Congaree Swamp National Monument

Congaree Swamp National Monument was established in 2003 and currently encompasses a total area of 26,276 acres of land in Richland County, South Carolina and close to the town called Eastover, in South Carolina. The exact location of the park is about twenty miles south-east of Columbia, South Carolina. The park can be easily accessed by taking Exit 5 off I-77 and simply following the signs for an approximately 15-mile drive.

The status of this national monument has changed significantly over time. The area where the park sits was first authorized in October 1976 and after that in 1988 was designated as a wilderness. In 1983 the place was designated as a biosphere reserve, and the status of the Congaree Swamp National Monument changed into the Congaree National Park in November of 2003.

Today one of the draws to the Congaree Swamp National Monument is that the park is home to the largest intact tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the country. It features some of the largest trees and one of the highest canopies in the east and across the world. The park is also a habitat to a variety of other plant and animal species.

Besides this ecology, the park also offers other recreational activities including hiking, camping, canoeing, kayaking, guided walks, fishing, and canoe trips. Like most other national parks, you are allowed to bring your dog into the park. That said, there are some regulations that you must follow if you want to have an enjoyable time at this park. For starters, you must ensure that your tail-wagger is always well-behaved and that they are not harassing other visitors, pets or animals in the park. 

It is important to ensure that your dog is on a leash that is no longer than six feet long or that your dog is secured in order to ensure that your dog does not cause any disturbance. Additionally, you should be aware of areas that you should avoid taking your dog. For example, you should avoid most park buildings. That said, you can take your pooch into campgrounds, all trails, and the boardwalk.