Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Tennessee

The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is a unit of the National Park Service located in Tennessee and Kentucky. Here are some key details about this area:

1. Location: The Big South Fork is situated in the Cumberland Plateau region, spanning the border between Tennessee and Kentucky. The majority of the area is in Tennessee.
2. Size: The park covers approximately 125,000 acres of land.
3. Features: The Big South Fork is known for its scenic beauty, featuring rugged canyons, sandstone bluffs, and the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River. There are also numerous natural arches and waterfalls within the area.
4. Recreation: Visitors to the Big South Fork can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, horseback riding, rock climbing, and whitewater paddling.
5. Cultural and Historical Sites: In addition to its natural attractions, the area preserves the cultural history of the region. There are remnants of old homesteads, coal mining operations, and other historical sites.
6. Hiking Trails: The area offers a network of hiking trails, including the John Muir Trail and the Twin Arches Trail, which leads to impressive natural sandstone arches.
7. Camping: Campgrounds are available for visitors who wish to stay overnight, and backcountry camping is also permitted in certain areas.
8. Entrance Fee: As of my last update in January 2022, there is no entrance fee to access the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area.

For the most current information on entrance fees, camping reservations, and other details, it is recommended to check the official National Park Service website or contact the park directly.