The Obed Wild and Scenic River looks much the same today as it did when the first white settlers strolled its banks in the late 1700s. While meagerly populated due to poor farming soil, the river was a hospitable fishing and hunting area for trappers and pioneers. Today, the Obed stretches along the Cumberland Plateau
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 open every day.
- Source National Park Service ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.nps.gov ↗
- Contact 4233466294 · obri_information@nps.gov
The Obed Wild & Scenic River Visitor Center is located at 208 North Maiden Street in downtown Wartburg, Tennessee. Please use the link for more information.
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Obed Wild & Scenic River — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
No Is there a fee at Obed Wild & Scenic River?
No — it’s free to enter, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Yes Can you fish at Obed Wild & Scenic River?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Obed Wild & Scenic River. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you camp at Obed Wild & Scenic River?
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 Boulder Trail, Cumberland Trail, Emory Nature Trail, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Depends Do you need a permit to climb?
Rock climbing is available here; some routes or areas may need a permit. Check current climbing regulations first.
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.
Nearby sites
NPS Photo National Park Service Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
George Green, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Dale Hollow Lake
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
