Encompassing 125,000 acres of the Cumberland Plateau, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area protects the free-flowing Big South Fork of the Cumberland River and its tributaries. The area boasts miles of scenic gorges and sandstone bluffs, is rich with natural and historic features and has been developed to
Free — you won’t need your pass here.
Free entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
- Fee type No fee — No fee is charged here.
- HoursThe park is always open.
- Source National Park Service ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.nps.gov ↗
- Contact 4235699778 · biso_information@nps.gov
Please use the following link to learn more about how to get here from various locations.
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
No Is there a fee at Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area?
No — it’s free to enter, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you camp at Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Angel Falls Trail, Bald Knob-Hill Cemetery Trail (aka Ledbetter Road), Bandy Creek Amphitheater Trail, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you bike here?
Yes — biking is available at Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Usually only leashed and in developed areas, campgrounds, and paved paths — not on most trails or in buildings. Pet rules vary by park, so check first.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Park Service land.
Yes What are the hours?
The park is always open.
Nearby sites
NPS Photo National Park Service Obed Wild & Scenic River
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Censusdata at English Wikipedia / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Lake Cumberland
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
