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Dads and Kids

Congaree

March 27–29, 2026 Longleaf Campground · Congaree National Park, SC
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About the Trip

A weekend of primitive camping.

Dads and kids gathering to share outdoor experiences, swap stories, and enjoy time in nature — under the stars at Congaree National Park.

Dates
March 27–29, 2026
Arrive 4:00 PM Fri · Depart 11:00 AM Sun
Location
Longleaf Campground
Congaree National Park, Hopkins, SC
Cost
Free
Organizers cover the reservation fee
Distance
1.5–2 hours
From Rock Hill / Fort Mill area
The Site
Walk-in campsite
~5 min from parking · pit toilet + running water
What to Know
Bring your own gear
Tent, sleeping bag, cookware, and food

Join Us

Register through Luma to reserve your spot.

Sign up by March 12 to guarantee a spot.

Register on Luma →

Organized by Matt Shaw and John DaCosta

What to Bring

Packing List

Print checklist →
Clothing
  • Good camp shoes or sandals
  • Warm outer layer – Maybe raincoat too
  • Long sleeve shirt
  • Short sleeve shirt
  • Pants
  • Shorts
  • Extra socks and undies
Shelter & Sleep
  • Tent
  • Sleeping bags – or sheet and blankets
  • Sleeping pads – for comfort and warmth
  • Camp chair
  • Pillow
  • Tarp – optional
Kitchen
  • Camp stove + fuel
  • Cook pan or pot and kettle
  • Utensils and silverware
  • Water bottle for each person – Or more than one
  • Water purification system – Optional, not needed
  • Lighter + matches
Food
  • Dinner – Cook over fire or on your stove
  • Breakfast staples – Oatmeal, Hot Pockets, etc
  • S'mores supplies!
  • Snacks and fruit
  • Coffee, tea, hot chocolate
  • Plenty of water – we will be able to refill
  • Freeze tried meals – keeping it simple
Safety & Hygiene
  • Headlamp + extra batteries
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Bug spray and sunscreen – Hopefully not needed
  • Knives, multitools
  • Saw, axe
Other
  • Trekking poles – in event of a hike
  • Printed articles – to pass around the fire
  • Towel
  • Power bank
  • Camera
  • Cigars
  • Gun – for wildlife protection

Each person brings their own shelter and sleep system. Cooking gear and water filtration can be shared across the group.