The Big South Fork Area is full of history and legends.

"Beaty's Independent Scouts" is one.  During the Civil War, David "Tinker Dave Beaty" was the leader.  Though he tried to stay neutral in the war, Scott Bledsoe, leader in the Confederate army, forced Beaty to make a choice.  To do this, Bledsoe took things from Beaty's family.  Beaty decided to fight with the Union against the south.  Since he was well-acquainted in the area and it's many hiding places, he become impossible to catch.  Beaty was killed April 1st, 1864 by Champ Ferguson, but lived until August 22, 1875.  He is buried in the Lacy-Beaty Cemetary off the Boatland Rd and Highway 52.

Camp Ferguson was a Confederate and the most notorious of the rebel leaders including Tinker Dave.  His group was organized in 1862.  Beaty and Ferguson were responsible for almost all the Fentress County fighting.  Before the war Champ was in the Jamestown Jail, arrested for the murder of Deputy sheriff at Chanute.  He was able to plea bargain his way out by agreeing to fight Tinker Dave.  Champ was tried as a war criminal after the war and hung on October 20, 1865 in Nashville.  His daughter and wife watched.  He is buried just north of Sparta, in French's Cemetery, White County.


Reference: Historic Civil War Era and Scenic Tour Fentress County

Welcome to Big South Fork Trails

Welcome!

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area located atop the Cumberland Plateau in Jamestown, TN, you will find something for everyone!


Explore this beautiful wilderness by horseback riding, hiking, tubing, rafting, canoeing, kayaking, backpacking, walking, hunting, fishing or mountain biking.  Enjoy the trails, hunting, fishing,  water activities,  fabulous overlooks, rock formations, shopping, relaxing and so much more!

With over 200 miles of blazed and well maintained horse trails within the park, you won't run out of places to ride.  There are many horse camps in the area ready to accommodate you and your equine friends. 

This blog is for folks that have visited the Big South Fork NRRA and would like to share their adventures with others.