• Angel Falls Rapid on the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River

    Big South Fork

    National River & Recreation Area KY,TN

  • Whitewater

    Big South Fork of the Cumberland River is free-flowing with no dam controls. Check the river gauge readings before your river trip. Heavy rains can cause flooding and make river use dangerous. Always use a personal flotation device when on the river. More »

  • Steep Road Grade

    There is a 13% grade for an approximate 5 mile stretch on Highway 297 between Bandy Creek Road on the west of the river and Headquarters on the east side. This is called the gorge. Use caution when traveling with recreational campers or horse trailers. More »

  • Firewood Quarantine

    Firewood Ban is in effect for the park. Only firewood from the surrounding counties of Scott, Morgan, Pickett, and Fentress in Tennessee and McCreary in Kentucky can be brought into the park. Firewood is for sale or you may use dead and down wood. More »

  • Black Bears

    Black bears are found within this area. Store all food, cooking items, feed, cosmetics and coolers properly when in the campgrounds or when using the backcountry. More »

Public Comment Analysis Report Available

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Date: January 13, 2012
Contact: Tom Blount, 423-569-9778

Over the last several months, the National Park Service (NPS) has analyzed the comments received during the public comment period for the Oil and Gas Management Plan/Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area and the Obed Wild and Scenic River. At this time, we would like to share a report summarizing the public comment process and results. The report can be accessed at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/biso_obri_ogmp_deis_public_comments.

During the comment period (June 15-August 16, 2011), which included five public meetings, correspondence was received from individual members of the public, other agencies, organizations, and tribes. The NPS is now working on responses to the substantive comments and will publish them as part of the final environmental impact statement, which is anticipated for release in the summer of 2012.

If you would like a print copy of the report, please call Melanie Autry at (423) 569-9778.

Did You Know?

Hikers admire spring wildflowers near Charit Creek.

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area has over 150 miles of maintained hiking trails available for your enjoyment.  Trails range from short, one mile loops to long multi-day hikes through the rugged backcountry. More...