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Contact: Christopher Derman, 423-569-9778
Big South Fork NRRA is requesting public comment on a proposal to increase the daily fee for overnight stays at some of the park campgrounds, for daily use of picnic shelters as well as add a new venue for event reservations. A review completed in fall 2022 recommended the fees to increase based on other comparable facilities as well as ensure that park rates do not undercut business in nearby communities. The proposed changes would go into effect on January 1, 2024.
The proposed rates are as follows:
Campground Fees
| Campground | Current Fee | Proposed Fee |
| Bandy Creek Campground 30-amp Electric Hook-up |
$25/night | $30/night |
| Bandy Creek Campground 50-amp Electric Hook-up |
$32/night | $35/night |
| Bandy Creek Group Camp | $125/night | $140/night |
| Blue Heron Campground 30-amp Electric Hook-up |
$20/night | $30/night |
| Blue Heron Campground 50-amp Electric Hook-up |
$32/night | $35/night |
| Alum Ford Campground | $5/night | $15/night |
Day Use Fees
| Shelters | Current Rate | Proposed Rate |
| F-Loop Picnic Shelter | $10/day | $30/day |
| Bandy Creek Pool Picnic Shelter | $25/day | $30/day |
| Blue Heron Picnic Shelter | $25/day | $30/day |
| Blue Heron Overlook Gazebo | Not applicable | $120/two hours |
America the Beautiful Interagency Senior/Access pass holders would continue to receive fifty percent off the nightly campground fee; however, this discount would not apply to picnic shelter rentals, gazebo rentals, or group camping at Bandy Creek Campground.
Park picnic shelters provide spacious accommodations for individuals and groups to gather and enjoy the outdoors. Some have electric and water available.
The newly restored Blue Heron Overlook Gazebo located at the end of the Blue Heron Overlook Trail is a perfect event location that provides a spectacular view of the park. The gazebo would be reservable online through Recreation.gov (https://www.recreation.gov) for two-hour blocks of time at $120 each.
In addition, the park plans to add the campsites at Alum Ford Campground on the national reservation system beginning on May 1, 2024. This will improve the overall camping experience at Big South Fork NRRA by having all campsites available for reservation through Recreation.gov, especially for those open year-round. The demand for campsites has increased considerably over the last few years and the advantage of reservations allows visitors to plan their trips with the comfort of knowing a site is available upon arrival. Fee revenue is used to support projects that improve visitor experiences including maintaining and improving trails, campground facilities, visitor centers, as well as funding critically needed job positions.
Please provide your comments by October 1, 2023, by email to: biso_superintendent@nps.gov, or via mail:
Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
Attention: Park Superintendent
4564 Leatherwood Road
Oneida, TN 37841
The public comment period for all these changes will run from September 28 through November 1, 2023. For more information, call 423-569-9778.
Last updated: September 28, 2023