Flooding closes the boardwalk and backcountry trails at Congaree: what applies in 2026?

Direct answer

Flooding closes the boardwalk and backcountry trails several times a year

Exact conditions

Status: Not required; the stated access rule still applies
Applies to: all visitors
Place or corridor: Approximately 80% of the park lies in the Congaree River floodplain, including parts of the Boardwalk Loop and most backcountry trails
Effective dates: January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026
Release model: unpublished

Exceptions and limits

Flooding is episodic, not calendar-scheduled. Check the Cedar Creek gauge (flood stage ~8 feet) and the Congaree River gauge (flood stage ~15 feet) before visiting.

Official source

National Park Service · reviewed August 27, 2026

Congaree National Park lies within the floodplain of the Congaree River. and is subject to periodic flooding which occurs approximately ten times each year. With almost 80% of the park lying within the floodplain, these floods make the backcountry trails and even parts of the boardwalk inaccessible.

Current Conditions - Congaree National Park