Join us on Saturday, April 11, as the National Park Service joins forces with TCWP and East Tennessee Whitewater Club for a river-based cleanup at Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area.

News Release Date: April 7, 2026

Contact: Park Headquarters, (423) 569-9778

ONEIDA, Tenn. — On April 11, Big South Fork NRRA will host a river-based cleanup in partnership with Tennessee Citizens for Wilderness Planning and East Tennessee Whitewater Club. The park will determine which section of stream to paddle based on river flow levels and other factors.

Paddlers should meet at Station Camp Boat Launch at 9:30 a.m. ET. Experienced whitewater paddlers proficient in Class III whitewater are welcome to participate, but must provide their own whitewater boat, personal floatation device, helmet, and appropriate river attire, and sufficient food and water for a full day’s river trip.

Sign-ups are not required to participate.

Directions to Station Camp Boat Launch: From Bandy Creek Road turn (left) east onto Route 297 for approximately 8.5 miles to junction of 297 and Station Camp Road. Turn left onto Station Camp Road at Terry & Terry Store and drive 8.1 miles to river.

From Highway 27 in Oneida take TN Route 297 west six miles to the Terry & Terry Store. Continue straight onto Station Camp Road at Terry & Terry Store and drive 8.1 miles to river.

For additional information, please call Park Headquarters at 423-579-9778.

Participants should bring sufficient food and water for a full day’s river trip. This event may be cancelled or modified based on weather conditions and river levels.

For more information about the event, contact Mark Bevelhimer at 865-679-9242 or at mbevelhimer@gmail.com.