Once heavily worked for its abundant natural resources, the Big South Fork's fantastic natural geological formations are again blanketed by lush vegetation. This vast wilderness stretching into Tennessee for a total of 113,000 acres is an outdoor lover's paradise, with a variety of recreational opportunities. The terrain is the rugged, mountainous forestland of the Cumberland Plateau. Some rapids, such as Angel Falls and Devils Jump, should always be portaged. There are 150 miles of marked hiking trails in the Big South Fork.
Numerous overlooks offer breathtaking views of the rocky gorge and cascading river.
Trail information and maps are available at the visitor center at Bandy Creek. It can be accessed from interstate 75 at several locations. The area is most easily reached by car. Southbound on I-75 take KY 461 south to KY 80, take 80 west to U. S. 27, take 27 south to Oneida and follow TN 297 west into the park. From I-75 northbound, take TN 63 west to U.S. 27, take 27 north to Oneida and follow TN 297 west into the park.