Tent camping near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area offers opportunities in a region characterized by sandstone cliffs and gorges carved by the Cumberland River system. The area sits at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,600 feet, creating varied microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Water levels at campsites near lakes and rivers fluctuate seasonally, with several visitors noting significant drawdowns during late summer and fall.
What to do
Hiking the Twin Arches: The Twin Arches Loop Trail provides access to impressive natural sandstone formations in the Big South Fork area. "My son and I have been twice... We parked at the Twin Arches Loop National Recreation Trail head, then made our way down into the valley to view the two gorgeous and huge arches there," reports a Backcountry Camping visitor. "Fair warning, some of the 'stairs' down into the canyon are steep so be prepared."
Kayak camping: Laurel River Lake allows for boat-in camping experiences accessible by water craft. "My first experience to a boat in and did it all on my own! My boat was my kayak. I parked at the Grove marina and packed all I could on my kayak and headed to the sites. This was a pretty decent paddle away," shares an Grove Boat-In Campground camper who notes the area gets "very busy on labor day weekend."
Mountain biking to campsites: Some camping areas can only be accessed by trail. "It can't be accessed by car but you can bike in on a dirt service road. Most of the docks are quite small, so plan to visit by small boat or by canoe/kayak," explains a visitor to White Oak Boat-In Campground. This creates unique opportunities for combined biking and camping trips.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Campers consistently seek out more private spots throughout the region. "I loved site 48 at Cliffy Campground. It was the most secluded spot we could find. Definitely book ahead of time if you can," advises a visitor to Clifty Campground — Cumberland Falls State Resort Park.
Waterfront camping: Sites with water views rank highly among tent campers. "We found this campground almost by accident late at night. The sites are well spread out for the most part, the view is very nice if you get to camp on the water," notes a camper at Rockcastle, highlighting how waterfront sites often offer more space.
Well-marked trail systems: The trail network surrounding many campgrounds enhances the experience. "The state park offers 5 trails, pavilions, as well as playgrounds and a lake," reports a visitor to Rabbit Road Campground. "The camping path and sites were well marked, and sites started at #10, next to the parking lot, and family bathhouse."
What you should know
Seasonal facility changes: Some campgrounds reduce services during shoulder seasons. "Campground is closed, but the boat launch is open. Might be able to park in boat launch parking," warns a Rockcastle visitor, highlighting the importance of checking facility status before arrival.
Site variations: Even within the same campground, site quality and size can differ dramatically. "The sites are inconsistent between their sizes on the Clifty campground. We had two small tents and one car. If we had any more gear or people it would have been uncomfortable," cautions a Clifty Campground visitor who recommends: "If you can hand pick your site or scout it out before hand it is well worth doing that if you have a larger sized family or tent."
Permit requirements: When tent camping in backcountry areas of Big South Fork, proper documentation is required. "Make sure you have your permit with you while camping and have a wonderful time in this beautiful valley," advises a backcountry camper who enjoyed setting up "a little ways off of the trail."
Tips for camping with families
Evaluate bathhouse conditions: Bathroom facilities vary widely across campgrounds. "Shower facilities reminded me of middle school camp... kind of mildewed... and well... rustic. Everything functioned and it wasn't 'gross' just old," notes a Clifty camper. Another visitor at Pulaski County Park reports: "Only one bathhouse open and I don't think they cleaned it once all week."
Check swimming options: Several campgrounds offer water recreation for kids. "Great beach access. Quite and very clean," says a Pulaski County Park visitor. The park also offers "a basketball court, volleyball court, disk golf, and a small beach area," making it suitable for active families.
Select tent sites strategically: For families needing more space, campsite selection matters. "Some of the campsites at Clifty were much larger and were 2 of my site," explains a camper who suggests closely examining the campground map before booking.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV facilities: While the Big South Fork region has many tent camping options, dedicated RV facilities are more limited. "Great place to go camping and priced well. More RV sites have been added. More are needed," notes a Pulaski County Park visitor with 58 years of camping experience at the location.
Site length restrictions: RV campers should verify site dimensions before arrival. "At Ridgeline they even have one campsite (tent) that was rated for 16 campers. Generally, each site was rated for 8 campers," explains a visitor familiar with Cumberland Falls State Resort Park who adds: "Look closely as each site is rated for a different RV length and they had one pull in site."
