Parks

The Obed Wild and Scenic River looks much the same today as it did when the first white settlers strolled its banks in the late 1700s. While meagerly populated due to poor farming soil, the river was a hospitable fishing and hunting area for trappers and pioneers. Today, the Obed stretches along the Cumberland Plateau and offers visitors a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities.

Map showing location of park.

A woman and a dog sitting in the center of a giant rock formation arch looking forward.

Obed Wild & Scenic River Announces 2025 Photo Contest Winners

2025-09-15

The National Park Service (NPS) announces the winners of the 2025 Obed Wild and Scenic River photo contest.

Adaptive Outdoor Rock-Climbing Program, September 27

2025-09-08

An adaptive climbing program is scheduled for Saturday, September 27, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM (ET). The program is designed for people with an amputation or limb difference, with the goal of improving accessibility to climbing for visitors with mobility challenges.

A man in the front with a tool working on a trail.

Volunteers Welcome at Obed Adopt-a-Crag Event on September 13

2025-09-05

In cooperation with the East Tennessee Climbers Coalition (ETCC), the Obed Wild and Scenic River will host the park’s annual Adopt-a-Crag event on Saturday, September 13.

Bright orange Eastern Newt standing in wet ground.

Obed Art in the Park Reception & NPS Birthday Celebration

2025-08-15

In celebration of the National Park Service turning 109 years old, Obed Wild & Scenic River will host a combined birthday party and 14th annual photo contest reception on Friday, August 22 at the Obed Visitor Center, located at 208 North Maiden Street in downtown Wartburg. The festivities will begin at 5:00 PM (ET). The festivities will include light refreshments,

A group of kayakers in the water at obed and a child rock climbing

Obed Announces Rock Climbing and Paddling Program for Sixth Grade Homeschooled Students

2025-08-13

Fourteen years ago, with funding from a National Park Foundation Impact Grant, Obed Wild and Scenic River launched its “National Park in Your Backyard” program for Morgan County sixth grade students. As in previous years, the opportunity to participate in this program will be extended to sixth grade students that are homeschooled or who attend schools other than public schools.