Posted 2007-09-05 7:45 AM (#67211 - in reply to #54262) Subject: RE: Big South Fork
Extreme Veteran
Posts: 326 Location: Gallatin, TN
We just got back from our first trip to Zenith and I can't say enough good things about Gary Matthews and the campground. He rode with us and we learned so much about the history of the land where we rode. My husband is a history buff so this was a real plus for him.
The campsites were all very nice. We were in sites 10 -14 and had plenty of room for all of our group. The barn was very close as was the bath house and kitchen. The bath house was very very clean and the shower stalls are of a good size.
I would not hesitate to go back. Be aware that they are not set up to take debit or credit cards so bring your check book or cash.
Posted 2007-09-05 10:54 AM (#67224 - in reply to #54262) Subject: RE: Big South Fork
Regular
Posts: 67 Location: Edinburg, Va.
Thanks to all who provided info on this area. Stayed at TrueWest for several days and then went over to East Fork. Both had alot to offer. Accessed 3 trails from TrueWest via Cumberland Valley Trailhead. Had to ride out the same trail through the private development to access the trails. Also rode several areas in the Spruce Creek development. Others in our group choose to be trailered out to different trailheads which allowed them to access different parts of the area. Rode at East Fork for 3 days and there were trails to still do. We liked the campground facilities and trail access at East Fork better but it did cost more. Took the time while we were in the area to visit most of the other campgrounds and would like to visit again and stay at different ones. Definitely worth a trip back.
Posted 2007-09-28 10:38 PM (#68557 - in reply to #54262) Subject: RE: Big South Fork
Member
Posts: 20
Location: Tennessee
We just got back last week from Big South Fork again and this time we had a great time. We stayed at "Big South Fork Lodge". The trails in the park were so nice and we were able to see so much more than our last trip.
You just went across the street from the Lodge and you were on the trail head. The camp site was clean and the stalls were nice too. They even had a restaurant if you did not want to cook.
We plan on going back soon..........................
Posted 2007-09-29 4:17 PM (#68582 - in reply to #54262) Subject: RE: Big South Fork
Regular
Posts: 85 Location: Foothills of the Smokeys
If you can get over the fact that at Bandy Creek, you must stable your horses about a quarter mile from the campground, it's by far the best place to stay at Big South Fork. The stables are safe to leave your horses, and are very nice. It is a Class A campground with level paved pads for your trailer, electric and water hookups, pick-nic table, fire ring/ grill, dump station, pool and several clean bath houses. But the best part is that it is the only camp located smack dab in the middle of the park and you can access a mulitude of trailheads without trailering. All of the "private" campgounds are bordering the park or are several miles outside of the park.
East Fork is a nice place, but is more expensive that Bandy Creek. It is a privatly owned campground. It is on the Cumberland Plateau about 30 miles from Big South Fork. It is not in Big South Fork.
Posted 2007-09-30 9:38 PM (#68640 - in reply to #68582) Subject: RE: Big South Fork
Member
Posts: 20
Location: Tennessee
Hi
We went to Bandy Creek this last visit to check it out and you are correct the campsites were really nice. The Ranger made sure we checked out the bathhouses also, he was bragging and with just cause, they were nice.
We drove across the street to the stables to check it out and they were nice also. I don't see a problem with that, you could just walk across the street for some exercise to check on the horses.
Posted 2007-10-22 3:44 PM (#69780 - in reply to #68640) Subject: RE: Big South Fork
Member
Posts: 24
Location: Owensboro, Kentucky
We just returned from Bandy Creek after spending a wonderful week at BSF. Make sure to ride to Charit Creek lodge, and on the O&W Railroad bed to the bridge crossing. It was beautiful. Also ride out to see the Eye of the Neddle. It was a great trip and the scenery is beyond words.
Big South Fork
