Bear Creek Campground - Ky

Star3.83
77 reviews
4564 Leatherwood Road, Oneida, TN 37841, USA

Quick Facts

1,306 ft

Price

$30 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

21 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Bear Creek Campground - Ky
$30.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates range from $30 to $35 per night during the peak season from April 1 to November 30. Reservation fees are non-refundable and can vary...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$35.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
(423) 286-7275
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What Campers Say

3.83

Mixed Reviews

Based on 77 reviews

28 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspacioushikingfriendly

"User reviews are mixed, highlighting excellent facilities and cleanliness but expressing concerns about maintenance of horse stalls and trails. The location is praised for its peace, spacious sites, and access to trails."

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Campground Map

4564 Leatherwood Road, Oneida, TN 37841, USA

Bear Creek Campground - Ky

4564 Leatherwood Road, Oneida, TN 37841, USA

Driving directionsFor detailed directions, please visit: http://www.nps.gov/biso/planyourvisit/directions.htm
The road has a gravel stretch that is mostly one lane for 8 miles, which can be annoying for large rigs but is manageable. The road is well-maintained with no potholes, although there is one creek area with a small amount of water and a dip that may cause minor bumps on the dirt road.
Nearby places
Oneida, TN - Approximately 8 miles
Nearby supplies
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Best Time to Camp at Bear Creek Campground - Ky

From April through October, Bear Creek Horse Camp transforms into an outdoor paradise where perfect camping weather reigns supreme. Spring arrives with wildflowers dotting the trails and temperatures that invite all-day exploration. Summer brings warm days ideal for creek crossings and shaded forest rides, while autumn paints the Cumberland Plateau in breathtaking golds and crimsons. Though winter's chill keeps most campers away, the hearty few who brave the cold are rewarded with crystalline air and landscapes transformed by frost into something magical.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Open in summer but reviews note increased mosquitoes and ticks; weather OK but pests reduce comfort.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Autumn foliage described as a 'symphony'; fall highlighted as ideal in seasonal reviews.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring noted for wildflowers and mild temps; reviewers single out spring as ideal.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed outside Apr 1–Nov 30; winter camping not available.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: April 1 - November 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open for reservations from April 1 to November 30 during peak season.
  • Current Alerts: Temporary partial closure of Twin Arches Loop Trail for stair and ladder rehabilitation as of May 13, 2025.

About Bear Creek Campground - Ky

Nestled within the Kentucky wilderness of Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Bear Creek Horse Camp beckons equestrian enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This hidden gem seamlessly blends the romance of traditional woods camping with the comfort of modern amenities. Picture yourself unwinding after a day on the trails, enjoying a hot shower before settling by your campfire, knowing your horse rests comfortably in its own tie-stall just steps away. With sites thoughtfully designed to accommodate both RVs and tents, plus convenient electric hookups and flush toilets, Bear Creek proves that adventure doesn't mean sacrificing comfort.
Bear Creek Horse Camp accommodates both RV and tent campers. Sites are equipped with modern facilities and tie stalls for horses.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights, and 30 nights total at the campground within each year.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

The campground provides a range of recreational opportunities, including horseback riding, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Nearby attractions enhance the experience, such as the Blue Heron Mine outdoor museum.
HikingNumerous trails are accessible from the campground. Trails vary in difficulty, with some being muddy and rocky. Visitors recommend horse shoes or boots for rocky terrain. Trails include loops like the Bear Creek Loop, which is easier, and more challenging routes with steep sections.
BikingTrails are available for mountain biking, though no specific details about the terrain or difficulty are provided.
Wildlife viewingCampers have reported wildlife sightings and emphasize following strict food storage rules to avoid attracting bears.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBlack bears are common in the area, and proper food storage is strictly enforced. Trails may feature steep places, mud, and rocky terrain, which could pose challenges for horses and riders.
Active AlertsTemporary partial closure of Twin Arches Loop Trail for stair and ladder rehabilitation as of May 13, 2025.
Food Storage RequiredLockers measure approximately 29" deep x 38" wide x 43" tall and are designed to store items with food odors to deter wildlife.

Weather at Bear Creek Campground - Ky

Reviews

3.8
77 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Bear Creek Campground - Ky has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, highlighting excellent facilities and cleanliness but expressing concerns about maintenance of horse stalls and trails. The location is praised for its peace, spacious sites, and access to trails.
Review Summaries
Based on 77 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean and heated bathrooms with good accessibility, spacious and private sites, great trails for hiking and horseback riding, picnic tables and fire rings at each site, and friendly rangers.
Based on 77 reviews

Common Concerns

Maintenance issues with horse stalls, poorly maintained trails with mud and rocks, inconsistent enforcement of rules by rangers, and lack of quiet hours enforcement.
Based on 77 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own buckets for water and feed, use horse shoes or boots for rocky trails, ensure proper food storage to prevent bear encounters, and prepare for self-sufficiency as the area is remote.
Based on 77 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are highlighted as ideal times for camping due to mild weather and stunning fall foliage. Summer reviews mention increased mosquito and tick activity.
Based on 77 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Bathrooms were spotless and heated, hot water was very hot, water pressure was great." - Leandra Collier. "Trails were a lot of fun, but I’d recommend shoes on your horses for rocks and gravel." -...
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Based on 77 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 011: Mixed reviews; praised for cleanliness and spaciousness but criticized for poorly maintained trails. Site 013: Complaints about loud neighbors and lack of quiet hours. Site 002: Described...
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Based on 77 reviews

Accessibility Features

Positive feedback highlights wheelchair accessibility of bathrooms, showers, and campsites.
Based on 77 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews about pet-related policies or experiences.
Based on 77 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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