Camping in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

98% (30 reviews)

Discover the rugged beauty of Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area.

Top camping in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. Bandy Creek Campground

100%

(19)

145 sites · RVs, Tents · In Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

2. Station Camp Horse Camp

100%

(1)

24 sites · In Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Can’t imagine a weekend without your four-legged lover? Check out Station Camp Horse Camp—its hot showers, grills, and tie-outs make it a perfect getaway for both of you

98% (30 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area adventure.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Snag reservations at sold-out campgrounds.

Get notified the instant a site becomes available, for free.

Find all the best options

Access 12k+ public and private campgrounds—from public parks to blueberry farms.

Book with confidence

Reserve community-vetted spots reviewed by 62k+ happy campers.

Stories from the community

1 night at Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

We had a good experience camping at Old Stump. The road was definitely a little nerve racking, but Amber had warned us about it and our minivan did fine getting there. Extra signs would be helpful, especially to help figure out the camp sites, but the spot by the river itself was lovely.

1 night at Patrick's Point River Camp

The grounds and shelter we had were great. I wish we had had more time to explore. Clean restrooms, nice showers.

1 night at Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

Great place great people stopped in on our way to Tennessee

Weekend Trip to Patrick's Point River Camp

We really enjoyed our stay at Patrick's place. We just wanted a place to park at night, and he offered exactly that. but he has more options if necessary.

Weekend Trip to Patrick's Point River Camp

Can not say enough praises about this place. Warmly welcomed right away. Some of the best rugged camping we have come across. We will definitely be back!

3 nights at Cascades at Waterloo

Tent camping was AWESOME along the creek!! Beautiful dispersed campsites, gorgeous swimming hole and views!! Alice is a great host, very friendly and helpful. We will definitely be going back!!

Weekend Trip to Waterloo Falls

Loved camping on Alice’s property. It was such a beautiful site, our boys enjoyed exploring the river and swimming next to the waterfalls. We stayed over 4th of July weekend, so it was busy with the day visitors, but they do a great job giving the campsite privacy. The campsite is private, it’s easy to find, and Alice was a great host.

Weekend Trip to Mountainfire!

After having some difficulties with other campsites on Hipcamp, Gavin’s campsite was a lovely little haven. The campsite was private and perfect. Gavin is one of the most considerate and generous hosts I’ve experienced.. Not even 10 minutes had passed and Gavin was already driving down to us to introduce himself and provide us wood for the evening. Great location near Cumberland Falls! Highly recommend.

Weekend Trip to Wow Mountain Resort

The cave sight was a very cool experience, not to bad to access, and very peaceful. The kids thought it was the coolest thing ever. I recommend it to anyone looking to just get away and disconnect for a while.

Weekend Trip to Patrick's Point River Camp

The camp site couldn't have been better great accomodations it was so relaxing

3 nights at Patrick's Point River Camp

We loved tent camping right on the river. The shade trees kept us cool and shaded even for July camping. Bathrooms were clean and kept stocked. Patrick and Angelica go out of their way to make sure all is good. We will def be back!

Driftwood Cabin- our home away from home.

Tina

3 days ago

Weekend Trip to Patrick's Point River Camp

Beautiful, serene place with friendly hosts. Great place to camp or "glamp it", like we did, by staying in a cabin. Its off the beaten path but still within reasonable drive of a city. Will definitely return

2 nights at Mountainfire!

Gavins farm provided the perfect backdrop for a relaxing getaway. The location was so close to the lake, making it easy to enjoy the water, if you dont mind a devent hike. It was a private location, which was great for peace and quiet, and the host was super friendly and helpful. Overall, it was an awesome experience, and we can't wait to go back!

1 night at Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

Great location and friendly folks running it! Definitely one of the better spots in the area.

1 night at Patrick's Point River Camp

For starters the host were fantastic. Angelica and Mr Patrick are good folks, friendly and very attentive to there guest needs. The campground is beautiful and has great facilities. You can certainly see that they have poured there heart & soul into making this place special. We had a blast on the 14 mile paddle trip down the river to Cumberland Falls State Park and the beautiful waterfall down the road. There are several fantastic little cabins to stay in or tent camp. I would definitely recommend Patrick's Point River Camp to anyone visiting the area. We will be back again. Thank you for the hospitality and God bless.

Carla

5 days ago

2 nights at Patrick's Point River Camp

Awesome place for peace and quiet... Very knowledgeable staff that care about their campers. Suitable sites for beginners and professionals campers.

1 night at Gray Hills

Such a beautiful place to camp! So quiet and beautiful views. We had a wonderful stay even though we were just passing through. Would definitely recommend. Steep drive in but 100% worth it. The host was extremely nice and helpful! Loved the brochure 😀

2 nights at Waterloo Falls

We absolutely loved our stay at Waterloo! The falls are gorgeous, the campsite was clean and tidy (and right next to the water!), and use of the flush restroom and shower was great. Great vibe, and Alice was so kind! Only hiccup was they were doing yardwork (mowing) from about 8:30am-10am on our first morning there, sometimes really close to our camp site. Totally understand that they need to maintain the landscaping, but it was a bummer to be sipping coffee by the quiet stream and then be interrupted by the loud mower. That was the only thing that kept the experience from being perfect!

Weekend Trip to Waterloo Falls

Alice is a fantastic host! The zen and breathtaking views made us add an additional night to continue enjoying it! We traveled with our two dogs and they couldn’t get enough of the waters and waterfall. We spent more time at the upper falls as it was easier swimming conditions for the pups. Alice was extremely helpful our entire stay and even gave us some insight for some additional views and hikes! The tent is stocked with everything you need. In fact, we brought too many things that were already provided. We can’t wait to come back! Has been one of my most enjoyable Hicamp stays so far!

Weekend Trip to Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

I always love camping at Amber's. They make everything easy. It is so beautiful and peaceful. The river is beautiful and easy to wade, float, and kayak. Camp is close to so many waterfalls and Laurel River lake is gorgeous.

Top-rated campgrounds near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

99%

(603)

Patrick's Point River Camp

75 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents212 acres · Williamsburg, KY

Looking for a quiet peaceful camp on 212 acres in the Appalachians Mountains along side the Upper Cumberland River under a canopy of shade trees? We offer WIFI, hot showers, restrooms, kayaks, shuttle service, hiking trail, horse trail, wildlife stands, electric, water, easy access to the river, 130’ x 100’ covered pavilion, tent camping, cabins, RV sites, and much more. Whether you are looking for a unique swimming hole location, a place to go fishing, kayak access, hiking trails or just a quiet place to enjoy your morning cup of coffee, we promise you will not be disappointed. You may wish to lay in a hammock along the river or under our covered 100 x 130 pavilion. We also have a beautiful creek to explore, very secluded and off the beaten path with lots of wildlife to enjoy. In addition to our relaxing atmosphere, this camp will also give you and your loved ones an incredible view to enjoy throughout your stay. Only 15.0mi via KY-90W by vehicle or 14mi by kayak to Cumberland Falls State Park with many hiking trails. One of the oldest original homesteads in the area, for nearly 150 years this gem has been in the family. We have shared it with many people over the years and would love to share it with you! These beloved woods are the remaining part of the once vast, Patrick homestead-started soon after the Revolutionary War. Our family ties and our roots grow very deeply along this river and these woods-we've been born and raised here and continue to strive to be good stewards of these lands. Pristine woods, trails, river access, and more! Located in the heart of the Appalachian and on the bank of the Upper Cumberland River. A truly tranquil place to enjoy exclusively, or to use as a basecamp for the unlimited adventures possible in this scenic area. Welcome and enjoy!

98%

(588)

Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · Williamsburg, KY

Thank you for considering Clayton Geneva memorial campground for your camping trip. Please read the entire description including our rules and regulations. Also be sure to view the site map. The gravel driveway to the sites is passable with any vehicle As long as the vehicle Does not have an aftermarket lowered profile or entirely overloaded with gear. We offer camping ranging from primitive tent sites, to an actual cabin. Hikers, kayakers, canoes, Horses and riders welcome, located a couple miles from Daniel Boone National Forrest, seemingly endless trails through some of the most beautiful country. Bring your canoe and kayaks. Located 16 miles from Cumberland Falls State Park. Located 11 miles from Sheltowee Trade Adventure Park. Located 11 miles from Kentucky Splash Water Park. 11 miles from The Mint Casino!! Clayton Geneva Camp Ground began as a retreat for our family since the 70's. My grandparents, Donald Clayton Russell & Jewel Geneva (Davis) Russell, purchased this little piece of heaven to get away from the hustle and bustle of Cincinnati life. Judy was born in a little cabin just down the road. Judy & Don along with many family members have made cherished memories here over the years. We want to share its beauty with you and your family. Please consider, Clayton Geneva is a primitive campground, gravel drives and left as natural as possible. This is not a sculpted campsite or a concrete campground. The primitive area is as such, gravel, grass, sand terrain accessible by a one lane gravel drive that leads over the hill and around the cliff to the riverbank. This drive is absolutely passable however is left bumpy to keep traffic at a safe speed as pedestrians also walk the drive. It is passable by any vehicle as long as the vehicle is not overloaded beyond its ability and/or has an extremely low profile. Any area that is not an actual campsite is left to nature, not manicured, trimmed or sculpted. As you’ll find all the sites are clear please don’t expect micromanaging of wild growth of our native plants in areas around the sites as we reserve those areas for the wildlife to enjoy. Please consider all the above mentioned details, primitive campsites are not for everyone and that’s ok.

99%

(240)

The Harrican Lakehouse

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · KY

There is a lot of history in this land. It's been in my family for over a hundred years. They worked the land with their hands and so have I. It's a special place. Come see for your yourself and be our guest at The Harrican! Learn more about this land: Unplug and unwind at this two story cabin built right on the water in the heart of the Kentucky Wildlands! Even though there is complete peaceful seclusion it does get a little noisy when the bullfrogs start their evening ritual. There is a dock and pier perfect for fishing or swimming. Firepit, grill with gas provided, two boats, fishing poles, lots of seating on the wrap around porch, two bedrooms; one with a queen bed and the other with two twin beds and just lots of natural beauty and peace! The BIG update everyone has been waiting for; the plumbing and electricity are now complete! We have all the ammenities to make your stay comfoetable and relaxing! Early and late check in and check out options available when availability exists the day before or after your booked stay. Thank you for interest in the Harrican Lakehouse!

High Knob Hideaway

1 site · RV1 acre · La Follette, TN

Private RV Spot with Full Hookups – ATV/UTV Access, Close to Norris Lake; Trails in Lafollette, TN This private RV spot, offers full hookups and a perfect location for those seeking adventure or relaxation. Whether you're an ATV/UTV enthusiast, a boating fan, or just love exploring nature, this campsite has something for everyone. Situated just 2 miles from the Lonas Memorial Public Boat Launch and less than 2 miles from downtown Lafollette, you’ll have easy access to the stunning Norris Lake for boating, fishing, and water recreation. For off-road lovers, the site is located directly on a legal ATV/UTV roadway, giving you access to miles of trails, including the nearby Royal Blue Trail Access Entrance, only 2.5 miles away. Whether you’re exploring Norris Lake’s scenic waters, tackling the Royal Blue Trails, or simply enjoying the quiet charm of the area, this spot offers the ideal balance of outdoor adventure and convenience.

100%

(107)

Waterloo Falls

2 sites · Lodging, Tents10 acres · Cookeville, TN

The Property: Located north of Cookeville in the rolling hills and farmland, our property is on Spring Creek, a state scenic river. Situated between two waterfalls and featuring over half a mile of river frontage to explore. Float, fish and relax listening to the cascading water. Perfect for bird watchers- blue and green herons, ospreys, hawks, bald eagles and more. You may spot the creek critters- minks, beavers, and otters. Various types of bass, craw dad's and minnows are in the creek. We operate similar to a state park. We are open to the public from 10am-7pm, peak season. We have other listings that are spaced so each of our guests has privacy. Please see aerial photo for an overview. We sometimes have small events (birthday parties, ect) at the pavilion. Please feel free to message us first, if you would like to see if there are any events during your stay. There are 2 restrooms centrally located at the pavilion. One bathroom has a shower with hot water, soap, shampoo/conditioner included. The restrooms are shared with our other listings. There are USB and regular outlets in the pavilion and WiFi. During warm season the outdoor kitchen is available as well. We also rent out a Suite which is located above the pavilion. Quiet hours are 10pm-8am. Pets are welcome as long as they are leashed and picked up after. Please note there is a gun range 2 hollers away and depending on the season, it can be heard from our property. Tent in the Trees Listing: Your tent site is built above the trail and overlooking the creek. The tent is equipped with a queen bed, linens, extra blankets & essential cooking gear. There is a fire pit with grill and griddles for cooking over wood or charcoal. Really, all you need is clothes, food and drink! Primitive Camp Site: The rustic camp site is DIY. It is 300' from pavilion, and 600' from Tent in the Trees. We provide a picnic table and fire pit You bring all the rest of your gear. Typically, you may park next to your campsite. No RV's, converted vans are permitted. If you have a very small camper, please message us to see if we can accommodate. There are no hookups, and no loud generators allowed. Bundles of wood available $10. Escape in nature and sleep soundly to the sounds of the creek!

97%

(75)

Wow Mountain Resort

5 sites · Tents150 acres · Somerset, KY

We saw this land and immediately thought this is our Eden and now we want to share it with you. We hope you love it too. There is a cave camping site and 3 other active sites. We are adding 5 more campsites very soon. They will be basic bare bone campsites with no tent platforms or fire places. The original 4 have tent platforms and fire places.

89%

(9)

Spacious Skies Belle Ridge

71 sites · Lodging10 acres · Monterey, TN

Escape to Spacious Skies Belle Ridge, your ultimate Tennessee adventure destination! Nestled in the heart of the Cumberland Plateau, our expansive 500+ acres property offers a unique blend of RV camping, glamping, and thrilling outdoor experiences. Hike miles of trails to discover cascading waterfalls and hidden caves, cool off in our natural swimming hole, or cast a line in the secluded fishing spot. We offer spacious, full hook-up RV sites for rigs of all sizes, ensuring a comfortable stay. Embrace the beauty of Tennessee – adventure and relaxation await at Spacious Skies Belle Ridge.

100%

(6)

Cascades at Waterloo

12 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Dodson Branch, TN

Camping Enthusiasts—Your Adventure Awaits on Spring Creek! Welcome to your perfect nature escape—over a mile of stunning Spring Creek frontage with soaring limestone cliffs, shaded woodlands, and peaceful creekside camping spots. Whether you’re an avid angler, wildlife watcher, or someone who simply enjoys the sounds of rushing water and rustling leaves, this hidden gem offers a truly immersive back-to-nature experience. The Campsites Our primitive campsites are 'choose your own special spot', offering both wooded seclusion and sunny creekside views. Ideal for experienced backpacking campers, sites are walk in (no more than 1 mile). We encourage Leave No Trace principles—pack in, pack out, and respect the land. Creekside Activities Spend your days cooling off in natural swimming holes, floating peacefully down the creek, or casting a line for smallmouth and red eye bass. The area is teeming with wildlife—you may spot otters, mink, deer, and a variety of bird species from songbirds to eagles. In spring and early summer, wildflowers carpet the forest floor, adding a splash of color to your hikes. Nearby Attractions Just a short walk down the creek from your campsite, you'll find Waterloo Falls—a beautiful natural area featuring two scenic waterfalls, outdoor recreation, and event center. Guests are welcome to enjoy the area by adding a day-use fee to your reservation (details provided upon booking). Please note that Waterloo Falls occasionally closes for private events, so we recommend checking availability with us in advance if you'd like to include it in your adventure! Just 1 mile from the property is the Bend of the River Gun Range—perfect for shooting enthusiasts looking to sharpen their skills. For more conventional needs, Cookeville Center is a short 20-minute drive away, offering grocery stores, restaurants, and supply shops. You’ll be close enough for convenience, yet far enough to fully unplug and relax. Important Notes This is a primitive camping experience. No electricity, plumbing, or RV hookups. You must bring your own water, camp stove, and waste disposal supplies. This property is best suited for experienced campers who are comfortable with rugged, natural terrain. Come for the solitude. Stay for the soul-filling connection to nature.

100%

(107)

Breathtaking Waterfall & Campsite

11 sites · Tents35 acres · Jamestown, TN

Book by the end of March and get a Early Bird Discount! SLTABXED (10%) This hidden paradise has a waterfall that used to have a mill on it in the early 1900's. There are cliffs on each side of the creek making it the perfect spot for serene relaxation. Following upstream is an assortment of spots to pitch a tent. The most notable sites are surrounded by hemlock tree's and is peaceful when birds chirp over the small rapids echoing from the large overhang *I am in the process of making multiple sites but until I do so it is first come first serve. There are multiple sites at main campsite and along creek, I've had a private event of thirty people staying at once. There are also smaller spots next to waterfall, uphill near cliff and I've had people go below falls for some complete wilderness (blocked by gorge and waterfall). With this being said, I do offer private bookings and accommodate special events! *I travel for work, so I won't always be here, but I will send directions and details after confirmation and make sure all is savvy during. Please be respectful to one and another and let me know asap if any issues arise but truthfully everyone has been amazing and I thoroughly enjoy meeting and getting to know everyone! Thanks for your contribution in turning my dream into a reality!

100%

(1)

Appalachia Ridge

28 sites · Lodging, RVs60 acres · Clinton, TN

Discover Appalachia Ridge Located next door to the world-famous Museum of Appalachia, Restaurant, and Gift Shop, our campground is just a short drive from Knoxville, Gatlinburg, and the Great Smoky Mountains. Appalachia Ridge is the perfect central location for enjoying a VOLS game, a trip to the Smokies, or nearby attractions like Norris Lake, Aspire Park, and Windrock Park. Stay with us and enjoy the best of both relaxation and adventure while avoiding the traffic. Our brand-new campground offers the ideal base for exploring all the local attractions and activities

100%

(2)

Gray Hills

8 sites · RVs, Tents150 acres · Gray, KY

150 acres of raw, peaceful beauty tucked in the Appalachian foothills—just 20 minutes off I-75 near Corbin in southeast Kentucky, but a world away. Gray Hills is a primitive escape for families, friends, and solo wanderers alike—designed to quiet the chaos, steady the soul, and focus on what truly counts. Our sites are surrounded by rolling hills, quiet woods, and big skies. Choose your experience: Pondside – Camp by the water where frogs sing at dusk and mist rises at dawn. Ideal for fishing, relaxing, or spotting wildlife. Bring your own kayak or rent one on site (availability varies). Hilltop – Secluded, breezy, and wide-open, with stunning sunrise and sunset views. Feels like the edge of the world. All sites are primitive—no hookups, no concrete, just fire pits, natural trails, and the kind of peace that gets into your soul. Our dirt roads are a little bumpy to keep speeds safe. The campsites, trails, and key spots are kept cleared—the rest stays wild for the deer, turkey, and everything else that lives here (yes, bugs too—bring your repellent!). A nearby train also runs on its own schedule—it’s part of the holler charm. If you love it rugged, real, and peaceful, join us at Gray Hills where you can breathe deep and stay wild! Need help finding your ideal campsite? Let us guide you! Best sites for fishing - 1, 2, 3 Best site for kayak launch - 2 Best sites for most seclusion - 4, 6, 7, 8 Best sites for RVs/campers - 3, 5 Best sites for campervans - 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 Best for large groups - 3, 6, 7 Best sites for stargazing - 5, 6, 7, 8 Best sites for sunsets - 2, 6 Best sites for sunrises - 7, 8 Best sites for hammock camping - 2, 3, 4, 8 Shaded sites - 1, 2, 3, 4, 8 Sunny sites - 5 (no shade), 6 (some shade), 7 (no shade) Best sites to Breathe Deep and Stay Wild - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

96%

(61)

Camping at Redtail Farm

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Powell, TN

Learn more about this land: Forest, creek side camping in a Tennessee 'holler'. Come relax at our campsite next to a flowing creek and enjoy a nice fire in the fire ring. Great site for car, van, and small RV camping. Composting toilet on site. Primitive campsite, currently no other amenities available. Veteran owned and operated.

Camping in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

Calling all white-water paddlers, mountain chasers, trout lov’n anglers, bicyclists, and fans of southern hospitality, it’s time for you to discover the hidden gem of the Smokies. The Big South Fork Recreation Area spans 125,000 acres of scenic gorges, sandstone bluffs, and ancient forests. Dive into to the many pristine streams that flow into the Cumberland River, or explore an array of trails and caves. Only a stone’s throw from Knoxville and a pleasant drive from Asheville, this recreational bliss can be all yours! And with ample campgrounds, you’ll want to grab your tent, rugged old boots, and a bottle of Jack, 'cause you're gonna stay awhile.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers full access to all activities but can be quite warm. Winters are less crowded but may have limited access due to weather conditions.

Know before you go

Check the park's website for alerts on current conditions and closures before your visit.
Wear appropriate footwear and gear for rugged outdoor activities such as hiking and rock climbing.
Cell service may be limited, so plan accordingly and inform someone of your itinerary.
Be mindful of park rules, especially if you're bringing a pet; the BARK Ranger program can guide you.
Remember to pack out all trash and respect the park's conservation efforts.

98%

30 ratings · 8 reviews

Recommends

· June 2025

Clean, fun, friendly experience

Veronica C.

2 reviews

Recommends

· May 2025

Very nice place with beautiful walking trails

Jacob M.

2 reviews

Recommends

· May 2025

So much to see and do! Amazing

Kim C.

2 reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

No way you can see everything in one day!

Jamie B.

2 reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

Moonbow

The Big South Fork is a beautiful and fun place to visit. We saw the moon bow and it was awesome. Best time to see it is 2 hours after sunset so the moon has time to rise more.

Debbie J.

2 reviews

September 2018

Bandy Creek Campground

We spent the weekend of 8/24-26 camping in Big South Fork and barely scratched the surface of the park's offerings. We stayed at the Bandy Creek Campsite in Loop A and were very comfortable with the property's well-maintained facilities. There is an on-site Ranger Station with information about the park as well as a camp store and firewood/ice purchases on the honor-system. The campground is close to a number of great day hikes, and none of the trails we explored were farther than a 30min drive away. Would definitely stay here again and recommend to future campers!

Matthew F.

7 years on Hipcamp

August 2018

Bandy Creek Campground

We camped in Loop A of Bandy Creek last weekend for two nights. The campground's extremely well-maintained--as mentioned in the review below, each site has a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern pole, as well as a bear-safe food compartment. The restrooms were very clean, with two showers (and hot water!) in both the women's and men's rooms, and a sink out front for dishwashing. The general amenities are also great--the visitor's center is beautiful, and there's a camp store near the horse stables that sells all the basics. We especially appreciated the firewood between stables 4 and 5 that anyone can buy at anytime (just slip $10 in the box). We'll definitely be back!

Alina G.

7 years on Hipcamp

September 2016

Bandy Creek Campground

We stayed at Bandy Creek the last week of March, 2016. There are several different Loops. We stayed in Loop A, which is for tent campers only. The other loops accommodate tents and RVs. It is moderately wooded, but you can still easily see other campers and campsites from your own. With that being said, there were probably only 4 other campers there with us. It was freezing outside! The campsite is extremely well maintained and we had a lantern post, a fire ring, a picnic table, and a gravel pad to put the tents on. The bathhouse has his and her restrooms and a family restroom. There is a sink to do dishes as well. It is also heated and the showers have hot water so if you are camping in cold weather this is a great spot to go.

Trinity O.

8 years on Hipcamp