Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area Travel Guide

Discover the cultural and natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, safety tips, and transportation options for Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area.


Introduction to Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is located in the southern United States, in North America. It is a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering breathtaking views and a wide range of activities.

The park covers an area of over 125,000 acres, with the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River carving a scenic gorge throughout the park.

List of Places to Visit in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Barthell Coal Mining Camp: This is a reconstructed mining town that allows visitors to see what life was like for the early settlers in the region.

  • The Twin Arches: This unique rock formation offers visitors the chance to hike to the top for a spectacular view.

  • The Blue Heron Coal Mining History: This museum features artifacts and exhibits documenting the history of coal mining in the area.

  • The John Muir Trail: This is a short trail (less than a mile) that showcases the beauty of the area and is named after the famous writer and naturalist.

Natural Attractions of Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hiking Trails: The park offers over 150 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to strenuous overnight hikes.

  • Horseback Riding: Horseback riding is available in the park and is a unique way to experience the beauty and wilderness of Big South Fork.

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: The Big South Fork River is a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing.

  • Rock Climbing: There are many great climbing areas in the park, including the Twin Arches and O&W Bridge.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

  • The Honey Creek Loop: This is a 5.5-mile hike that offers scenic views of waterfalls and rock formations.

  • The Angel Falls Overlook Trail: This is a moderate hike that showcases the beauty of Angel Falls.

  • The John Muir Trail: This is a short trail that is ideal for families and offers great views of the park.

Best Things to Do in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area: Activities and Tours

  • River Rafting Tours: Take a guided rafting tour down the Big South Fork River.

  • Scenic Train Rides: Take a ride on the Big South Fork Scenic Railway for a unique perspective of the park.

  • Wildlife Tours: The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, and guided wildlife tours are available.

Week-Long Itinerary for Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrive at the park and take a scenic drive through the region
Day 2 Hike to the Twin Arches and Blue Heron Mining Town
Day 3 Go kayaking or canoeing on the Big South Fork River
Day 4 Take a guided wildlife tour
Day 5 Tour the Barthell Coal Mining Camp
Day 6 Enjoy a scenic train ride
Day 7 Depart the park

Food and Drink Scene of Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hot Browns: This is a local dish, consisting of toasted bread, turkey, bacon, and cheese sauce.

  • Burgoo: This is a hearty stew made with a variety of meats and vegetables.

  • BBQ: There are many great BBQ restaurants in the area.

Local Beverages

  • Bourbon: Kentucky is known for its bourbon, and there are many local distilleries to visit.

  • Beer: There are many local breweries in the area, offering a variety of craft beers.

Where to Stay in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Camping: There are several campgrounds in the park, offering both RV and tent camping options.

  • Lodges: There are several lodges located near the park, including the Big South Fork Lodge and the Charit Creek Lodge.

  • Cabins: There are several cabin rentals available in the area.

What to Buy in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Crafts: There are many local artisans in the area, offering unique handmade crafts.

  • Bourbon: Take home a bottle of locally distilled bourbon.

  • BBQ Sauce: There are many varieties of local BBQ sauce available.

Local Culture and Customs of Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

The local culture in the area is heavily influenced by the region’s mining history. Visitors will find many museums and historical sites dedicated to the mining industry.

Best Time to Visit Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

The best time to visit the park is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its most beautiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Do:

  • Take advantage of the many hiking trails in the park.
  • Respect the wildlife and stay a safe distance away.
  • Take a scenic train ride for a unique perspective of the park.

Don’t:

  • Approach or feed the wildlife.
  • Litter or leave trash in the park.
  • Ignore park rules and regulations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

  • Be aware of your surroundings and watch for hazards on hiking trails.
  • Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for outdoor activities.
  • Stay hydrated and bring plenty of water on hikes.

Health in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

  • Poisonous snakes and insects are present in the park, so be cautious and know how to identify dangerous species.
  • Be prepared with any necessary medication for allergies or medical conditions.

Getting to Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

  • Nashville International Airport
  • Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport

Bus Stations Near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

  • Greyhound Bus Lines
  • Megabus

Other Options

  • Driving: The park is easily accessible by car.

How to Get Around in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

  • Walking or hiking is the best way to experience the park’s natural beauty.
  • There is no public transportation available in the park.

Where to Go Next from Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Mammoth Cave National Park
  • Nashville, TN

Conclusion

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its stunning beauty, diverse wildlife, and range of activities, it offers something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, or just taking a scenic drive, Big South Fork has it all.