Big South Fork Tennessee Travel Information
Located northwest of Knoxville, Big South Fork National River and
Recreation Area is a hidden treasure of outdoor fun and breathtaking
scenery. The park’s name comes from the south fork of the Cumberland
River which alternately flows and rages as it passes through 90 miles
of rugged gorges and cool valleys here. The 113,000 acres of the Big
South Fork area stretches from Tennessee into Kentucky. Once a
source of timber and coal, this natural area boasts 500-foot deep
gorges, cliffs, arches and river-carved stone shelters once used by
Native Americans and early settlers. Rafting is a popular activity
ranging from an easy float down the river to Class V whitewater.
Sheltowee Trace Outfitters is a one stop for canoe rentals or raft
tours. See the natural beauty up close along some of the area’s
150 miles of hiking trails ranging in length and skill from short/easy
to long/strenuous. Angel Falls Trail, at 2 miles, is rated easy and
steers hikers past river views, rapids and wildflowers. John Litton
General Slaven Loop, rated “moderate”, covers six miles past an old
farmstead and small waterfalls. Outdoor recreation is
wide-ranging in the natural area. Bikers may ride on any road in the
park; mountain bikers may journey on designated routes only. Over 130
miles of trails are open to horseback riders; two horse camps are
located in the park. Fishing is a big draw on the river with
smallmouth bass and bream the main catches. Hunting, bird watching
and wildlife viewing are other popular pastimes. Lodging at Big
South Fork includes Charit Creek Lodge, a backcountry facility with
access by foot or horseback only. The lodge has full service
year-round accommodations, including an 1817 cabin, but there are no
phones or electricity. A stable and corral are available. Or try
Wildwood B & B Lodge at nearby Jamestown with 10 rooms, cabins and
stables. The country breakfasts and dinners prepared by a European
master chef should make roughing it a little easier. Open
year-round, Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area is located
about 2 hours northwest of Knoxville and 30 miles from I-75, near
Jamestown, off TN 52.
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