The Mysterious Flooded Forest

As I wandered through the Congaree Swamp National Monument, I couldn't help but feel fascinated by the submerged trees standing tall in the swampy water. The park features a unique ecosystem unlike any other I have experienced before, with diverse flora and fauna ranging from bald cypress and water tupelo to deer and river otters. The swamp was formed by frequent flooding and remains filled with water for much of the year. The park also has an interesting history, having been used as a hiding place for escaped slaves during the Civil War. Despite its importance as a natural and historical landmark, the Congaree Swamp National Monument is vastly underrated and under-appreciated.