South Cedar Creek Canoe Landing

South Cedar Creek Canoe Landing is one of Congaree's two vehicle-accessible launches for the Cedar Creek Canoe Trail. If you have one car, make this an out-and-back: the park points paddlers either upstream or downstream, then back to the same put-in. Bring your own canoe or kayak; the park doesn't rent boats, and guided trips meet here.

The marked canoe trail runs about 15 miles from Bannister Bridge through Congaree Wilderness toward the Congaree River. A longer option from Bannister Bridge to this landing covers about 8 miles and takes around six hours, so it needs a vehicle shuttle. You don't need to commit to that to get a worthwhile paddle here.

From the creek, big bald cypress shade the water and close in over parts of the channel. Downstream, Dawson's Lake is a popular fishing spot and a place to watch for river otter and other wildlife. Across the paddle route, look for tupelo, large loblolly pines, wading birds, turtles, deer, and the occasional alligator; animals are a possibility, not a promise. In warmer months, turtles and snakes may sun themselves on fallen logs.

There's a large gravel lot with two accessible spaces beside vault toilets. From the lot, the access slopes downhill over uneven ground, and eight steps lead to the usual launch point. The parking spaces are accessible, but the usual way to the water isn't step-free.

Water levels can vary by as much as 10 feet; 8 feet is flood stage, and the park advises against paddling above it, especially for inexperienced paddlers. Downed trees and log jams are common and can mean portages. Check the creek gauge and current conditions before setting out, and carry a map and compass because changing water can hide trail markers.