Tennessee’s Secret Spot For Photographers

There are always two people in every picture: the photographer and the viewer.
— Ansel Adams

Sitting on the Tennessee and Kentucky border is a secret playground for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is home to some of the best scenic views, natural geological formations, and outdoor recreational activities in Tennessee. What makes the Big South Fork so unique for photographers is the wide range of subjects and scenic backdrops within its borders.

We’ve put together a list of the top reasons why the Big South Fork is Tennessee's Secret Spot For Photographers:

 
photo by LD Coffey via Big South Fork NRRA

photo by LD Coffey via Big South Fork NRRA

BEAUTIFUL WATERFALLS

Yahoo Falls, Slave Falls, and Angel Falls are among the top must-see waterfalls in the Big South Fork.


photo by Josh Bandy via Big South Fork NRRA

photo by Josh Bandy via Big South Fork NRRA

AWE-INSPIRING OVERLOOKS

East Rim Overlook, Sunset Overlook and Devil's Jump Overlook are just a few of the many overlooks to capture awe-inspiring shots. (Also be sure to check out the most unknown overlook, Bronco Overlook!)


photo by Jeff White via Big South Fork NRRA

photo by Jeff White via Big South Fork NRRA

PERFECT LOCATION

The Big South Fork is less than three hours from both Nashville and Knoxville, making it an ideal location for local photographers in Tennessee.


Need a Close Place To Stay?

Find a relaxing cabin rental of your choice at Laurel Fork Rustic Retreat, which borders the Big South Fork, giving you direct access to some of the best trails and scenic views in the park!

Check availability and BOOK NOW


photo by Bill Fultz via Big South Fork NRRA

photo by Bill Fultz via Big South Fork NRRA

SANDSTONE ARCHES

Twin Arches, Needle Arch, Split Bow Arch, and Yahoo Arch are just some of the many majestic natural arches to shoot throughout the park.


photo by Peggy Yaeger via Big South Fork NRRA

photo by Peggy Yaeger via Big South Fork NRRA

ABUNDANT FLORA & FAUNA

Explore rich plant life, full of all colors and textures, and a wide array of animal life, including black bear and 160 species of birds.


photo by Michael Foster via Big South Fork NRRA

photo by Michael Foster via Big South Fork NRRA

HISTORY & CULTURE

From historic coal mining communities to railroad systems, this region is drenched in history.


photo by Sarah Dunlap via Big South Fork NRRA

photo by Sarah Dunlap via Big South Fork NRRA

OUTDOOR RECREATION

Horseback riding, mountain biking, and rock climbing are just some of the many outdoor activities to capture.

Grab your camera and let your creative side go wild at the Big South Fork!

 

*Filming and Photography Permit may be required.