What is the history of Congaree National Park?
Prehistoric peoples hunted the floodplain of the Congaree river and fished its waters. Congaree Indians subsisted on the vegetation and abundant game. Spanish explorer Hernando DeSoto traversed the area in the late 1500’s followed by fellow Spaniard Juan Pardo in the 1600’s.
What is Congaree National Park famous for?
Known for its giant hardwoods and towering pines, Congaree’s floodplain forest includes one of the highest canopies in the world. The park provides a sanctuary for plants and animals, a research site for scientists, and a tranquil wilderness setting for walking and relaxing in.
What are some fun facts about Congaree National Park?
Congaree Fast Facts
- Congaree National Park covers a total area of 22,200 acres.
- The number of people visiting Congaree in 2019 was 159,445 (All Years)
- Congaree was made a national park on November 10, 2003.
- The lowest elevation found in Congaree is 80 feet at Congaree River.
Are there alligators in Congaree National Park?
Yes, alligators can be found in Congaree National Park, but they are not common. The area isn’t great habitat for them as the area isn’t marshy or swamping unless the river is flooding. When alligators are seen, they are usually found at the southern end of the park along the river.
Who founded Congaree National Park?
Park history Owned by Francis Beidler and Benjamin F. Ferguson of Chicago, the company operated until 1914; subsequently, Beidler and his heirs retained ownership of the area. In the 1950s Harry R. E. Hampton was a member of the Cedar Creek Hunt Club and co-editor of The State.
What does the word Congaree mean?
[ kong-guh-ree ] SHOW IPA. / ˈkɒŋ gəˌri / PHONETIC RESPELLING. noun. a river flowing E in central South Carolina, joining with the Wateree River to form the Santee River.
How old is Congaree National Park?
Congaree National Park, natural area in central South Carolina, U.S., about 20 miles (30 km) southeast of Columbia. Authorized in 1976 as Congaree Swamp National Monument, it was designated a national park and renamed in 2003; it became an international biosphere reserve in 1981.
What are some animals in Congaree National Park?
Large animals possibly seen in the park include bobcats, deer, feral pigs, feral dogs, coyotes, armadillos, turkeys, and otters. Its waters contain interesting creatures like amphibians, turtles, snakes, and many types of fish, including bowfin, alligator gar, and catfish.
Is Congaree the worst National Park?
Travel ranks Congaree National Park among the top five worst national parks in America.
Are there snakes in Congaree National Park?
Snakes are a common sight along park trails, especially during the summer months. Three snakes; the Water Moccasin (or Cottonmouth), Copperhead, and Canebrake Rattlesnake, are venomous. While potentially dangerous, these snakes generally try to avoid contact with humans, and will only strike if provoked.
Who owns Congaree National Park?
federal
As of December 31, 2011, approximately 26,021 acres (40.7 sq mi; 105.3 km2) of the park are in federal ownership.