Congaree Picnic Shelter

The Congaree Picnic Shelter is located a short distance from the Harry Hampton Visitor Center and is adjacent to the park's primary parking area. The picnic shelter is also near the park's popular Boardwalk Trail. The shelter offers picnic tables and two large barbeque grills, as well as trash and recycling cans. It is located in an upland pine forest. The Boardwalk Trail is a short walk away and takes visitors into the old-growth floodplain forest that Congaree is most notable for, as well as giving access to other trails into the park's backcountry, where visitors can see champion-sized trees and wildlife. The shelter is also close to trails that lead through the upland pine forest, where visitors can see how fire is a natural part of the ecosystem and is used to maintain and restore this fire-dependent habitat. Congaree National Park offers many miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to moderately strenuous, and its many miles of waterways can be explored in a canoe or kayak. Interpretive programs including guided hikes, canoe tours and special ranger-led programs are offered throughout the year. The park is located near many state parks and forests, and the city of Columbia is a short drive away, offering museums, city parks and shopping.