Where is Justin this week?
Justin is doing some kayak fishing on the Cedar Creek in the Congaree National Park.
Justin Ballew, ©2025, Clemson Extension
Congaree is South Carolina’s only National Park. Located just southeast of Columbia, the park is a day trip from just about anywhere in the state. The park is over 26,000 acres and is the largest remaining tract of old-growth bottomland forest in the US.
Wildlife and Trails in the Park
There are nearly 50 miles of trails that are great for viewing wildlife, such as birds, snakes, turtles, deer, and hogs, not to mention some of the largest and oldest trees in the eastern US.
Congaree is a great place for viewing wildlife, like this young barred owl sitting on a cypress knee. Turn your volume up to hear a guide talk about what it’s doing.
Synchronous Fireflies
Congaree is home to a population of synchronous fireflies (as well as many other species) that are most active in mid to late May. During this time, tickets to view the fireflies during the park’s extended hours are available through a lottery system. It’s definitely worth seeing.
Kayak Fishing on Cedar Creek
One of my favorite things to do in the park is fish in Cedar Creek. The creek is only accessible by canoe or kayak, but the current is slow and easy to paddle against. There are a variety of panfish, bass, pike, gar, bowfin, and more, and it’s some of the most scenic fishing I’ve ever done.
Don’t worry, there are bigger ones.
Justin Ballew, ©2025, Clemson Extension
Prepare for the Mosquitoes
The mosquitoes get tough in the warmer months, so grab a can of bug spray on your way to explore what the Congaree National Park has to offer.
Even a bad day of fishing here is still a pretty good day.
Justin Ballew, ©2025, Clemson Extension
