Top Tent Camping near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Searching for a tent camping spot near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area? The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. Whether you're looking for a quiet, dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Camping Sites Near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, KY (109)

    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

    1.

    Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

    45 Reviews
    184 Photos
    156 Saves
    Parkers Lake, Kentucky

    Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, near Corbin, KY, is a gem for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature. Known as the "Niagara of the South," this park offers a stunning waterfall that's a must-see. The campground itself is cozy, with a mix of tent, RV, cabin, glamping, and yurt accommodations.

    One of the standout features here is the electric hookups available at most sites, which is a nice perk if you're bringing an electric vehicle. The campground also has drinking water, showers, and toilets, making it a comfortable spot for a weekend getaway. Fires are allowed, and you can purchase firewood on-site, so no need to haul your own.

    For families, there's a playground to keep the kids entertained, and a small on-site store for any essentials you might have forgotten. If you're into hiking, the park has several trails, including the Wildflower Loop Trail and Eagle Falls Trail, which offer beautiful views and a good workout.

    Some visitors have mentioned that the campsites can be a bit tight, especially for larger rigs, so keep that in mind when planning your trip. However, the natural beauty of the park more than makes up for it. The falls are free to visit, and there's even a 45-minute horse ride available for just $25, which is a steal.

    Overall, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities, making it a great choice for your next camping adventure.

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    2.

    Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    40 Reviews
    129 Photos
    83 Saves
    Rugby, Tennessee

    Overview

    Bandy Creek is a spacious and modern campground, situated in The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area--a vast and scenic expanse of land that offers visitors countless recreational activities.

    Recreation

    Numerous trails snake through the Recreation Area, offering mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding for visitors. A swimming pool, along with on-site volleyball court, playgrounds and ball fields, make Bandy Creek an ideal spot for families. The main river of the Big South Fork is also a short drive away, offering fishing opportunities.

    Facilities

    Numerous trails snake through the Recreation Area, offering mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding for visitors. A swimming pool, along with on-site volleyball court, playgrounds and ball fields, make Bandy Creek an ideal spot for families. The main river of the Big South Fork is also a short drive away, offering fishing opportunities.

    Natural Features

    The Big South Fork is located in north central Tennessee and southeastern Kentucky in some of the most rugged terrain of the Cumberland Plateau. The park encompasses approximately 125,000 acres including rocky gorges and forested plateaus. Numerous pristine streams unite with the free-flowing Big South Fork of the Cumberland River. Over thousands of years, ceaselessly moving water has carved the sandstone of the plateau into impressive cliffs, arches and chimneys, which are found throughout the park.

    Nearby Attractions

    Located just under 20 miles from Bandy Creek is the Blue Heron Mine, also known as Mine 18, a historic abandoned mining town that has been rebuilt as an outdoor museum. Visitors can hear audio presentations from actual people who lived in the community in the 1950s.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $140 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    3.

    Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    22 Reviews
    130 Photos
    31 Saves
    Stearns, Kentucky

    Overview

    Blue Heron Campground is a rustic and spacious campground, situated on the Kentucky side of The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area--a vast and scenic expanse of land that offers visitors countless recreational activities.

    Recreation

    Numerous trails snake through the Recreation Area, offering mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding for visitors. The main river of the Big South Fork is also a short drive away, offering fishing opportunities.

    Facilities

    Numerous trails snake through the Recreation Area, offering mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding for visitors. The main river of the Big South Fork is also a short drive away, offering fishing opportunities.

    Natural Features

    The Big South Fork is located in north central Tennessee and southeastern Kentucky in some of the most rugged terrain of the Cumberland Plateau. The park encompasses approximately 125,000 acres of both rocky gorges and forested plateaus. Numerous pristine streams unite with the free-flowing Big South Fork of the Cumberland River. Over thousands of years, this ceaselessly moving water has carved the sandstone of the plateau into impressive cliffs, arches and chimneys that are found throughout the park.

    Nearby Attractions

    Just a few miles from the campground is Blue Heron Mine, also known as Mine 18, a historic abandoned mining town that has been rebuilt as an outdoor museum. Visitors can hear audio presentations from actual people who lived in the community in the 1950s. The Big South Fork Scenic Railway Depot is located about 9 miles away in the town of Stearns, which offers train rides and other educational opportunities for campers. More information can be found online at https://bsfsry.com. Additional attractions include the Daniel Boone National Forest and Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, offering additional recreation opportunities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground

    4.

    Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    224 Photos
    102 Saves
    Pall Mall, Tennessee

    Welcome to Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground! This cozy spot is a gem for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors. The campground is small but mighty, offering a clean and well-maintained environment. Each campsite comes equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and grill, making it easy to settle in and enjoy your stay. Some sites even have water and electric hookups, though not all do, so plan accordingly.

    One of the standout features here is the bathhouse, which is kept in great condition with showers that have excellent water pressure. If you're into hiking, you're in luck. Several trails are accessible right from the campground, leading you to stunning natural bridges and rockhouses that the area is famous for. The geological sights are truly something to behold.

    For those who love water activities, the park has a boathouse where you can rent boats, kayaks, and canoes. Paddling on the lake is a serene experience, and the scenery is nothing short of picturesque. If you're into stargazing, you'll be thrilled to know that the park is an accredited International Dark Sky Park. The astronomy field offers some of the best star views you'll ever see.

    The campground is near Jamestown, TN, and is part of the larger Pickett State Park, which abuts the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. This means you have even more trails and natural beauty to explore just a short drive away. Whether you're here for a weekend or a longer stay, Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground offers a peaceful retreat with plenty to see and do.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $23 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Mountain State Park Campground — Indian Mountain State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Mountain State Park Campground — Indian Mountain State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Mountain State Park Campground — Indian Mountain State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Mountain State Park Campground — Indian Mountain State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Mountain State Park Campground — Indian Mountain State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Mountain State Park Campground — Indian Mountain State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Holly Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Holly Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Holly Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Holly Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Holly Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Holly Bay

    6.

    Holly Bay

    13 Reviews
    62 Photos
    130 Saves
    Keavy, Kentucky

    Overview

    Holly Bay, located two miles north of the Laurel River Dam, sits on the west side of Laurel River Lake. Visitors enjoy the campground for its proximity to the water and beautifully forested location. Plus, Holly Bay is ideal for activities like power boating, canoeing and fishing. The forest was named after Daniel Boone, a famous frontiersman and explorer who settled in Kentucky in the late 18th century.

    Recreation

    Boating and water activities are a big hit. A boat ramp is located a short distance from the campground.Hikers take pleasure in the 4.2-mile Sheltowee Trace Trail that leads from the campground to the dam.

    Facilities

    Boating and water activities are a big hit. A boat ramp is located a short distance from the campground.Hikers take pleasure in the 4.2-mile Sheltowee Trace Trail that leads from the campground to the dam.

    Natural Features

    Most campsites are surrounded by a mixture of hardwood trees that provide picture-perfect colors in autumn. Laurel River Lake spans 5,600 acres of deep, clear water and 192 miles of cliff-lined shore. Bountiful hills from the Appalachian foothills create a backdrop for the lake area.

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (606) 878-8134.

    Nearby Attractions

    Head to the Cumberland Falls Trail that begins at Cumberland Falls and ends at the mouth of the Laurel River. This trail is a 30-45 minute drive from the campground.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $38 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from General Burnside Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from General Burnside Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from General Burnside Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from General Burnside Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from General Burnside Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from General Burnside Island State Park Campground

    7.

    General Burnside Island State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    25 Photos
    18 Saves
    Burnside, Kentucky

    This recreation area is part of Lake Cumberland

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland
    Camper-submitted photo from Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland
    Camper-submitted photo from Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland
    Camper-submitted photo from Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland
    Camper-submitted photo from Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland
    Camper-submitted photo from Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland

    8.

    Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland

    9 Reviews
    20 Photos
    62 Saves
    Burnside, Kentucky

    Overview

    Waitsboro Campground is at 500 Waitsboro Road and is situated on beautiful Lake Cumberland in southern Kentucky.Click here for the Lake Cumberland virtual tour.

    Recreation

    Lake Cumberland is the largest man-made lake east of the Mississippi River. Its large surface acreage and over 1,200 miles of shoreline provide a myriad of recreational activities. The lake has an abundance of largemouth, smallmouth, white and Kentucky bass, bluegill, crappie, rockfish and walleye, making it a favorite among anglers. The Black Walnut Nature Trail, located near the lake office, is a self-guided educational trail. The trail is open Monday through Friday 8:00am to 4pm EST.

    Facilities

    Lake Cumberland is the largest man-made lake east of the Mississippi River. Its large surface acreage and over 1,200 miles of shoreline provide a myriad of recreational activities. The lake has an abundance of largemouth, smallmouth, white and Kentucky bass, bluegill, crappie, rockfish and walleye, making it a favorite among anglers. The Black Walnut Nature Trail, located near the lake office, is a self-guided educational trail. The trail is open Monday through Friday 8:00am to 4pm EST.

    Natural Features

    The campground overlooks the main body of the lake, offering sweeping scenic views. Dense stands of mature hardwoods forest the site, offering scenic views, pleasant shade and wildlife habitat. Because of the temperate climate and relatively long recreation season, the lake provides varied outdoor recreational opportunities for millions of visitors each year.

    Nearby Attractions

    General Burnside Island State Park is nearby. It was named after Civil War General Ambrose Burnside, who led patrols along the Cumberland River, circling this 400-acre island to keep watch for Confederate soldiers. Visitors come today to enjoy boating, fishing, golfing and picnicking on Kentucky's only island state park. Burnside Marina is 10 minutes away, with boat rentals, a restaurant and general store.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Great Meadows
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Meadows
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Meadows
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Meadows
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Meadows
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Meadows

    9.

    Great Meadows

    7 Reviews
    8 Photos
    22 Saves
    Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Kentucky

    The Great Meadows Campground, located on Stearns District of the Daniel Boone National Forest, is developed on both sides of the road. Deer Loop is on the right; Raccoon Loop is on the left. Deer Loop is open year round; but the water is shut off during the winter season. Raccoon Loop is April 1 - November 15. Make this page look nicer by submitting photos of your visit to Great Meadows Campground. Learn more... View Great Meadows Guide and Map Rock Creek, a designated Kentucky Wild River, runs along the Raccoon Loop. Rock Creek is stocked with rainbow trout March - June and September - December.. Campsite availability is on a first-come, first-served basis. Trails nearby: Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail - Section 37 and Section 38; Mark Branch Trail # 635 and Gobblers Arch Trail # 636.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Cove Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cove Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cove Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cove Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cove Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cove Lake State Park Campground

    10.

    Cove Lake State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    49 Photos
    93 Saves
    La Follette, Tennessee

    Welcome to Cove Lake State Park Campground, a gem nestled in the mountains of Tennessee. This spot is perfect for those who love a mix of nature and convenience. The campground is open year-round, so whether you're a summer sun-seeker or a winter wanderer, you can always find a place here.

    One of the standout features of this campground is its proximity to the lake. Many sites, like the popular #27, offer stunning lake views and are shaded by towering pines. It's a peaceful setting where you can enjoy the quiet, interrupted only by the occasional bird song. If you're into fishing or kayaking, you'll love the easy access to the water.

    The campground is also big-rig friendly, making it a great choice for RV travelers. You'll find electric hookups, drinking water, and a sanitary dump station to make your stay comfortable. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.

    Visitors have praised the friendly and helpful staff, who are always ready to assist, even after hours. The bathhouses are generally clean and conveniently located near many sites. There's also a camp store at the front of the park where you can stock up on essentials like firewood and ice.

    For families, the playground and open fields provide plenty of space for kids to run around and play. And if you're looking to explore, the Devil's Backbone section of the Cumberland Trail is nearby, offering some beautiful hiking opportunities.

    Overall, Cove Lake State Park Campground is a fantastic spot for a relaxing getaway, with plenty of amenities and natural beauty to enjoy. Whether you're here for a quick overnight stay or a longer vacation, you'll find it a welcoming and enjoyable place to camp.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $55 / night

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is Cumberland Falls State Resort Park with a 4.3-star rating from 45 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area?

TheDyrt.com has all 109 tent camping locations near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, with real photos and reviews from campers.