Located in Tennessee, the Obed National Scenic River is a picturesque and historically rich destination that offers visitors a wide range of things to do and explore. Situated in the Cumberland Plateau, the river encompasses roughly 45 miles of pristine waterways, rugged gorge scenery, and abundant recreational opportunities.
With a history dating back to prehistoric times, the Obed National Scenic River has cultural significance. Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Creek, once inhabited the area, leaving behind traces of their presence. Later, European settlers arrived and utilized the river for transportation and trade.
Today, the Obed National Scenic River is popular among outdoor enthusiasts for its diverse range of activities. Hiking is a popular choice, with numerous trails cutting through the surrounding woodlands and offering breathtaking views of the river and surrounding areas. The most famous hike is the challenging but rewarding 14-mile-long Obed Wild and Scenic River Trail, which showcases the scenic beauty of the area.
Furthermore, the river provides an excellent setting for fishing and boating adventures. Anglers can cast their lines in search of smallmouth bass, rock bass, and other species, while boaters can navigate the meandering waterways and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Canoeing and kayaking are also popular, allowing visitors to explore the striking rock formations and calm pools.
Aside from outdoor activities, the Obed National Scenic River is also home to several fascinating attractions nearby. One such attraction is Frozen Head State Park, which offers opportunities for camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Moreover, the nearby city of Oak Ridge houses the American Museum of Science and Energy, where visitors can learn about the Manhattan Project and the city's historical role during World War II.
In summary, the Obed National Scenic River in Tennessee is a captivating destination that combines natural beauty, historical significance, and a variety of recreational activities. Whether visitors are seeking adventure on the water, exploring the numerous hiking trails, or discovering the area's intriguing past, this scenic river offers something for everyone.
Located in the state of Tennessee, the Obed National Scenic River is nestled amidst the picturesque Cumberland Plateau region. This remarkable river encompasses over 45 miles of flowing waters, entrenched gorges, and pristine forests. Its location is defined by rugged terrain, with steep cliffs, rock formations, and towering bluffs that adorn the landscape. The Obed National Scenic River offers a captivating experience, where visitors can witness the mighty river cutting through the surrounding sandstone and shale formations, creating a breathtaking combination of natural beauty and geological wonders. Whether it is exploring the stunning riverbanks or admiring the scenic vistas, the Obed National Scenic River's geographical location provides an awe-inspiring environment for all to discover.
208 N. Maiden StreetWartburg, TN 37887Driving DirectionsPhone: 4233466294Web: Link
The best time to visit Obed National Scenic River would be in the months of May, June, July, and August. During this period, the average maximum temperatures range from 79°F to 88°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average minimum temperatures range from 57°F to 68°F, ensuring comfortable conditions for exploring the river. Precipitation during these months averages between 4.1 in to 5.7 in, which is relatively moderate. Overall, the months of May through August offer the most ideal weather conditions for visiting Obed National Scenic River.
Some of the activities you can do in Obed National Scenic River are: Astronomy Stargazing Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Camping Climbing Rock Climbing Hiking Canoe or Kayak Camping Fishing Hunting and Gathering Paddling Freshwater Fishing
Learn about these topics at Obed National Scenic River: Animals Birds Geology Night Sky Trails Watersheds Forests and Woodlands Scenic Views Deciduous Forests
The visitor center has free WiFi, and offers exhibits on the river, its inhabitants, the cultural history of the area, and the recreational opportunities that the park provides. A small bookstore is also included in the visitor center, which is open daily from 9:00-5:00 pm (ET), daily.
The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Obed Visitor Center.
The Rock Creek Campground, located adjacent to the Nemo area of the Obed Wild & Scenic River, offers 11 spots for campers. A $15 per night fee is charged and reservations are required. You may obtain your reservation by visiting www.recreation.gov and searching for "Rock Creek Campground - TN". Reservations are site-specific. The campground has grills and primitive toilet facilities, but no running water.
Fees (US$): 15.00 (Walk-in, tent-only site)
Total Campsites: 11
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: No water
A stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Oak Ridge - Knoxville places you in the heart of Oak Ridge, within a 10-minute walk of Oak Ridge Art Center and American Museum of Science and Energy. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-out. Planning an event in Oak Ridge? This hotel has facilities measuring 3,597 square feet (0 square meters), including conference space. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 215 S Illinois Ave, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830
Web: Link
With a stay at Super 8 by Wyndham Kingston in Kingston, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Fort Southwest Point and Tennessee River. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 905 N Kentucky St, Kingston, Tennessee 37763
Web: Link
A stay at Comfort Inn Oak Ridge - Knoxville places you in the heart of Oak Ridge, within a 15-minute walk of American Museum of Science and Energy and Oak Ridge Art Center. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Oak Ridge? This hotel has facilities measuring 1250 square feet (116 square meters), including a conference center. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 433 S Rutgers Ave, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830
Web: Link
In the heart of Oak Ridge, Hampton Inn Oak Ridge Knoxville is within a 5-minute drive of American Museum of Science and Energy and Children's Museum of Oak Ridge. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Oak Ridge? This hotel has facilities measuring 625 square feet (56 square meters), including a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 208 S Illinois Ave, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830
Web: Link
Located in Oak Ridge, Quality Inn Oak Ridge is within a 5-minute drive of American Museum of Science and Energy and Oak Ridge Playhouse. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Planning an event in Oak Ridge? This hotel has facilities measuring 300 square feet (27 square meters), including a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 216 S Rutgers Ave, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830
Web: Link
When you stay at Lakeview Inn in Kingston, you'll be in a provincial park, within a 5-minute drive of Watts Bar Lake and Fort Southwest Point. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, laundry facilities, and an elevator. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1200 N Kentucky St, Kingston, Tennessee 37763
Web: Link
Located in Oak Ridge, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oak Ridge, an IHG Hotel is in a rural location, within a 15-minute walk of Oak Ridge Art Center and American Museum of Science and Energy. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 114 Tulsa Road, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830
Web: Link
When you stay at Ornl Guest House in Oak Ridge, you'll be 8 minutes by car from Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Featured amenities include a computer station, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 8640 Nano Center Drive, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830
Web: Link
With a stay at Days Inn by Wyndham Oak Ridge Knoxville in Oak Ridge, you'll be within a 10-minute walk of Oak Ridge Art Center and American Museum of Science and Energy. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 206 S Illinois Ave, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830
Web: Link
With a stay at TownePlace Suites by Marriott Knoxville Oak Ridge in Oak Ridge, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of American Museum of Science and Energy and Oak Ridge Playhouse. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. This hotel has 2 meeting rooms available for events. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 300 South Rutgers Avenue, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830
Web: Link
| Date issued | Details |
|---|---|
| 2026-04-15 | Temporary Restriction on Campfires in the Backcountry in Effect Due to drought conditions, there is a temporary restriction on campfires in the backcountry. Building, maintaining, attending, or using any campfire, ground fire, or cooking fire that uses wood or charcoal is prohibited. Use of backpacking stoves that utilize pre-packaged compressed gas canisters is still permitted. Carry extra water as springs may be running low or dry. More |
| 2026-02-09 | Obed Adaptive Outdoor Rock-Climbing Program, March 28 Obed Wild and Scenic River will be conducting an adaptive climbing program on Saturday, March 28, from 10 am to 3 pm ET. The program is designed for people with a limb difference or mobility challenge, with the goal of improving the accessibility of rock climbing for a wider range of visitors. More |
| 2026-02-02 | Obed Wild and Scenic River Seeks Volunteers for Cumberland Trail Workday The National Park Service invites the public to join the annual Cumberland Trail workday on Feb. 14. Obed Wild and Scenic River, Tennessee Citizens for Wilderness Planning and Cumberland Trail State Park will host the event. More |
| 2025-11-17 | Rare Species Discovered in the Obed Wild & Scenic River A new mussel species has been discovered in the Obed Wild & Scenic River. More |
| 2025-09-30 | Tourism to Obed WSR Contributes $5.5 Million to Local Economy A new National Park Service report shows that 262,000 visitors came to Obed Wild & Scenic River in 2024 spent $5.5 million in communities near the park. That spending supported the local area. More |
| 2025-09-15 | Obed Wild & Scenic River Announces 2025 Photo Contest Winners The National Park Service (NPS) announces the winners of the 2025 Obed Wild and Scenic River photo contest. More |