Harry Hampton Visitor Center — Attraction in South Carolina

So I set out to do the River Trail(11.1 miles) and ended doing 12.2 miles because I back tracked 0.5 mile of Oakridge trail second guessing whether at some point it would divide or if I missed it at a trail junction. I went Christmas Eve to avoid crowds, the bugs that everyone talks about and I sometimes appreciate ecosystems more when all the leaves are down and I can see more topography and animals. With that being said it was a fairly uneventful hike down to the Congaree river. Trails are blazed very well, leaf clutter on lollipop loop of river trail mostly covered the beaten single track that exists. Some trails are more like roads or golf cart trails but the Oakridge and River trails were more like hiking trails that people envision. And yes..plenty of blow downs to hop over or walk around. I’m sure the Covid has taken its toll on the visitor center as well as trail maintenance. Unfortunately, I thought there would be more opportunities to view the Congaree river as it’s touted as being the lifeblood to the park, but even with the leaves off the trees, viewing platforms to see the river in all its glory were very scarce. The sandbar was just as uneventful. Aside from the dozen or so species of native birds that I both saw and heard in my hike down to the river as well as a multitude of interesting fungi growing on dead logs, it wasn’t until my return hike from the sandbar did things get a little more interesting. Saw a Eastern box turtle crossing trail, kicked up a massive buck and dough, heard and saw several great horned owls and the pinnacle of observation was a glimpse at feral pig/wild boar running away from me. I used left leg loop of the boardwalk trail on my return journey to the parking lot which was very impressive considering the terrain it’s built in. I liked the park from the stance it offers both a terrestrial and aquatic glance at coastal marshlands and swamps that most people don’t get...

This visitors center has a gift shop and it sells drinks too. I stopped in to get some water because I left mine in my car. Because my pups were with me, I didn't want to drag them back to the car when they were already excited about going on a hike. The staff is very nice, helpful and polite. I forgot I was on Federal property, and masks are required inside the visitors center. I rushed in to get a couple bottles of water, while my friend was outside with our 3 pups. The gentleman working there politely reminded me that if I were to come back I to the visitors center, I will need to put on my mask, and that I am on federal property. He said it so nicely, and I really appreciated it. I didn't need anyone yelling or making me feel bad that I forgot.😟 They have a Christmas tree up, and it's so cute, decorated with merchandise in the store. The stuffed raccoons are so cute. 🥰

See my review on the Congaree National Park for photos of my girls. They had a great time.... This park has a 2.6 Mile boardwalk that is wheelchair accessible. The boardwalk is real nice and goes through the swamp where you can see the cypress trees among various types of trees. I am so glad that my friend when with me. He pointed out some of the older pine trees, that I would have completely missed because I'm not knowledgeable when it comes to trees. We took the Sims trail, which was graveled, so that our pups will have a change to water...

Congaree National Park is a gem that should be a must visit for anyone in the Columbia area. The visitor center houses many wonderful exhibits on the amazing trees, ecosystem, and animals that live in the park. Be sure to watch the 15 minute video in the visitors center. The video was recently made and shows some beautiful aerial footage of the park. After watching the video, you'll be set to stroll around the boardwalk. Just make sure to check the mosquito meter and apply bug spray as needed. The boardwalk loop is a dog friendly and wheelchair accessible 2.4 mile loop that includes a self guided tour. If you can come out on a Saturday morning, guided tours are offered around the boardwalk (John Cely is a wonderful tour guide). Other trails within the park allow deeper exploration, and Cedar Creek can be navigated by canoe or kayak (make sure to ask a park ranger about water levels and portages). If you're quiet, you're likely to see and hear barred owls, otters, deer, and other animals during your visit. The park offers guided canoe tours, large tree hikes, and owl prowls all for free. Check their website or call the park for further information. Congaree National Park is a hidden gem waiting to...