Kentucky park closures & advisories

National Park Service

Paving work will begin at 6:00 a.m. on July 14. A lane closure will be in effect on the roadway between the visitor center and Bartlett Park.

Updated Jul 13, 2026

National Park Service

Work to replace the Little Yellow Creek Bridge on Bartlett Park Road has begun. Bartlett Park remains open and accessible, but visitors will see and hear construction activities. The road and areas south of the bridge, including Marsee Cemetery, will not be accessible during construction.

Updated Mar 20, 2026

National Park Service

Due to a yellow jacket nest, the bathrooms at Sugar Run Picnic shelter are closed

Updated Jul 23, 2026

National Park Service

Due to mechanical issues with the cave elevator, the Accessible Tour is currently unavailable. Please check back for updates or call the visitor center at (270) 758-2180.

Updated May 6, 2026

National Park Service

Brewster Bridge Road in Big South Fork NRRA will temporarily close for repair and re-pavement beginning on Monday, June 29. The road was heavily damaged from significant rain events in 2022 and 2023. The area boat launch and day use area will be inaccessible during the project.

Updated Jun 25, 2026Official notice ↗

National Park Service

Currently, the use of drones is prohibited at Big South Fork and all National Parks. Detailed information about the policy is available...

Updated Dec 31, 2025Official notice ↗

National Park Service

Big South Fork NRRA has announced the temporary closure of the historic Blue Heron Tipple Bridge, effective immediately in the interest of visitor safety. A recent bridge safety inspection conducted by the Federal Highway Administration identified structural issues specific to the pier’s bridge decking which is now lea…

Updated Sep 29, 2025Official notice ↗

National Park Service

Firewood ban is in effect for the park. Only firewood from the surrounding counties of Scott, Morgan, Pickett, and Fentress, in Tennessee, and McCreary in Kentucky, can be brought into the park. Firewood is for sale or you may use dead and down wood.

Updated Apr 20, 2016Official notice ↗

National Park Service

Black bears call Big South Fork NRRA home. Help keep them healthy and safe by storing all food, cooking items, feed, cosmetics and coolers properly stored when at campgrounds or in the backcountry.

Updated Apr 12, 2016Official notice ↗

National Park Service

Beginning on July 10, 2026, temporary lane restrictions may occur on Bartlett Park Road and on Pinnacle Road, near the Visitor Center and near the turnoff to Bartlett Park, due to a road construction project.

Updated Jul 9, 2026

National Park Service

Visitor Access to Fort Donelson NB Park Lands: Pedestrian access is from dawn to dusk. Automobile access to Fort Donelson NB Park Roads is from 8:00 am - 8:00 pm.

Updated May 23, 2026

National Park Service

The Old Guides Trail, Heritage Trail, Sunset Point Trail and areas of the Sinkhole Trail are currently closed due to a trail rehabilitation project.

Updated May 5, 2025

National Park Service

Reservations are strongly recommended. Reservations are the only way to ensure a spot is available for your party. Please plan accordingly by visiting Recreation.gov to secure your tickets in advance. Availability of walk-up tickets is not guaranteed.

Updated Aug 2, 2021Official notice ↗