Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area will observe Juneteenth on Thursday, June 19, 2025, by offering a 50 percent discount on fees for use of the Bandy Creek Pool and for backcountry camping permits.

Bandy Creek pool and wading pool will open for the 2025 season on Friday, May 23, 2025, at 11:00 AM (ET).  The hours of operation will be from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays through Labor Day.

Beginning May 6, 2025, the National Park Service will initiate critical maintenance work on the Twin Arches Loop Trail in Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area. Trail crews will rehabilitate all wooden stairs and ladders along the route to improve safety and enhance the visitor experience.

Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area would like to experience your vision of the park. Use the park’s spectacular views in any season, historic sites, recreational opportunities, and diversity of life at Big South Fork and document your park as you see it. Images may show wildlife, plant life, natural landscapes, historic areas, weather, or people interacting with nature at the park. All photographs should accurately reflect the subject matter and the scene as it appeared.

There are currently business opportunities to provide food service at Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area in the Blue Heron, Kentucky area for this summer and fall. Opportunities include operation of the Blue Heron concession stand, food trucks, and food carts.