Welcome to Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area
The
free-flowing Big South Fork of the Cumberland River and its tributaries
pass through 90 miles of scenic gorges and valleys containing a wide range
of natural and historic features. The area offers a broad range of recreational
opportunities including camping, whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing,
hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, hunting and fishing. The U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers, with its experience in managing river basins,
was charged with land acquisition, planning and development of facilities.
Now completed, these lands and facilities are operated and maintained
by the National Park Service for the benefit and use of the public.
Operating Hours & Seasons
The park is open year
around.
The Bandy Creek Visitor Center is open daily, except Christmas.
Visitor Center hours are 8:00 to 4:30 from November through May and 8:00
to 6:00 from June through October (eastern time).
The Kentucky Visitor
Center is open daily from May through October from 9:00 to 5:30.
From November through April hours may vary. Calling ahead is suggested.
Communities
Surrounding Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area
Note: The times listed below are approximate driving times to the park.
The
free-flowing Big South Fork of the Cumberland River and its tributaries
pass through 90 miles of scenic gorges and valleys containing a wide range
of natural and historic features. The area offers a broad range of recreational
opportunities including camping, whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing,
hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, hunting and fishing. The U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers, with its experience in managing river basins,
was charged with land acquisition, planning and development of facilities.
Now completed, these lands and facilities are operated and maintained
by the National Park Service for the benefit and use of the public.