|
Contact: Lauren Gurniewicz, 803-647-3969
Congaree National Park Superintendent Tracy Swartout has announced a change to the hours at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center, effective October 1.The Visitor Center will be open 9:00 am-5:00 pm, 7 days per week from October 1-March 31 each year.As the spring turns to summer, the Visitor Center will be open 9:00 am-5:00 pm, Sunday-Thursday and 9:00 am-7:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from April 1-September 30.The facility will be closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.Visitors are encouraged to explore Congaree at any time, as the park's grounds and trails remain open 24 hours, 7 days per week. The Harry Hampton Visitor Center is staffed by park rangers, who assist visitors in planning their visit, provide information, and conduct guided programs.Natural and cultural history exhibits, a park film, and Eastern National bookstore are also available."By modifying our Visitor Center hours slightly, we can focus our staffing on periods of heavier visitor use.This should give visitors a better park experience," said Superintendent Swartout. Established in 1976, Congaree National Park preserves the largest intact tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. An International Biosphere Reserve and federally-designated Wilderness Area, the park serves as a classroom and laboratory for visitors, students, and scientists from around the world. Park visitors can explore 26 miles of hiking trails, 2.5 miles of boardwalk, a wilderness canoe trail, campground, and visitor center, each providing unique experiences. For additional information about the Harry Hampton Visitor Center, call 803-776-4396. |
Last updated: April 14, 2015