The best camping near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area adventure.

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Discover the rugged beauty of Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

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Bandy Creek Campground

145 sites · RVs, Tents In Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

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Station Camp Horse Camp

24 sites In Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

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Patrick's Point River Camp

70 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents212 acres · Williamsburg, KY

Looking for a quiet peaceful camp on 212 acres in the Appalachians Mountains along side the Upper Cumberland River under a canopy of shade trees? We offer WIFI, hot showers, restrooms, kayaks, shuttle service, hiking trail, horse trail, wildlife stands, electric, water, easy access to the river, 130’ x 100’ covered pavilion, tent camping, cabins, RV sites, and much more. Whether you are looking for a unique swimming hole location, a place to go fishing, kayak access, hiking trails or just a quiet place to enjoy your morning cup of coffee, we promise you will not be disappointed. You may wish to lay in a hammock along the river or under our covered 100 x 130 pavilion. We also have a beautiful creek to explore, very secluded and off the beaten path with lots of wildlife to enjoy. In addition to our relaxing atmosphere, this camp will also give you and your loved ones an incredible view to enjoy throughout your stay. Only 15.0mi via KY-90W by vehicle, 14mi by kayak to Cumberland Falls State Park with many hiking trails. One of the oldest original homesteads in the area, for nearly 150 years this gem has been in the family. We have shared it with many people over the years and would love to share it with you! These beloved woods are the remaining part of the once vast, Patrick homestead-started soon after the Revolutionary War. Our family ties and our roots grow very deeply along this river and these woods-we've been born and raised here and continue to strive to be good stewards of these lands. Pristine woods, trails, river access, and more! Located in the heart of the Appalachian and on the bank of the Upper Cumberland River. A truly tranquil place to enjoy exclusively, or to use as a basecamp for the unlimited adventures possible in this scenic area. Welcome and enjoy!

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Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

25 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · Williamsburg, KY

Thank you for considering Clayton Geneva memorial campground for your camping trip. Please read the entire description including our rules and regulations. Also be sure to view the site map. The gravel driveway to the sites is passable with any vehicle As long as the vehicle Does not have an aftermarket lowered profile or entirely overloaded with gear. We offer camping ranging from primitive tent sites, to an actual cabin. Hikers, kayakers, canoes, Horses and riders welcome, located a couple miles from Daniel Boone National Forrest, seemingly endless trails through some of the most beautiful country. Bring your canoe and kayaks. Located 16 miles from Cumberland Falls State Park. Located 11 miles from Sheltowee Trade Adventure Park. Located 11 miles from Kentucky Splash Water Park. 11 miles from The Mint Casino!! Clayton Geneva Camp Ground began as a retreat for our family since the 70's. My grandparents, Donald Clayton Russell & Jewel Geneva (Davis) Russell, purchased this little piece of heaven to get away from the hustle and bustle of Cincinnati life. Judy was born in a little cabin just down the road. Judy & Don along with many family members have made cherished memories here over the years. We want to share its beauty with you and your family. Guests love staying here "We stayed in Birdsong cabin for the Halloween campout weekend. The cabin was ready for us upon arrival and very clean. We enjoyed the privacy of our covered porch and fire ring. The bird feeders hanging all around the cabin are wonderful to watch all the birds during the day. The community fire ring is close enough to enjoy with other campers, but not to close that we could hear anyone in our cabin. Amber and Michael checked on our needs many times during our stay. They hosted a chili cook-off that we greatly enjoyed and passed out candy to all the kids. Overall a great time and experience. We will stay here again."

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Waterloo Falls

2 sites · Lodging, Tents10 acres · Cookeville, TN

The Property: Located north of Cookeville in the rolling hills and farmland, our property is on Spring Creek, a state scenic river. Situated between two waterfalls and featuring over half a mile of river frontage to explore. Float, fish and relax listening to the cascading water. Perfect for bird watchers- blue and green herons, ospreys, hawks, bald eagles and more. You may spot the creek critters- minks, beavers, and otters. Various types of bass, craw dad's and minnows are in the creek. We operate similar to a state park. We are open to the public from 10am-7pm, peak season. We have other listings that are spaced so each of our guests has privacy. Please see aerial photo for an overview. We sometimes have small events (birthday parties, ect) at the pavilion. Please feel free to message us first, if you would like to see if there are any events during your stay. There are 2 restrooms centrally located at the pavilion. One bathroom has a shower with hot water, soap, shampoo/conditioner included. The restrooms are shared with our other listings. There are USB and regular outlets in the pavilion and WiFi. During warm season the outdoor kitchen is available as well. We also rent out a Suite which is located above the pavilion. Quiet hours are 10pm-8am. Pets are welcome as long as they are leashed and picked up after. Please note there is a gun range 2 hollers away and depending on the season, it can be heard from our property. Tent in the Trees Listing: Your tent site is built above the trail and overlooking the creek. The tent is equipped with a queen bed, linens, and extra blankets. Your essential cooking gear (plates, utensils, cups, cookware, french press, coffee and 1 burner camp stove). There is a fire pit with grill and griddles for cooking over wood or charcoal. We supply fire wood for you and you're welcome scavange the wood nearby. Really, all you need is clothes, food and drink! Primitive Camp Site: The rustic camp site is DIY. It is 300' from pavilion, and 600' from Tent in the Trees. We provide a picnic table and fire pit with wood. You bring all the rest of your gear. Typically, you may park next to your campsite. If you have forgotten any gear, please ask us. We have some supplies available for rent. No RV's, converted vans are permitted. If you have a very small camper, please message us to see if we can accommodate. There are no hookups, and no loud generators allowed. Escape in nature and sleep soundly to the sounds of the creek!

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The Harrican Lakehouse

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · KY

There is a lot of history in this land. It's been in my family for over a hundred years. They worked the land with their hands and so have I. It's a special place. Come see for your yourself and be our guest at The Harrican! Learn more about this land: Unplug and unwind at this two story cabin built right on the water in the heart of the Kentucky Wildlands! Even though there is complete peaceful seclusion it does get a little noisy when the bullfrogs start their evening ritual. There is a dock and pier perfect for fishing or swimming. Firepit, grill with gas provided, two boats, fishing poles, lots of seating on the wrap around porch, two bedrooms; one with a queen bed and the other with two twin beds and just lots of natural beauty and peace! The BIG update everyone has been waiting for; the plumbing and electricity are now complete! We have all the ammenities to make your stay comfoetable and relaxing! Early and late check in and check out options available when availability exists the day before or after your booked stay. Thank you for interest in the Harrican Lakehouse!

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Breathtaking Waterfall & Campsite

11 sites · Tents35 acres · Jamestown, TN

Book by the end of March and get a Early Bird Discount! SLTABXED (10%) This hidden paradise has a waterfall that used to have a mill on it in the early 1900's. There are cliffs on each side of the creek making it the perfect spot for serene relaxation. Following upstream is an assortment of spots to pitch a tent. The most notable sites are surrounded by hemlock tree's and is peaceful when birds chirp over the small rapids echoing from the large overhang *I am in the process of making multiple sites but until I do so it is first come first serve. There are multiple sites at main campsite and along creek, I've had a private event of thirty people staying at once. There are also smaller spots next to waterfall, uphill near cliff and I've had people go below falls for some complete wilderness (blocked by gorge and waterfall). With this being said, I do offer private bookings and accommodate special events! *I travel for work, so I won't always be here, but I will send directions and details after confirmation and make sure all is savvy during. Please be respectful to one and another and let me know asap if any issues arise but truthfully everyone has been amazing and I thoroughly enjoy meeting and getting to know everyone! Thanks for your contribution in turning my dream into a reality!

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Lovejoy Falls Primitive Campsite

5 sites · Tents70 acres · Monterey, TN

We have a small piece of paradise out here in lovejoy falls. The river use to be called the Ramsey millhole. where the Ramsey family use to have a limber mill.Learn more about this land:The location is out in Love Joy Tennessee. We have several sites to camp that have easy walking access to the river and the waterfall. We are just up the road from the Muddy Pond Mennonite community, and a 25 minute drive to Burgess falls.

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Camping at Redtail Farm

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Powell, TN

Learn more about this land: Forest, creek side camping in a Tennessee 'holler'. Come relax at our campsite next to a flowing creek and enjoy a nice fire in the fire ring. Great site for car, van, and small RV camping. Composting toilet on site. Primitive campsite, currently no other amenities available. Veteran owned and operated.

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Shiloh @ Watts Bar Tent Campsite

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Rockwood, TN

Find peace at this private campsite close to Watts Bar Lake. Nestled in the tall trees, your large, private site features a fire pit, picnic table, and a “Tennessee Bathroom.” Site is nearly 100% shaded all day long. The area is surprisingly quiet. Deer, turkey, turtles, frogs, and cardinals have all been seen on the property. Before you exit your tent in the morning, stay quiet and look out first - who knows what you might see. Parking is right next to the site. Watts Bar Lake is within a few hundred yards and a public boat ramp is just about 3 minutes down the road. Watts Bar is over 72 miles long, 722 miles of shoreline, and is known for good fishing, kayaking, birdwatching, and other recreation. This is a good base for day trips to Knoxville, Chattanooga, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Smoky Mountain National Park. Note: Bring your own tent/supplies, or options include tent and/or propane tank rental. Pack out your own food, animal, and human waste. As this is private property, it is still the woods of Tennessee, so expect all that goes along with that. This property is in development, so added lodging and amenities will come on line in the future. We welcome your feedback. Enjoy the Tennessee peace and tranquility for one night or more!

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Teamwork D.’s Land

4 sites · Tents150 acres · Somerset, KY

We saw this land and immediately thought this is our Eden and now we want to share it with you.

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Awakening Adventures

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents42 acres · Grandview, TN

Welcome to our serene and rejuvenating private getaway nestled within 42 acres of forested beauty. The Sanctuary offers an unparalleled experience where nature meets comfort, allowing you and your group to unwind and reconnect with the tranquil surroundings. During the month of July 2024 we are setting up a 100ft Slip-N-Slide for our guests to enjoy and beat the summer heat!! We are uniquely situated on the edge of the Tennessee Cumberland Plateau and the Tennessee river valley. We are currently offering 4 treehouse dwellings to share our peaceful land full of God's promises. The dwellings are spaced far enough apart for privacy yet not to far of a walk to the common area where the kitchen and shower are. You'll be surprised at how cool the tents stay under the forest canopy in the heat of summer. Then in the colder months we have various heating options to keep you cozy in 3 of the dwellings I hope you come to share this with us, it's an amazingly peaceful area. Nearly 3 miles of hiking trails to enjoy during your visit. Take a spur trail off the main trail loop and there is a prayer shelter with a fire pit inspired by Luke 6:12 in the back corner of the property. The latest improvement is a sunrise/sunset/bird-watching platform that is 20 feet in the air with a 2 stage bridge to access it. We updated the outdoor kitchen with a 3 burner propane stove and running water. Other cooking options include a tripod over the fire and a charcoal grill. A short 10 minute drive to firetower rd brings you to a 2 mile loop trail with 2 waterfalls, Upper and Lower Piney Falls. Ozone falls is just a 20 minute drive. Then toward Spring City is Stinging Fork Falls at 25 minutes. The Hiking possibilities are nearly endless and close. I'll highlight one thru hike here since both trailheads are only 20 minutes away and is easy to coordinate with only 2 vehicles. It's a 10.2 mile hike that can be done in either direction and has a little something for everyone including a cave, boulder field, cascade and waterfall. Then you have massive Watts Bar Lake which is only 20 minutes away with a plethora of activities including the excursions we offer! We look forward to hosting you!

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Laurel Creek Campground

22 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Jamestown, TN

We have a beautiful, wooded campground with w/e campsites, full hookup, primitive sleeping cabins, 1 bed/1 bath cabins, and a 3 bedroom/2 bath trailer! We have a beautiful inground pool reserved for campers only, two waterfalls on sight, free wifi, and just minutes from both Big South Fork National Recreation Area and Pickett State Forest! We are pet friendly and never charge extra for your furr babies!

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Spacious Skies Belle Ridge

71 sites · Lodging10 acres · Monterey, TN

Escape to Spacious Skies Belle Ridge, your ultimate Tennessee adventure destination! Nestled in the heart of the Cumberland Plateau, our expansive 500+ acres property offers a unique blend of RV camping, glamping, and thrilling outdoor experiences. Hike miles of trails to discover cascading waterfalls and hidden caves, cool off in our natural swimming hole, or cast a line in the secluded fishing spot. We offer spacious, full hook-up RV sites for rigs of all sizes, ensuring a comfortable stay. Embrace the beauty of Tennessee – adventure and relaxation await at Spacious Skies Belle Ridge.

The best camping near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

Calling all white-water paddlers, mountain chasers, trout lov’n anglers, bicyclists, and fans of southern hospitality, it’s time for you to discover the hidden gem of the Smokies. The Big South Fork Recreation Area spans 125,000 acres of scenic gorges, sandstone bluffs, and ancient forests. Dive into to the many pristine streams that flow into the Cumberland River, or explore an array of trails and caves. Only a stone’s throw from Knoxville and a pleasant drive from Asheville, this recreational bliss can be all yours! And with ample campgrounds, you’ll want to grab your tent, rugged old boots, and a bottle of Jack, 'cause you're gonna stay awhile.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers full access to all activities but can be quite warm. Winters are less crowded but may have limited access due to weather conditions.

Know before you go

Check the park's website for alerts on current conditions and closures before your visit.
Wear appropriate footwear and gear for rugged outdoor activities such as hiking and rock climbing.
Cell service may be limited, so plan accordingly and inform someone of your itinerary.
Be mindful of park rules, especially if you're bringing a pet; the BARK Ranger program can guide you.
Remember to pack out all trash and respect the park's conservation efforts.