Bluff Hike In Camping

Summary

Congaree National Park is a tent-only hike-in campground located at the intersection of the Bluff and Firefly Trails, surrounded by a mixed pine/hardwood upland forest. Campers are able to explore 27 miles of hiking trails and canoe/kayak from two nearby landings. There are no restroom facilities at the campground, but potable water is available at filling stations 24/7 at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as city parks, shopping, and museums in nearby Columbia.

Overview

This is a hike-in campground that is located at the intersection of the Bluff and Firefly Trails, approximately 1 mile from both the Harry Hampton Visitor Center and the Longleaf Campground. It is surrounded by a mixed pine/hardwood upland forest. This campground is located at a higher elevation than the floodplain and is not subject to the flooding events that occur regularly in other parts of the park.

Recreation

Campers with reservations at the Bluff Campground have easy access to the park’s 27 miles of hiking trails. Campers can reach the Harry Hampton Visitor Center, boardwalk, and other hiking trails via either the Firefly or Bluff Trails. At the visitor center you find information on other trails to plan your trip into the old-growth forest of Congaree National Park. Those who would like to explore and experience Congaree via canoe or kayak can launch from one of the park's two landings, located between 5-10 minutes by car from the visitor center.

Facilities

• Camping at this campground is tent only.

• This is a hike-in only campground and cannot be accessed by vehicle. Campers must park at either the Longleaf Campground or Harry Hampton Visitor Center. 

• All sites have a fire ring and picnic table.

• This campground does not provide electric/water/sewer hook-ups.

• This campground does not have restroom facilities. Restrooms can be found at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center, and two vault toilets are located at the Longleaf Campground. 

• Running water is not available at this campground. Potable water is available at filling stations 24/7 at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center.

• This campground does not have trash or recycling receptacles. All campers must remember to pack out all trash and/or waste when leaving and can dispose of it at either the Harry Hampton Visitor Center or Longleaf Campground.

Natural Features

Campsites are located on the edges of an open, grassy clearing in the mixed pine/hardwood forest, and is adjacent to an area currently undergoing restoration to a longleaf pine grassland/savanna. Depending on the time of day, sites may be the sun during the morning or afternoon/evening hours. This location offers opportunities to observe wildlife such as birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.

contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (803) 647-3970.

Nearby Attractions

Congaree National Park is located near many attractions including state parks, forests and parks. The city of Columbia is a short drive from the park and offers access to many attractions including museums, city parks and shopping.