Explore the Magic of Congaree National Park

When most people think of South Carolina, their minds go to beaches and barbecue—not ancient forests and paddle-through swamplands. But Congaree National Park is one of the East Coast’s most underrated treasures. This lush, otherworldly escape is home to the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern U.S.—and it’s just begging to be explored.

Little-Known Facts About Congaree National Park

• It's Not a Swamp! – Despite the boardwalks and waterways, Congaree is a floodplain forest, not a swamp. It floods seasonally, creating a rich, dynamic ecosystem.

• Know as the Redwoods of the East – The park is home to some of the tallest trees in East and boasts some record-breaking giants—loblolly pines over 160 feet tall!

• Firefly Light Show – Every spring, thousands of synchronous fireflies put on a spectacular performance you won’t believe until you see it.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

Paddle Cedar Creek
Rent a canoe or kayak and glide through quiet, winding waterways beneath towering trees and over gentle blackwater currents. Early morning paddles are especially peaceful.

Hike the Oakridge & Kingsnake Trails
Escape the popular boardwalk and head deep into the backcountry. These trails are perfect for birdwatchers and solitude seekers looking for a true wilderness experience.

Camp Under the Stars
Congaree is an International Dark Sky Park! Primitive island or riverside camping gives you an unbeatable view of the night sky—fireflies in spring, constellations all year.

Wildflower Walks in Spring
Come March and April, look for blooming pawpaws, spider lilies, and swamp irises in the understory.

RV Camping Nearby

While you can’t bring your RV into Congaree, there are great RV-friendly spots nearby:

• Sesquicentennial State Park – Only 30 minutes from Congaree, with shaded RV sites, trails, and a lake.

• Columbia/Camden RV Park – Easy access to I-20 and downtown Columbia.

• Barnyard RV Park – A clean, quiet, full-service park with friendly hosts and great amenities.

Sleep Like You’re in a Treehouse with AB Lifestyles

After a day spent paddling under cypress knees and hiking through lush wilderness, nothing beats sinking into soft, breathable bedding that fits your RV bed just right. AB Lifestyles' USA-made bedding makes rest feel luxurious—no matter where you’ve parked for the night.

Plan Your Congaree Escape Today

If you’ve never heard of Congaree, you’re not alone—but once you visit, you’ll never forget it. This park is quiet, wild, and wonderfully unexpected. And with AB Lifestyles along for the ride, you’ll always have a cozy spot to come back to.