Documenting the Wild: A Rainy Adventure in Congaree National Park

Early Morning Prep:

At the crack of dawn, I meticulously packed my camera gear into dry bags, gearing up for a unique documentary venture in Congaree National Park. This time, the setting was the backcountry, exposed to the elements, without power, and navigating by boat down Cedar Creek to Congaree River.

Discovering Congaree:

After years in Columbia, initially frustrated by the seemingly nonexistent outdoor spaces, I found the wonders of the Midlands through friends and personal exploration. South Carolina's sole national park, just outside Columbia, initially appeared underwhelming with a short boardwalk disrupted by flooding. It wasn't until I delved into the backcountry that I grasped the beauty and significance of this old-growth floodplain—a revelation I aimed to share through the documentary.

Embarking on the Journey:

Loaded with camera and camping gear in dry bags, I headed to Kingsnake Trailhead for the upper part of Cedar Creek—the starting point of our three-day expedition. Rain loomed as we loaded boats, eventually accepting the inevitable wet conditions. Rainwater collected in the boat, but my well-prepared dry bags and makeshift trash bag covers kept the camera safe. Despite the rain, an early encounter with a barred owl set a promising tone.

Navigating the Elements:

As we paddled down the creek, rain persisted, hindering immediate shots of the owl. However, the relentless weather presented opportunities for unique and rewarding footage. The rain continued into the afternoon, prompting us to set up camp for the night. Amid the challenges, changing into dry clothes and practicing shots fueled anticipation for the main event the next day.

A backpacking adage proved true—bad weather makes for a better experience. This holds for outdoor video shooting, where meticulous setup collides with unpredictable elements like animals, mud, and mosquitoes. The night's final interview on a beach campsite, surrounded by aching muscles and gear caked in mud, reinforced the satisfaction derived from overcoming challenges.

Documenting Congaree National Park in adverse conditions brought its share of challenges, but it also unveiled the true essence of this unique natural treasure. Stay tuned for the documentary, where we bring the park's beauty and importance to life, rain or shine.