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Increase in camping rates at the Wilderness Road campground
Effective June 1, 2013, camping rates will increase. Tent sites will increase to $14.00 per night and RV sites with electrical hookup will increase to $20.00 per night. Group camp sites will increase to $35.00 per night.
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Special Program offered in place of Hensley tour on June 16
The regularly scheduled Hensley tour will not be offered on June 16 but will be replaced by a special Father's Day program. The road to the Hensley Settlement will be open to visitors and living history demonstrations will be offered. More »
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Cave Tour Alert!
White Nose Syndrome is a disease that is killing bats in great numbers and has been found in park caves. While visiting Gap Cave please do not wear or bring anything that has been in other caves. Skylight Cave is currently closed.
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Civil War Event Cancelled
Invisible Souls: Behind the Veil of the Civil War, a special event showcasing stories of the Civil War October 4, 5, and 6, 2013 has been cancelled. Please call the park visitor center at (606) 248-2817, extension 1075 for more information.
Event Details
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Everyday from 05/20/2012 to 10/31/2012
Location: tours meet at the park visitor center | Map Time: 9:00 AM,1:30 PM Fee Information: $10.00 for adults, $5.00 for seniors with a senior pass, $5.00 for children 12 and under Contact Name: visitor center Contact Phone Number: (606) 248-2817, extension 1075
Visit historic Hensley Settlement for a nostalgic look into early 20th century Appalachia. Meander down fence lined lanes, peek into the blacksmith's shop, look into the springhouse or sit in the one room school. In 1904, Sherman Hensley and Willie Gibbons joined forces to establish a homestead on the mountaintop. Using hand tools to split chestnut logs, the settlers began to build homes. Fences surrounded the cleared land, creating pastures and garden plots. A thriving community soon emerged. The land, suitable for raising sheep and growing crops for liquid spirits, supported the community of twelve farmsteads for more than forty years.
Reservations are recommended and can be made up to one month in advance of the trip date.
Visitors must be able to walk one mile through the settlement; comfortable clothing and walking shoes are a must. Bring a light snack and drink for the 3 1/2 hour tour.