Paramedics loading Robert Kimbler into an ambulance after he and his children were rescued Tuesday morning./NPS

A father and his two children missing in the swampy backwoods of Congaree National Park in South Carolina were found shortly after sunrise Tuesday and rescued by rangers.

Rangers initially made voice contact with Jerry Robert Kimbler, 43, of Lexington County, South Carolina, and his children, 10-year-old Dakota and 6-year-old Jade in an area about two miles off trail in the park.

They then were able to reach the trio, who were not thought to be prepared to spend three nights out in the park, and lead them to safety. While the three were said to be in stable condition, they were taken to a nearby hospital for observation.

A media briefing was planned for later Tuesday morning to provide additional details.

The three were reported missing Saturday evening by the children's mother. Apparently Mr. Kimbler sent a text message asking for help at about 9:30 p.m. Saturday to a friend. The three were believed to have gone down a trail near the park's Harry Hampton Visitor Center.