Bark Camp Creek Cascades

Map of Bark Camp Trail, Cumberland Falls Region, Whitley County, KY

Map of Bark Camp Trail, Cumberland Falls Region, Whitley County, KY

Elevation Profile of Bark Camp Trail, Cumberland Falls Region, Whitley County, KY

Elevation Profile of Bark Camp Trail, Cumberland Falls Region, Whitley County, KY

Overview. The cascades of Bark Camp Creek are a fantastic destination that can be enjoyed year-round. The hike follows the trail on the north side of the creek with rock walls and wet weather waterfalls lining the north side of the trail. Pack a lunch, pick a rock, and enjoy the view.

Route Type | Out and Back
Total Distance | 5.3 miles
Overall Difficulty | Moderate
US Forest Service Map of Bark Camp Trail

GPS Waypoints
Trailhead | 36.904386, -84.281194
Bark Camp Creek Cascades | 36.907158, -84.305133

Trailhead. Roadside parking is available near the trailhead that can fill-up quickly. Be sure to park only on one side of the road to allow traffic to flow safely. [map]

Trail navigation. The trail leaves from the north side of Bark Camp Creek that flows below the road. Follow the marked trail keeping the creek to your left and rock walls on your right. Pass at least three wet weather waterfalls on the cliffline to your right before reaching the Sheltowee Trace footbridge. Continue straight ahead here past a campsite before beginning to hear the series of cascades below. To reach the cascades, you’ll turn left to descend steeply to the viewing area that is about three-tenths of a mile from the Cumberland River. Retrace your steps to return to the trailhead.

CAUTION - Poisonous snakes. Timber rattlesnakes and copperheads can be found in the region. Stay alert on the trail, as snakes are commonly found taking in the warmth of the trail. Give them a wide berth or wait for them to move off the trail.

CAUTION - Bears. Black bears are growing in number throughout Daniel Boone National Forest. Be sure to follow bear safety precautions. [Be Bear Aware by US Forest Service]

Bark Camp Trailhead, Cumberland Falls Region, Whitley County, KY

Bark Camp Trailhead, Cumberland Falls Region, Whitley County, KY

Bark Camp Creek, Cumberland Falls Region, Whitley County, KY

Bark Camp Creek, Cumberland Falls Region, Whitley County, KY

Bark Camp Creek Cascades, Cumberland Falls Region, Whitley County, KY

Bark Camp Creek Cascades, Cumberland Falls Region, Whitley County, KY