Every Friday in August, we're sharing a road trip with you in our new series: Seeing South Carolina. We're kicking things off with an outdoor adventure-themed trip to Congaree National Park. With trails and wildlife, this park is a great destination for experienced adventurers + novice nature seekers alike.

Before you start packing your bags, here’s everything you need to know about the area + our insider recommendations.

Drive time: ~2 hours
Est. population: ~2,000 people in Hopkins, SC
Avg. high in August: 90º

🥾Things to do

Cedar Creek Canoe Trail
Starting at Bannister’s Bridge, this scenic trail winds 15 miles through an ancient old-growth forest with some of the tallest trees in eastern North America. If you don’t have your own equipment, you’ll need to rent a kayak or canoe for the journey.

Boardwalk Loop Trail
This trail is perfect for beginners — hike along an elevated boardwalk that begins on a bluff at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center. There are benches along the way if you need a breather and this trail is wheelchair + stroller accessible.

Wildlife viewing
Explore Kingsnake Trail for birdwatching and keep an eye out for river otters on the Congaree River. Keep the park on your bucket list for spring — every year there are special synchronous firefly events where you can watch countless fireflies flashing in unison.

Paddle through the forest. | Photo by @lynnrococo

🍽️ Fuel up after hiking

Big T’s BBQ
Stop by after your hike for a plate piled high with Southern barbecue and all the fixin’s. This comfort food eatery is just a 10-minute drive from the park.

Publick House
Recharge at this eatery with a chicken salad sammie on a sesame seed bun with lettuce and tomato + an order of steamed veggies on the side. Wash it down with some beer or wine.

This rental is 15 minutes from the park. | Photo via VRBO

🏕️ Cozy campsites + cabins

Longleaf Campground
This campground is adjacent to the park entrance road. It has 10 individual and four group camping sites, each with a fire ring + picnic table.

Bluff Campground
Located one mile from Longleaf on the Bluff Trail, this spot has six individual campsites. Heads up: There’s no direct vehicle access to this campground.

Cedar Creek Cottage VRBO
This five-star vacation rental close to Congaree National Park has openings throughout the summer. It features a fire pit, WiFi, and two large porches.