Big South Fork National Park Oneida, Jamestown Tennessee

Tennessee doesn't just have terrific state parks but is the home to National Parks too. The Big South Fork National Park is nestled between the towns of Oneida and Jamestown in East Tennessee. It's a little more remote that most Tennessee parks but is definitely worth the drive.

The official name is the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. There is no entrance fee. The park is as big as the name. It covers a whopping 125,000 acres of the Cumberland Plateau and covers part of both Tennessee and Kentucky.

In fact, it is so large that the Central/Eastern time zone runs through the park. Don't worry though, the offices and most of the rest of the park runs on Eastern time.

This is another great place that my family enjoys visiting. It is more complicated to get to but worth the drive. There are several twists and turns. If you are coming from I-75 get off at the Huntsville exit. Follow the signs. Be sure to stop at the Scott County / Big South Fork visitor center in Huntsville. The staff there has brochures and maps and is a wealth of information.

There is so much to do here that knowing where to start is tough. Activities include 150 miles of hiking, picnicking, whitewater paddling, camping, horseback riding, hunting, star gazing, fishing, mountain bike riding and many photograph opportunities.

The Bandy Creek Visitor Center is next to the Bandy Creek Campground. You can buy bagged ice at the center but there is no store. There is a small tack shop at the Bandy Creek Stable close to the visitor center. None of the 5 campgrounds offer stores. Be prepared to bring anything with you that you may need. Otherwise, the nearest grocery stores will be in Jamestown, TN or Oneida, TN.

Firewood for camping must be purchased or collected at the campgrounds in Big South Fork National Park. Firewood from certain states is prohibited. A list of prohibited states can be found here.

There are two equestrian campgrounds and over 180 miles of horseback riding trails. The Big South Fork National Park is a top equestrian location. Campers can board horses at the Bandy Creek Riding Stables.

When it comes to scenery few places can top the Big South Fork.

If you like breathtaking scenery you will love the Eastern Rim Overlook off of Highway 297. This part of the park gives you an amazing view of the Big South Fork River. You can see unbroken country for miles. The walk from the parking area to the overlook is short. The trail is paved and is fully accessible with several park benches available. There is a picnic table and composting restrooms are available.

There are several great picnicking locations. These have tables and grills. When you are finished eating put all food items away carefully. Secure leftovers in your car. Throw away trash in the specially designed bear proof bins.

Although it is a little unusual you may see a black bear. These usually won't come close. It is estimated that there are about 50 bears in the Big South Fork National Park. Feeding them is illegal.

The Big South Fork National Park has two visitor centers. These are located in Bandy Creek in Tennessee and Stearns in Kentucky. Be sure to stop at either (or both) for information and trip planning.

The hours of operation for the visitor centers are (May - Sept.) 8:00 am - 6:00 pm. (Oct.-April) 8:00am - 4:00 pm. Times quoted are for the Eastern time zone.

Because of the remoteness the Big South Fork National Park is not an easy add-on to an existing trip. It is better as a day trip or multi-night destination. Use the campgrounds or stay in a motel in one of the surrounding communities.

Source:
Personal Experience
University of Tennessee
National Parks Service