Timed entry and tours at Congaree National Park
Congaree National Park uses booked entry or tours for 2 things. Turning up without one can mean being turned away, even with lodging booked inside the park.
What needs booking
| Name | Booking | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Congaree National Park Firefly Viewing Lottery | Timed entry / ticket | — |
| Congaree National Park Ranger-Guided Canoe Tours | Timed entry / ticket | — |
When bookings open
Timed entry and tour tickets, when they exist, open on a schedule the park sets each season. Confirm the current window on the official booking page rather than assuming a generic lead time.
Check the current requirement
Congaree National Park does not sell a park-wide entry reservation on Recreation.gov, but the booking rules for the permits and tickets it does sell change every season. Confirm on the official site close to your travel date.
Official Congaree National Park site — hours, closures, and fees.
Common questions
Does Congaree National Park need a timed entry reservation?
No timed entry is listed for Congaree National Park, but tours here do require booking.
Do Congaree National Park tours need booking?
Yes — Congaree National Park Firefly Viewing Lottery and Congaree National Park Ranger-Guided Canoe Tours. These sell out well ahead in peak season.