News Release

Congaree National Park Planning to Conduct Spring Prescribed Burns

Wildland firefighters use drip torches during firing operations on a prescribed burn at Congaree National Park.

NPS Photo

News Release Date: March 20, 2024

Contact: Jon Manchester, 803-647-3967

HOPKINS, SC –Park rangers from Congaree National Park, along with staff from other NPS and partner agencies, are planning to conduct prescribed burns in in one or more of the park’s upland burn units between March 20 and April 30, 2024, weather and conditions permitting. The total acreage burned is not planned to exceed 1,000 acres. The intended goal of these operations is ground fuel reduction and habitat restoration, in accordance with the park’s fire management plan.

In order to achieve fire management plan objectives and ensure the safety of park visitors during prescribed fire operations, certain trails and park facilities, such as the Longleaf and Bluff Campgrounds, may be closed with short notice. All trail closures will be clearly marked with signs, and all trail or facility closures will be posted on the park’s website and social media pages. Anyone with reservation for a campsite that is cancelled due to a campground closure will be issued refund for the period of their stay affected by the closure.

Additionally, smoke may be seen for several miles and may drift over nearby roads and trails, reducing visibility. Drivers should use caution as fire crews and equipment may be operating along the park entrance road and other nearby roads.

Specific information on when and where prescribed fire operations will be conducted will be released at a later time. Further details and updates can be found on the park’s website, www.nps.gov/cong, and on the park’s social media channels.