Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area

The free-flowing Big South Fork of the Cumberland River and its tributaries pass through 90 miles of scenic gorges and valleys containing a wide range of natural and historic features. The area offers a broad range of recreational opportunities including camping, whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, hunting and fishing. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, with its experience in managing river basins, was charged with land acquisition, planning and development of facilities. Now completed, these lands and facilities are operated and maintained by the National Park Service for the benefit and use of the public.

4564 Leatherwood Road
Oneida, TN 37841
(423) 569-9778 - Headquarters
(423) 286-7275 - Visitor Information
(606) 376-5073 - Visitor Information

By Plane
The closest commercial airports are in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee and Lexington, Kentucky.

By Car
The area is most easily reached by car. Southbound on I-75 take KY 461 south to KY 80, take 80 west to U.S. 27, take 27 south to Oneida and follow TN 297 west into the park. From I-75 northbound, take TN 63 west to U.S. 27, take 27 north to Oneida and follow TN 297 west into the park. From I-40 westbound, exit at U.S. 27, travel north to Oneida and follow TN 297 west into the park. From I-40 eastbound, exit at U.S 127 and travel north to TN 154, take 154 north to TN 297 and follow take 297 east into the park.

By Plane
No Public Transportation is available.

Getting Around
Personal vehicle, 4-wheel drive vehicle, bicycle and horse.

The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is located in a humid climatic region, typified by mild winters and moist warm to hot summers. Storm systems typically bring heavy rains from December through March which may cause flooding. Summer thunderstorms are common. Winter snowfall occurs intermittently in the area and averages 17 inches per year. Wear comfortable clothing for the season and bring clothing for the possible extremes.

Here are some of the activities that are offered at Mount Rainier National Park.

• Biking
• Boating
• Camping
• Climbing
• Educational Programs
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Horseback Riding
• Hunting
• Swimming
• Wildlife Viewing
• Backpacking
• Bird Watching
• Nature Walks
• Stargazing
• Kayaking
• Whitewater Rafting

Recommended Activities
A wide variety of recreational uses are promoted at the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. Whitewater rafting, canoeing and kayaking are popular in the spring months while canoeing and canoe camping on non-whitewater sections are available all year. Swimming is available in rivers and at the Bandy Creek Pool. Hundreds of miles of hiking and horse trails exist with no restriction on backcountry camping. Developed campgrounds and primitive lodging exist. Mountain biking is allowed on bike trails, horse trails and 4-wheel drive roads. Hunting and fishing are allowed in season with appropriate state licenses. Scenic overlooks are located in both the Tennessee and Kentucky portions of the park