Horseback riding has become one of the most popular activities at Big South Fork. To provide access to many of the area's scenic features, there are over 180 miles of horse trails available throughout the Big South Fork. These horse trails are all signed and marked with a white blaze and yellow horse head. The trails vary in both length and degree of difficulty. They range from short, easy day rides to long and strenuous loops that may take several days to complete. Due to the extensive network of trails, horseback riders are advised to purchase a Trails Illustrated map from either of the park visitor centers, , a park concessionaire or local area businesses.
Big South Fork has developed a new trail map depicting the authorized trail system as it currently exists on the ground which is nine detailed maps of all trail uses.
In an effort to make the trail system more user friendly for the wide variety of users at Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area the park is implementing a trailhead and trail markings system.
Horse Health: Note that proof of a negative Coggins Test for Swamp Fever is required to bring horses into Big South Fork.
Horseback riding related facilities located in Big South Fork include:
- Bandy Creek Stables, a concessions managed stables available for those who wish to board their horse while camping at he adjacent Bandy Creek Campground. Providing an easy connection to the area's extensive trail system, Bandy Creek Stables offers facilities for stall rental and long term boarding of horses. For further information, please contact the Bandy Creek Stables, 1845 Old Sunbright Road, 38556 or phone 423-286-7433.
- Station Camp and Bear Creek are both operated by a National Park Service Concessionaire. Campsites provide water and electrical hookups, tie outs for four horses, restrooms with showers and a dump station. For additional information visit horse camps. To make reservations write to: Station Camp and Bear Creek Horse Camp, P.O. Box 4411, Oneida, Tennessee 37841 or call (423) 569-3321. For more information look at www.bigsouthforkhorsecamps.com.
- Charit Creek Lodge, located in the Station Camp Creek drainage offers a full range of amenities including cabin and dormitory rentals, meals, restrooms and showers. Access to the remote lodge is by foot, bike or horse only. Stalls are available and riders are encouraged to book reservations well in advance. For further information visit Charit Creek, write 299 Dewey Burks Rd, Jamestown, TN 38556 or call (931) 879-2776.
