retina_logo":0,"ocean_custom_logo_max_width":0,"ocean_custom_logo_tablet_max_width":0,"ocean_custom_logo_mobile_max_width":0,"ocean_custom_logo_max_height":0,"ocean_custom_logo_tablet_max_height":0,"ocean_custom_logo_mobile_max_height":0,"ocean_header_custom_menu":"0","ocean_menu_typo_font_family":"0","ocean_menu_typo_font_subset":"","ocean_menu_typo_font_size":0,"ocean_menu_typo_font_size_tablet":0,"ocean_menu_typo_font_size_mobile":0,"ocean_menu_typo_font_size_unit":"px","ocean_menu_typo_font_weight":"","ocean_menu_typo_font_weight_tablet":"","ocean_menu_typo_font_weight_mobile":"","ocean_menu_typo_transform":"","ocean_menu_typo_transform_tablet":"","ocean_menu_typo_transform_mobile":"","ocean_menu_typo_line_height":0,"ocean_menu_typo_line_height_tablet":0,"ocean_menu_typo_line_height_mobile":0,"ocean_menu_typo_line_height_unit":"","ocean_menu_typo_spacing":0,"ocean_menu_typo_spacing_tablet":0,"ocean_menu_typo_spacing_mobile":0,"ocean_menu_typo_spacing_unit":"","ocean_menu_link_color":"","ocean_menu_link_color_hover":"","ocean_menu_link_color_active":"","ocean_menu_link_background":"","ocean_menu_link_hover_background":"","ocean_menu_link_active_background":"","ocean_menu_social_links_bg":"","ocean_menu_social_hover_links_bg":"","ocean_menu_social_links_color":"","ocean_menu_social_hover_links_color":"","ocean_disable_title":"default","ocean_disable_heading":"default","ocean_post_title":"","ocean_post_subheading":"","ocean_post_title_style":"","ocean_post_title_background_color":"","ocean_post_title_background":0,"ocean_post_title_bg_image_position":"","ocean_post_title_bg_image_attachment":"","ocean_post_title_bg_image_repeat":"","ocean_post_title_bg_image_size":"","ocean_post_title_height":0,"ocean_post_title_bg_overlay":0.5,"ocean_post_title_bg_overlay_color":"","ocean_disable_breadcrumbs":"default","ocean_breadcrumbs_color":"","ocean_breadcrumbs_separator_color":"","ocean_breadcrumbs_links_color":"","ocean_breadcrumbs_links_hover_color":"","ocean_display_footer_widgets":"default","ocean_display_footer_bottom":"default","ocean_custom_footer_template":"0","ocean_post_oembed":"","ocean_post_self_hosted_media":"","ocean_post_video_embed":"","ocean_link_format":"","ocean_link_format_target":"self","ocean_quote_format":"","ocean_quote_format_link":"post","ocean_gallery_link_images":"off","ocean_gallery_id":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[8172,8323,10617,10529],"tags":[16217,25116,16229,10727,4334,8364,25552,25535,16218,3953,6483],"class_list":["post-40752","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-hiking","category-outdoors","category-south-carolina","category-usa","tag-adventure-travel","tag-camping-near-me","tag-hiking-trails-near-me","tag-kayaking-near-me","tag-national-parks-in-north-america","tag-national-parks-near-me","tag-outdoor-activities-near-me","tag-press-trip","tag-soft-adventure","tag-sponsored","tag-us-national-parks","entry","has-media"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>11 Unique Things to Do in Congaree National Park<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Visiting Columbia SC? 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