Nemo Area

View of Nemo Bridge surrounded by green foilage.

Nemo is one of several public access areas along the Obed Wild & Scenic River, with options that fit a range of trip styles, from a quick stop for views and a short walk to a full day of paddling (when water levels allow) or fishing. Use the sections below to plan your visit, know what to expect on arrival, and choose the best activities for the season and conditions.  

Brown national park directional sign pointing two different directions on the side of the highway. — Directional sign located in the Nemo area showing the direction to Rock Creek Campground and Nemo Picnic Area.
NPS Photo

Location

Address:
GPS Coordinates for Nemo Picnic Area: 36° 4' 12.7344" N 84° 39' 47.9088" W

Directions:

Visitor Center to Nemo

From Obed WSR Visitor Center in downtown Wartburg drive a couple blocks south to Spring Street and turn right, then follow Spring Street as it bends and becomes Catoosa Road. Stay on Catoosa Road as it winds out of town for several miles, watching for the Nemo Picnic Area entrance on the right just before you reach Nemo Bridge over the Emory River; if you cross the bridge, you’ve gone slightly past the turnoff.

Going to Rock Creek Campground / Nemo Trailhead

Continue across the concrete bridge, then turn right onto the gravel entrance road for Rock Creek Campground (about 6.1 miles from the visitor center).

Things to Do

Picnic

Nemo Picnic Area is a convenient place to stop for a meal or a break by the river. Amenities include vault toilets, changing rooms, bear-proof trash containers, and picnic tables with grills. Dedicated parking is available nearby.

Accessibility: Accessible parking spaces are provided, and each picnic table includes accessible seating.

Water Recreation

Nemo Picnic Area and Rock Creek Campground both provide recreational access to the Emory River, which is suitable for wading, swimming, floating, and paddling.

Emory River is a Class II-III free-flowing whitewater stream. Visitors should exercise caution and be aware of stream flow, rapids, and changing conditions depending on environmental factors.

This area also provides ample opportunities for fishing, including a few known spots for muskellunge.

Hike and Explore

Cumberland Trail – Emory River Gorge section trailhead can be found by the picnic area parking lot, close to the vault toilets. You can also use the historic Nemo Bridge to cross from the picnic area to Rock Creek Campground and vice-versa on foot.

Camping

Rock Creek Campground is tent-only with no electric or water hookups. It’s open year-round and reservations are made through the national reservation system. Learn more about Rock Creek Campground.

Backcountry camping is allowed within the Obed Wild & Scenic River boundary. There are no designated backcountry sites, and a free permit is required.