Hopkins, SC
Congaree National Park Firefly Viewing Lottery
Congaree National Park is home to a number of different species of fireflies, but it is the synchronized fireflies that lure thousands of people to the park each spring. These fireflies are one of only a few species around the world that synchronize their flash patterns in a majestic ritual that heralds the coming of summer. This late springtime display is part of their annual mating ritual that takes place for approximately two weeks, typically beginning around mid-May, along the edge of the Congaree floodplain.
During the evenings of May 20, 21, 22 & 27, 28, 29, entry to the park will be limited to only 120 vehicles displaying a valid event pass. Event passes will be distributed via lottery in order to provide an equitable opportunity for all interested visitors in this limited, yet high-demand event. During the event, the park entrance gates will close to entry at 4:00 PM. Day-use visitors will exit the park by this time. Access to the firefly viewing area will open to ticket holders at 6:30 PM. During non-event days the frontcountry areas of the park (including the entrance road and visitor center) will be closed to the public after 4:00 PM.
Please visit the park’s Fireflies webpage for additional information about this event.
• Lottery Opens: March 31, 2022, 10:00 AM EDT
• Lottery Closes: April 6, 2022, 10:00 AM EDT
• Results Announced: April 14, 2022
• Event Dates: May 20-22 & 27-29, 2022
Location · Near Hopkins, SC
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Common Questions
What visitors most often want to know about Congaree National Park Firefly Viewing Lottery.
Do I need a permit to view the synchronized fireflies at Congaree National Park?
No permit is required to visit Congaree National Park. However, during peak firefly viewing season in late May, entry to the park is limited on specific evenings, and visitors must obtain a pass through a permit draw system to enter during those times.
When do the synchronized fireflies appear at Congaree?
The synchronized firefly display typically occurs in late May for approximately two weeks. The viewing takes place along the edge of the Congaree floodplain during the fireflies' annual mating ritual as spring transitions to summer.
How does the permit draw work for firefly viewing?
During peak viewing season, entry to the park is limited on designated evenings in late May. Visitors must enter a draw system to obtain a pass for evening access on those specific dates.
What species of fireflies can I see at Congaree?
Congaree National Park is home to several firefly species, including synchronized fireflies—one of only a few species worldwide that flash in synchronized patterns. This synchronized display is the primary draw for visitors during spring viewing season.