Congaree National Park protects an ancient forest of champion-size trees, primeval floodplain landscapes, and an incredible diversity of plant and animal life. The park includes the largest remnant of old-growth floodplain forest in the southeastern United States and one of the tallest temperate deciduous forests in the world. It is also designated as an International Biosphere Reserve, Wilderness area, National Natural Landmark, and Globally Important Bird Area.
Sent by Park Ranger of Congaree National Park.
Congaree National Park preserves the largest tract of old growth bottomland hardwood forest left in the United States. Located in South Carolina, the 26,546-acre (107.43 km2; 41.48 sq mi) national park received that designation in 2003 as the culmination of a grassroots campaign which had started in 1969. The lush trees growing in this floodplain forest are some of the tallest in the Eastern U.S., forming one of the highest temperate deciduous forest canopies remaining in the world. TheCongaree River flows through the park. About 57 percent (15,000 acres or 61 square kilometers) of the park is designatedwilderness area. (read further)
