Description:
The monument rests on a floodplain of the Congaree River and is not a true swamp. This remnant preserves, in a wilderness state, the largest intact tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. The monument was authorized as a unit of the National Park Service on October 18, 1976.

Three features give national significance: some of the tallest trees in the East with one of the highest canopies in the world, broad biodiversity, and old-growth forest. The monument is recognized as an International Biosphere Reserve, National Natural Landmark, Wilderness Area, and "Globally Important Bird Area."

Directions:
Plane - Columbia Airport - 30 miles away.

Car - Take exit #5 off I-77. Follow signs to entrance of monument (approximately 15 miles)

Public Transportation - Taxi, approximately 20 miles from Columbia.

RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

• Boating
• Camping
• Educational
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Museums/Visitor-Center
• Picnic
• Water Sports
• Wilderness Area
• Wildlife Viewing