How many miles of horse trails are at Big South Fork?

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area has more than 212 miles of designated horse trails, marked with red blazes, ranging from short loops to multi-day backcountry routes.

Do I need a Coggins test to ride at Big South Fork?

Yes. Proof of a negative Coggins test is required for every horse in both the Tennessee and Kentucky areas of the park and must be in the handler possession at all times.

Where can I camp with horses at Big South Fork?

Station Camp Campground (24 sites) and Bear Creek Horse Camp (23 sites) are developed equestrian camps with water and electric hookups, tie-outs for four horses, showers, and dump stations, open April through October. Bandy Creek Stables also offers boarding beside the Bandy Creek Campground.

What is a good beginner horse trail at Big South Fork?

Shorter loops such as the roughly 7.4-mile Bandy Creek to Jacks Ridge Loop are a good introduction to the trail system. Always confirm current conditions and use the official NPS Horseback Riding Trail Guide.

Big South Fork equestrian guide

Miles to ride. Room to live.

Fentress County puts one of the country’s great horse-trail systems within reach. Start with the practical details, then find the place that lets you make the saddle part of daily life.

The riding country

More than 212 miles of horse trails at Big South Fork.

Designated trails wind through forest, streams, sandstone bluffs, and scenic overlooks, marked by the park’s red blazes. Routes range from a few hours in the saddle to multi-day backcountry rides, making this a versatile home base for riders.

212+Miles of horse trails

8Popular equestrian trailheads

Apr–OctDeveloped horse-camp season

Start with a route that fits your day.

Distances and effort below are a general guide. Confirm current conditions and use the official NPS Horseback Riding Trail Guide before you choose a route for your horses, group, and season.

Effort

7.4 mi · Half-day intro

Bandy Creek–Jacks Ridge Loop

A shorter loop for getting acquainted with the trail system and its footing.

Effort

11.3 mi · Toward Charit Creek

Bandy Creek–Charit Creek

A longer ride toward the remote Charit Creek Lodge, where stalls are available, so reserve well ahead.

Effort

14.6 mi · Full day

Bandy Creek–O&W Trail

A full-day distance through classic Big South Fork country.

Effort

14.6 mi · Full-day loop

Charit Creek–Station Camp Loop

A connected loop for riders planning a more complete day out.

Popular equestrian trailheads

Bandy Creek
Cumberland Valley
Middle Creek
Charit Creek
Gobblers Knob
Terry Cemetery
Station Camp
Peters Mountain

A partial list of well-known access points, per the National Park Service. Pick up the equestrian trail map, which differs from the hiking map, at Bandy Creek Visitor Center.

Stay close to the trail

Equestrian camp options.

Station Camp Campground

Set beside the Big South Fork River, and open April through October. Reserve on Recreation.gov.

24 sites Water Electric Showers 4 tie-outs Dump

Plan with NPS

Bear Creek Horse Camp

Developed sites in the northern trail system, with a paved access road that handles larger trailers. Open April through October.

23 sites Water Electric Showers 4 tie-outs Dump

View camp details

Bandy Creek Stables

A concession stable for boarding your horse while you camp at the adjacent 149-site Bandy Creek Campground.

Boarding Showers Trail access 149 sites

Explore facilities

Before you haul in

Trip logistics.

Maps & permits

Download the NPS Horseback Riding Trail Guide and stop at Bandy Creek Visitor Center for the equestrian map, permits, and current trail and river conditions.

Trailer access

Staging room, turnaround space, and road clearances vary by trailhead, so confirm access before hauling a loaded rig. Buyers often ask us which properties sit closest to rideable access.

Vet & farrier

Large-animal veterinary and farrier services are rural and limited near the park. Line up a local provider before you travel, and pack a basic equine first-aid kit.

Before you ride

The local checklist.

Regulations and conditions change. Confirm current rules, closures, reservations, and trail status before every trip.

Ride only designated horse and multi-use trails, and follow the park’s red trail blazes.
Carry proof of a negative Coggins test for each horse. It is required in Tennessee and Kentucky and must stay in your possession at all times.
Developed horse camps are open April through October; reserve sites through Recreation.gov.
Remove manure from trailheads, parking areas, and developed campsites; in the backcountry, scatter it at least 100 feet from water.
Tie horses at least 100 feet from water, and never to historic structures, cemetery grounds, or trees you would damage.
River crossings change with season and rainfall, so check current levels and closures at Bandy Creek Visitor Center before you ride.

Find a place that keeps the trail close.

Tell us how you ride, what you trailer, and what you need at home. We will help you compare the communities and properties that fit.

Explore communities Talk with an agent

Trail facts, camp details, and regulations are summarized from the National Park Service’s Big South Fork horseback-riding guide. For local trip-planning ideas, see the Go Fentress equestrian guide. Always confirm current conditions with the park before you ride.