Big Creek Ramp

**Location & Access:** Big Creek is a public boat ramp located in Wiborg, McCreary County, providing access to the Big South Fork Cumberland River. To reach the ramp, take KY 1651 south of Whitley City, follow KY 92 west to the bridge over Big South Fork, then turn left on KY 1363 and take the immediate left under the bridge.

**Paddling Opportunities:** This access point serves as a launch for both day trips and longer floats on the Big South Fork. The area offers scenic paddling with varied water conditions—beginners and families can enjoy the 8-mile mostly flatwater section from Yamacraw (upstream) to the Alum Ford Boat Ramp, while more experienced paddlers can explore longer stretches. The river passes through the Beaver Creek Wilderness area, known for towering sandstone cliffs, natural arches, and scenic beauty. Water levels and conditions vary seasonally, so check current conditions before heading out.

**Nearby Resources:** Two reservable campgrounds are located within 10 miles—Alum Ford Campground and Blue Heron Campground—making this a convenient base for multi-day paddling trips. The site is non-reservable and operated as a public facility within the Daniel Boone National Forest area.

View Guide with MapTowering sandstone cliffs, natural arches and rippling streams are some of the special features that led to the designation of this 4,877-acre area as a wilderness in 1975. It is located on Stearns District of the Daniel Boone National Forest.The wilderness provides visitors a place where they are free to explore nature's solitude and scenic beauty. No motorized or...

View Guide with MapTowering sandstone cliffs, natural arches and rippling streams are some of the special features that led to the designation of this 4,877-acre area as a wilderness in 1975. It is located on Stearns District of the Daniel Boone National Forest.The wilderness provides visitors a place where they are free to explore nature's solitude and scenic beauty. No motorized or mechanized equipment is allowed.The wilderness is remote and the terrain is rugged. Several trails occur throughout the area, but be prepared for strenuous hikes. Much of the area is nestled below spectacular sandstone cliffs. In keeping with the wilderness concept, signage is kept to a minimum. You should not expect trail signs or markers to guide you.Primitive camping is permitted in the Beaver Creek Wilderness as long as you remain 300 feet away from any road or stream and out of site from any trail. Before becoming a wilderness, this area was settled as a small coal mining town during the early 1900s. Signs of the past remain visible with old roads, stone fencing, exotic shrubs and grave sites scattered throughout the area. Over time, nature is slowly erasing some of these signs that man left behind.Note: Cell phone communications and emergency rescue services may be limited in the wilderness.

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