Camping

Big South Fork offers developed, primitive and equestrian campgrounds.

 

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area contains five developed campgrounds which are intended to meet the needs of almost any camper visiting the park.

Two campgrounds, Bandy Creek (TN) and Blue Heron (KY) are highly developed sites with many amenities while the Alum Ford Campground (KY) offers a limited number of primitive campsites. Two equestrian campgrounds, Bear Creek (KY) and Station Camp (TN) are both highly developed campgrounds in which one is operated by a concessionaire.

Although there are no campground stores, Bandy Creek Stables has a small tack store that carries limited supplies of convenience items for campers. Ice cream, pizza and other prepared food items can also be purchased. Be aware that most food and cooking items should be brought as needed but can be augmented with select items if you forget. The stable sells firewood and ice and has an ATM on site. Wi-Fi is also available at the stables. Camp store hours vary during the seasons, but generally are open during normal daytime business hours Spring through Fall. Winter hours are more limited.

Campers may also collect any wood that is down and dead.

• Camping Fees: Find out the cost to spend the night in the park.

Firewood Notice: Firewood brought in from outside the park is prohibited. We are requesting that firewood not be brought in from outside the park due to non-native insects that can be transported on firewood. Be prepared to buy or collect your wood once you arrive at the campground. Learn more about the emerald ash borer [295 kb PDF]