Big South Fork - Base Camping / Dayhiking

BIG SOUTH FORK Camping/Hiking:

Where: Big South Fork National River & Rec. Area, Oneida TN

What: Bandy Creek base camping and day hiking

GPS: Google Maps: search for Bandy Creek Campground
(approx. 240 miles from Cincinnati, allow 4 hours)

Group Size: 12 (2 campsites: D36, D37 Fri, Sat and Sun nights).

Cost: approx $20 per person to cover campsites and firewood (will collect around the campfire - final cost depends on number attending and firewood amount).

Car Pooling: On your own, use Meetup to ask for a ride or offer a ride
Communication: Once I know who is attending, I’ll ask for your cell phone number so I can set up a group chat the day before the trip.

Campsites D36 and D37 are on Loop D (the only loop open in winter) and are near the bathhouse (nice restrooms, great showers, water spigot nearby, sink for washing dishes). So far, the restrooms, etc are open, even with the Govt shutdown - but if that changes I will post here.

We will be doing day hikes - 7 miles to 9 miles per day (last day will be shorter to allow for drive time back home) - Day hike destinations will be posted later and may be changed when we get there depending on trail and weather conditions.

Everyone is on their own for food, cooler, and ice. Campsites have a picnic table and grill. Also, I will be bringing a gas grill and charcoal grill which I will be willing to share. I will have a large cooler for anyone who forgets about cooler and ice. The camp store has ice plus limited grocery items. (in addition to firewood).

Some of the hikes may have water crossings so carry water shoes with your day pack.

Participants on this trip should have all of their own camping gear and food. If you have any questions about what you need to bring, you can email me using Meetup, or call/text me at 513-608-2921.

TRIP RULES:

1. Well behaved dogs are welcome but must remain on leash.
2. Please only RSVP “yes” if you actually plan to attend as space is limited on this trip.
3. Cost: The cost of gas to be shared with your driver.
4. Difficulty level: Moderate.
5. Distance: Day hikes will vary between 7 miles and 9 miles
6. Pace: Moderate (we usually break up into hares and turtles).
7. Travel time: About 4 hours driving time from Cincinnati
8. The trip limit and RSVP deadline can change without notice.
9. PLEASE READ: The trip leader is guided by the doctrine of assumed risk by all participants: you are responsible for knowing the risks of camping/hiking and agree to assume those risks. Full disclosure: I am not a professional hiking, backpacking or mountaineering guide - participate in this activity at your own risk!

If you have any questions....contact Terry. (cell 513-608-2921)