Free Topo Maps of Congaree Swamp National Monument

Download free topo maps of Congaree Swamp National Monument. Use the adjoining 7.5 minute quadrangle legend to locate the South Carolina maps you need.

Adjoining 7.5' Quadrangle Legend

Congaree Swamp National Monument

Congaree Swamp National Monument was established to protect and conserve a primeval forest that has also been designated as an International Biosphere Reserve, an area whose biodiversity of plant and animal life was recognized for its need to be protected for future generations. When Longfellow wrote the poem Evangeline, he described the Acadian forest in a far distant place from Congaree; yet his description of the "forest primeval" is a fitting description for the primordial environment of this magical, enchanting and ancient floodplain forest. Located within 25 miles of Columbia, South Carolina, there is a Blue Trail from the urban capital, leading paddlers down the 50 mile water trail to the National Monument. Along the way, there are cultural and historical sites, with opportunities to explore the capital city, prehistoric Native American sites and river trails. At Congaree National Monument, floodplain habitats are available, 20 miles of hiking trails, backpacking, fishing, birding, plants and wildlife whose diversity is astounding. Canoeing, kayaking and camping are also available. There are numerous Ranger-led activities and interpretive talks delineating the history and culture of the park, beginning with the prehistoric area to the stories of early 18th century settlers who attempted to tame the floodplain. The fertile soil never succumbed to the effects of planting; and protested the efforts of farmers through the long years with floodwaters washing all away every four or five years. The 19th century logging lasted all of ten years prior to the industry realizing that the trees were resistant to human needs, "refusing to dry out" sufficiently enough to float down the river. Even the primordial environment, the moss covered trees, feeding on the humidity, held themselves at odds with loggers. Many others passed through, using the forest for cover in war, from British to Civil War troops. The Spaniards were the first here, eventually decimating the Congaree Indians with the introduction of smallpox; fortunately none had left a destructive path of modernization or overt damage during their passage. By the 20th century Harry Hampton, a conservationist and writer began publishing his finds, urging for the protection of this virtually unspoiled region. Through his efforts with those who worked with him, the Congaree became a protected area. Today the Harry Hampton Visitor Center is the starting point for the park trails, with information regarding interpretive activities, while the center offers exhibits and more for those who wish to learn about the floodplain. The boardwalk extends for over two and a half miles; it is approximately eight feet above the floodplain, which still floods every few years.