Blue Heron Campground

About

Blue Heron Campground is situated in the Kentucky portion of Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, a vast 125,000-acre expanse of rugged Cumberland Plateau terrain featuring rocky gorges, forested plateaus, and pristine streams. The campground offers 45 sites that accommodate both RV and tent camping, all equipped with 20 and 30 amp electric service and water hookups. Sites are spacious with plenty of shade, each featuring a picnic table and fire ring. The campground provides modern amenities including flush toilets, hot showers, and a dump station. Site 29 is ADA accessible and located near the bathhouse. The area is known for its black bear population, and proper food storage is required at all times. Located 9 miles west of Stearns off Highway 742, the campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the Recreation Area's extensive trail network for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The Big South Fork river is a short drive away for fishing opportunities. Nearby attractions include the Blue Heron Mine (Mine 18), a reconstructed historic coal mining community with audio presentations from former residents, and the Big South Fork Scenic Railway in Stearns. Additional recreational opportunities can be found at Daniel Boone National Forest and Cumberland Falls State Resort Park.

Directions

Exit I-75 onto Highway 92 at Williamsburg, Exit 11. Turn right on Highway 92 for approximately 20 miles. Continue straight across Highway 27 at the 4-way stop light onto Highway 1651. Follow signs to Blue Heron and turn left on Mine 18 Road (Highway 742). The campground is on the right before reaching Blue Heron Interpretive Center at the end of the road.