Big South Fork National Recreation Area

For a pawsome outdoor experience in the Southeast Region, look no further than the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area! Located in both Tennessee and Kentucky, this furrific site spans 125,000 acres on the Cumberland Plateau, boasting various natural features such as scenic gorges and sandstone bluffs. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to the park for its wide range of recreational activities, which include hiking, whitewater rafting, birdwatching, rock climbing, and stargazing. The best part is, you can enjoy this gem with your four-legged BFF!

Hiking is one of the most pawpular activities within the NRRA, and for good reason. Big South Fork contains an extensive trail system designed to take you and your pooch into the heart of the park. Whether you're looking for a short and easy stroll along the river or a multi-day hike through the backcountry, there's something for adventurers of all ages and abilities. Some of the most traveled paths in the park include the Twin Arches Upper Loop, which will take you and Fido to the largest sandstone arches in Kentucky and Tennessee; the Yahoo Falls Loop Trail, which provides access and views of the 113-foot Yahoo Falls; and the Blue Heron Loop Trail, which visits the abandoned coal mining town of Blue Heron.

With so many things to see and do at Big South Fork, staying for at least a couple of days is highly recommended. The park offers five campgrounds, two of which are highly developed with many amenities. To keep campers happy, all Bandy Creek and Blue Heron campsites come with picnic tables, fire rings, and access to showers and restrooms. Note that there are no campground stores, so pack accordingly.

Wherever your adventure takes you, always keep your furry friend on a 6-foot leash and clean up after them so that everyone can have a pawsitively puptastic time at the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area!