Accessibility Lifts Out of Service at Fort Sumter
The mobility lifts at Fort Sumter are currently out of order. The parade ground (ground level) of the fort remains wheelchair accessible.
Official NPS sourceSTATE & NATION TRAVEL
South Carolina Travel.
National parks, historic sites and practical visitor updates, directly from the National Park Service.
NPS sources checked 10/3/2026, 3:12:29 PM Eastern
Travel Alerts & Closures
CHECK BEFORE DEPARTUREScam Warning: Book Ferry Tickets Through Authorized Concessioner Only
The National Park Service is aware of fraudulent websites selling invalid ferry tickets to Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park. Valid ferry tickets can only be purchased through the park's authorized concessioner at www.fortsumtertours.com. Visitors should carefully verify the website address before purchasing tickets. Tickets purchased through unauthorized websites are not valid and will not be honored.
Official NPS sourcePatriots Point Ferries Accessibility Information
Ferries to Fort Sumter from Patriots Point are not always accessible for individuals who use mobility assistance devices or have trouble navigating stairs. The Fort Sumter Visitor Center departure location is fully accessible or visitors can call Fort Sumter Tours (843-722-2628) for current Patriots Point accessibility conditions.
Official NPS sourceFort Moultrie Fishing Dock Closure
The Fort Moultrie Fishing Dock is currently under construction and closed to the public.
Official NPS sourcePark Wide Caution
Visitors should exercise caution when hiking areas of the park that have opened since Hurricane Helene. Hazards on trails and in forested areas such as hanging tree limbs, debris on the ground, and washed-out sections of trails and bridges are possible.
Official NPS sourcePhone Lines Down
Our phone lines are being upgraded and are currently down. If you need to contact us please email: NISI_Information@nps.gov Or you may call Cowpens National Battlefield at: 864 461-2828
Official NPS sourceTrail update 7/25/26
Most trails are open and ready for the public. Those that remain closed are the Charleston Road/ Goudey Trail past the Cherokee Path and the portion of Cherokee Path between the stockade fort and the Charleston Road.
Official NPS sourceBackcountry Trail Conditions
GPS is necessary on backcountry trails: Oakridge, Boggy Gut (formerly River), and Kingsnake. These trails may be difficult to follow.
Official NPS sourcePark Wide Caution
Visitors should exercise caution when hiking areas of the park. Hazards on trails and in forested areas such as hanging tree limbs, debris on the ground, and washed-out sections of trails and bridges are possible.
Official NPS sourceHazardous Conditions on Trails
Visitors should exercise caution when hiking areas of the park that have opened since Hurricane Helene. Hazards on trails and in forested areas such as hanging tree limbs, debris on the ground, and washed-out sections of trails and bridges are possible.
Official NPS sourceAmerica the Beautiful Passes Temporary Unavailable
At this time all sales of America the Beautiful Passes are temporary unavailable. Please check https://store.usgs.gov/recreational-passes for locations. We will advise when passes are available for sale. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Official NPS sourcePlanning Ahead for Transportation
If being dropped off at the park, please ensure you will have a return ride. Taxis and rideshares do not often come out to Congaree, and the bus may be unavailable. Please plan ahead.
Official NPS sourceOfficial conditions for each destination
Latest NPS News
Browse the archiveCongaree National Park Invites Public to Commemorate its 50th Anniversary
On Oct. 17 and 18, Congaree National Park will celebrate its 50th anniversary, hosting a series of free events including a commemorative ceremony, interpretive talks, guided hikes, special activities and talks by guest speakers
Official NPS sourceNinety Six National Historic Site Announces Installation of New Interpretive Wayside in Partnership with Friends Group
Ninety Six National Historic Site installed a new interpretive wayside exhibit for visitors to experience the Star Fort as it may have appeared during the siege of 1781. Through this outdoor interpretive display, visitors can observe an artistic rendering of the Star Fort, etched in glass and positioned along the Battlefield Trail. The glass panel is set in front of the preserved Star Fort earthworks, allowing visitors to see the historic fort image superimposed on the modern landscape.
Official NPS sourceReconstruction Era National Historic Network Welcomes Three New Sites
In July 2026, the National Park Service announces the addition of three new sites to the Reconstruction Era National Historic Network.
Official NPS sourceNinety Six National Historic Site Announces Reopening of Museum Featuring New Exhibits
Ninety Six National Historic Site announces the official museum reopening featuring new exhibits that highlight the park's natural, cultural and historical significance.
Official NPS sourceFort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park to Commemorate the 250th Anniversary of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island
Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park to Commemorate the 250th Anniversary of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island
Official NPS sourceFort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park to Commemorate First Shot of the Civil War
Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park to Commemorate First Shot of the Civil War.
Official NPS sourceWildland Fire Crews Conducting Prescribed Burns
Kings Mountain National Military Park plans to conduct a series of prescribed burns within the park as conditions allow, beginning this week and continuing through April 30.
Official NPS sourceTwo Collegiate Programs Join the Reconstruction Era National Historic Network
The National Park Service announces the inclusion of two institutes of higher learning to the Reconstruction Era National Historic Network. This national network connects sites across the country who provide education, interpretation and research related to the period of Reconstruction. The Reconstruction era, lasting from 1861 to 1900, includes stories of freedom, education and self-determination.
Official NPS sourceFour Community Sites Listed on the Reconstruction Era National Historic Network
In September 2025, the National Park Service announces the addition of four new sites to the Reconstruction Era National Historic Network.
Official NPS sourceReconstruction Era National Historic Network Announces the Inclusion of Seven New Sites
On June 5, 2025, the National Park Service announces the addition of seven new sites to the Reconstruction Era National Historic Network.
Official NPS sourceFighting for Independence: Carolina Day Commemoration at Fort Moultrie
Fighting for Independence: Carolina Day Commemoration at Fort Moultrie
Official NPS sourceCongaree National Park Conducting Prescribed Burns
Congaree National Park is planning to conduct prescribed burns in multiple units April 14-16, 2025, weather and conditions permitting. The park is planning to burn approximately 900 acres to reduce ground fuels and assist with habitat restoration.
Official NPS sourceA National Salute: Fort Moultrie at the Close of the Civil War
Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park will hold a special weekend event on Saturday and Sunday, April 12 and 13, to commemorate the ending of the American Civil War.
Official NPS sourceCongaree National Park Announces Details for 2025 Firefly Viewing Event
Congaree National Park today announced the dates for the 2025 Synchronized Firefly Viewing Event and the lottery for vehicle passes for this year's event.
Official NPS sourceFort Moultrie Dock Closing
The dock at Fort Moultrie is temporarily closing for a rehabilitation project.
Official NPS sourceFort Moultrie to Host “A Strike for Freedom” Event
Fort Moultrie to Host “A Strike for Freedom” Event
Official NPS sourceWork On Boardwalk Replacement to Begin Next Week
Beginning on Monday, January 6, contractors will begin work on the removal and replacement of boardwalk sections B, D, and F. During this project, sections of the boardwalk trail will be closed and detours to access park trails will be in place.
Official NPS sourceWorld War II Living History at Fort Moultrie
World War II Living History at Fort Moultrie
Official NPS sourceUpcoming NPS Events
NEXT 90 DAYSFirst Saturday Birdwalk
Are you interested in birds and do you enjoy being in nature? Join a ranger and a volunteer for our First Saturday Birdwalk at Ninety Six National Historic Site. Meet at the Star Fort Pond parking lot off Kinard Road. We will walk 1.25 miles at a slow pace while looking and listening for birds. All levels of birders are welcome from novice to expert. Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, and layered clothes as temperatures will vary during the morning. Also bring binoculars if you have them. We will have a few pairs of binoculars for checkout with a government issued photo ID. The walk is free and there is no admittance to the park. There is a portalet style restroom available in the parking lot.
Official NPS sourceFirst Saturday Birdwalk
Are you interested in birds and do you enjoy being in nature? Join a park ranger and/or a volunteer for our First Saturday morning birdwalks! The walks start at the Star Fort Pond at 8am and end around 11am. We do a slow-paced 1.5 mile walk around the pond while we listen and look for birds and other wildlife. All levels of birders are welcome, from beginner to expert. We have a limited number of binoculars available to borrow with a photo ID. Check the park Facebook page for updates/cancellations due to inclement weather. - Meet at the Star Fort Pond parking lot at 8am - Wear comfortable footwear for a slow paced 1.5 mile walk - Bring water and wear shoes that can get wet/muddy - Wear layers as temperatures will change throughout the morning - Free of charge and all are welcome, from beginners to experts - Limited number of binoculars available to borrow with an ID Directions to Star Fort Pond: Take Highway 246 south from the Town of Ninety Six. Go about 2 miles and turn to the right onto State Road 27 or Kinard Road. Go about 1/4 of a mile and the lake will be on the right.
Official NPS sourceBattle Anniversary
On this day the park will commemorate the anniversary of the battle. This event will feature a wreath laying ceremony and remarks from the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), followed by the conclusion of the Overmountain Victory Trail Association's (OVTA) annual commemorative march and a special program on the battle. Battle Anniversary
Official NPS sourceThe Green Heart of South Carolina: Congaree National Park at 50
The establishment on October 18, 1976, of Congaree Swamp National Monument, began a 50-year legacy of protecting one of the most unique and diverse natural landscapes in the nation for present and future generations to experience and enjoy the Green Heart of South Carolina. From the arrival of the first staff in the early 1980s to today, the park has grown over the past half-century, both in size and visibility. Join a park ranger for an interpretive talk to highlight some of the key moments of park history over the past 50 years. From the opening of the first visitor center in 1985 and the designation of Wilderness in 1988, to the opening of the Harry Hampton Visitor Center in 2001 and the park’s redesignation in 2003, learn about how the park has grown over the years!
Official NPS source50th Anniversary Owl Prowl
Since the 1980s, one of the most popular programs offered at Congaree are our Owl Prowls. Owls are viewed by many cultures as creatures of mystery, as they are often heard but seldom seen. One of the park’s iconic wildlife residents and featured on the park’s logo, Barred Owls are the most commonly seen of the 3 owl species that can be found in the park. Join us for a guided evening hike to look for and learn about these nocturnal natives and their unique adaptations that allow them to hunt and be active after dark. Things to Know - Registration is required for this program. Registration for this guided hike will be available beginning two weeks prior to the program date. - This hike will last approximately 1 1/2 hours and will take place primarily on the Boardwalk Trail - Participants should wear or bring clothing appropriate for the day’s forecasted conditions and temperature - Sturdy, closed-toe footwear, such as hiking boots are recommended - Pets are not permitted on this program. Service animals are welcome. - Participants should bring water - Participants may bring a flashlight with a red-mode for use after dark; Red-light flashlights will be available to borrow for the program
Official NPS source50th Anniversary Big Tree Hike with John Cely
On the occasion of the 50 th Anniversary of the park’s establishment, join John Cely, park volunteer and one of the original advocates for the preservation of this landscape, on a guided hike to see some of the park’s champion-sized trees and experience why he and others were so determined to see this place protected. Things to Know - Registration is required for this program. Registration for this guided hike will be available beginning two weeks prior to the program date. - This hike will start and end at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center - This hike will last approximately 3 hours - This hike will go off trail and cover up to 5 miles total and will take place in wilderness. - Participants should wear clothing appropriate for the day's forecasted conditions and temperature - Sturdy, closed-toed footwear, such as hiking boots, is highly recommended - Participants should bring water
Official NPS sourceHowser House Open House
Join us for a chance to tour one of the most unique structures in Kings Mountain National Military Park. The Howser House was built in 1803 and was constructed out of cut stone making it unique in this area for the period. Visitors will be able to take self-guided tours of the house and family cemetery, attend ranger programs and learn about rural farm life in the piedmont during the early 19 th century, and view and participate in period craft demonstrations. ***Please note that the Howser House is not located at the park visitor center. The Howser House is located at 536 Rock House Road, Blacksburg SC 29702—Cherokee County.
Official NPS sourceNational Parks & Federal Sites
8 DESTINATIONSNational Historic Trail
Overmountain Victory
Stretching 330-miles through four states (Virginia, Tennessee, North and South Carolina) the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail traces the route used by Patriot militia during the pivotal Kings Mountain campaign of 1780. Follow their campaign by utilizing a Commemorative Motor Route along existing state highways marked with the distinctive trail logo, or 80+ miles of walkable trail.
North Carolina · South Carolina · Tennessee · VirginiaNational Historic Site
Charles Pinckney
Charles Pinckney was a principal author and signer of the United States Constitution and went on to be a political leader in South Carolina for over 40 years. The park preserves Snee Farm, one of his plantation properties, where visitors can learn about the politician's influences on Charleston, the African people he enslaved, plantation operations, and the legacy of Pinckney's life.
South CarolinaNational Park
Congaree
Astonishing biodiversity exists in Congaree National Park, the largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States. Waters from the Congaree and Wateree Rivers sweep through the floodplain, carrying nutrients and sediments that nourish and rejuvenate this ecosystem and support the growth of national and state champion trees.
South CarolinaNational Battlefield
Cowpens
A pasturing area at the time of the battle, this Revolutionary War site commemorates the place where Daniel Morgan and his army turned the flanks of Banastre Tarleton's British army. This classic military tactic, known as a double envelopment, secured a patriot victory.
South CarolinaNational Historical Park
Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie
Two forts stand at the entrance of Charleston Harbor. Patriots inside a palmetto log fort, later named Fort Moultrie, defeated the Royal Navy in 1776. As Charleston blazed a path towards secession to preserve slavery, construction on a new fort, Fort Sumter, proceeded. The Confederacy fired on the US garrison of Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861 opening the Civil War, which redefined American freedom.
South CarolinaNational Military Park
Kings Mountain
Thomas Jefferson called it "The turn of the tide of success." The battle of Kings Mountain, fought October 7th, 1780, was an important American victory during the Revolutionary War. The battle was the first major patriot victory to occur after the British invasion of Charleston, SC in May 1780. The park preserves the site of this important battle.
South CarolinaNational Historic Site
Ninety Six
Settlers struggled against the harsh backcountry to survive. Cherokee Indians hunted and fought to keep their land. Two towns and a trading post were formed then abandoned to the elements. And two Revolutionary War battles claimed over 100 lives. Come discover the 18th century history of South Carolina.
South CarolinaNational Historical Park
Reconstruction Era
The Reconstruction era,1861-1900 the historic period in which the United States grappled with the question of how to integrate millions of newly freed African Americans into social, political, economic, and labor systems, was a time of significant transformation. The people, places, and events in Beaufort County, South Carolina, reflect on the most important issues of this tumultuous time period.
South CarolinaDestination directory sourced from NPS state listings, October 3, 2026. Official NPS directory
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