Thursday, December 8, 2011

Congaree National Recreation area

By Steven Jorgensenn


Guests to Congaree National Recreation area in South Carolina might find the largest remaining old-growth bottom land natural environment in The United States. A lot of the park is designated wilderness area, conserving a considerable concentration of champion trees. The flooding of the Congaree River several occasions a year has created an surrounding favorable towards the growth of several species of giant trees which includes loblolly pines, bald cypress, laurel oaks, red maples, and sweet gums.

The Congaree River and Cedar Creek run by way of the park. There are also a number of modest oxbow lakes that had been once a part of the river's primary channel. This flood plain is home to a number of wild birds along with other wildlife such as deer, raccoons, opossums, turtles, snakes, and river otters. Fishing is well-known in the park and it is allowed in all areas except Weston Lake. A valid South Carolina fishing permit is essential and no motorized boats are allowed. Visitors may possibly also take pleasure in canoeing or kayaking in Congaree National Park. The park provides free guided canoe excursions on Cedar Creek. Reservations for these trips are taken quarterly. Visitors might also bring their own canoes or kayaks. The Visitor Center has details on present water levels. Paddlers may possibly also canoe the Congaree River, but there is no vehicle access within the park.

The Harry Hampton Visitor Center, open everyday from 9am-5pm, has displays about the park. A fantastic method to take pleasure in the park's old-growth forest is always to take a hike. The 2.4 mile elevated boardwalk loop trail is one of the most common with visitors. There are 20 miles of other paths within the park, ranging in length from .7 to 11 miles. The trails offer possibilities to complete bird watching and observe a few of the park's other wildlife. One of the a lot more common trails in the park is the Weston Lake Loop Trail, which follows along Cedar Creek and loops round the lake. The River Trail, which leads to the Congaree River, is also popular.

Hikers really should examine with the Visitor Center for current trail conditions. Primitive camping is allowed all year, but you will find no facilities offered. Park rangers conduct a number of programs throughout the year. Visitors might appreciate guided hikes, canoe trips, campfire talks, and bird counts.

Congaree National Park was established in 2003 and it is one of the country's most up-to-date National Parks. It's situated 20 miles southeast of Columbia off SC Highway 48. The park is open all year long, and there is no entrance charge.




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