Longleaf + Bluff Campgrounds

Camping opportunities are rather limited in Congaree National Park, with only two campgrounds and no vehicle sites. For those that enjoy a quiet, primitive camping experience, however, this is perfect. Campers at either Longleaf or Bluff Campground will enjoy grassy or pine-strawed sites with ample shade, fire rings, and no frills.

Campfires are allowed but must be made with dead and downed wood. No cutting is allowed, and firewood may not be brought into the park unless from a proven local source or a USDA-approved supplier. This is to protect the park's old-growth trees from invasive pests that have severely damaged other forests.

All sites must be reserved online at Recreation.gov and no walk-ins are accepeted, but you can use the visitor center Wi-Fi to register online if anything is available the day of your arrival.

Longleaf

This is the more popular of the two because it has easier access and a few more amenities. It has a parking lot on the park entrance road, and all sites are just a short walk from there. The Bluff Trail also has a trailhead here and connects with Bluff Campground in less than a mile.

Longleaf has pit toilets at the parking lot but no water available. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring with a grate. There are 10 sites for up to eight people or three tents each as well as four sites for groups of up to 24. Regular sites are $10 per night and group sites are $20.

Bluff

Located about a mile into Bluff Trail, this primitive campground is hike-in only. No water or toilets are available. Eight tent sites are spread around the perimeter of a small grassy field bordered by pine forest. Each has a picnic table and fire ring with grate. Sites are $5 per night.

Note: Come prepared for weather and plan for the seasons. If you'll be camping during the warmer months, expect serious mosquitos and other bugs. Cooler months are mostly bug-free, but nighttime temperatures can dip below freezing in winter.