If you’re looking for a beautiful, family-friendly place to camp or recreate, look no further than Big South Fork. Located in both Tennessee and Kentucky, this recreation area is perfect for nature lovers of all ages. We camped for three nights at the Bandy Creek Campground. Here are three reasons why you should consider camping at Big South Fork on your next trip.

1. Gorgeous Scenery

One of the best things about Big South Fork is its stunning scenery. The recreation area is home to towering cliffs, gorges, waterfalls, and forests. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, camping, and just enjoying the great outdoors. And, if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of some wildlife! We saw a black bear crossing the road near the campground.

2. Rich History

In addition to its natural beauty, Big South Fork is also rich in history. The area was once home to Native Americans and early settlers. Today, there are numerous historical sites and buildings that you can explore. When you camp at Big South Fork, you’ll have the chance to learn about the area’s fascinating past. Someday we hope to return to take a ride on the Big South Fork Scenic Railway which showcases the coal and logging history of the area.

3. Fun for the Whole Family

Big South Fork is the perfect place for a family camping trip. In addition to hiking and exploring, there are also plenty of other activities to keep everyone entertained. There are several playgrounds scattered throughout the recreation area, and families can also enjoy fishing, canoeing, and horseback riding. While we were there, a local stable was offering horseback rides for kids at the stable near the visitor’s center for a small fee. In summer months, they have pool near Bandy Creek Campground. There are lots of options for people of all ages and with varying interests.

If you’re looking for a beautiful place to camp that has something for everyone in your family, look no further than Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area. With its gorgeous scenery, rich history, and wide range of activities available, this recreation area has everything you need for a fun-filled camping trip! For more details on our Memorial Day trip Big South Fork, see our Trip Report.