Planning Your OHV Trip to North Cumberland WMA
Trails, Maps, Camping & Local Tips
Planning a trip to ride the North Cumberland Wildlife Management Area? Here’s everything you need to know—from where to ride and stay to permits, terrain, and local tips. With over 600 miles of trails across the mountains of East Tennessee, this is one of the largest and most diverse OHV trail systems in the country.
WHERE YOU’LL BE RIDING
Explore the North Cumberland Trail System: Tucked deep in the Cumberland Mountains of East Tennessee lies one of the most expansive off-road destinations in the country: the North Cumberland Wildlife Management Area (NCWMA). Spanning nearly 200,000 acres across five counties, this system offers something rare—the freedom to ride, explore, and experience true mountain terrain without feeling boxed in. For riders, this isn’t just a trail system. It’s a full-blown backcountry adventure.
WHAT MAKES IT UNIQUE: Why Riders Choose North Cumberland
The first thing you notice isn’t just the size—it’s the variety. 600+ miles of OHV trails with terrain from easy gravel roads to technical rock climbs, ridge lines, elevation changes, and creek crossings. This is an interconnected trail systems so you can travel to each unit right from your campsite. This isn’t a loop-and-repeat kind of place. You can ride all weekend and never see the same trail twice.
MAIN RIDING AREAS: Trail System Breakdown
Terrain That Keeps You Coming BackNorth Cumberland doesn’t ride the same twice.One minute you’re cruising a ridge line with mountain views stretching for miles. The next, you’re climbing steep grades, navigating rocks, or easing through a creek crossing.Expect:Hard-packed forest roadsRocky technical sectionsMud, ruts, and hill climbsScenic overlooks and waterfallsSome trails are smooth and fast. Others stay raw and rugged—that balance is what keeps riders coming back.
North Cumberland is divided into four major units, each with its own personality:
Royal Blue Unit
Most well-known by name
Scenic overlooks + moderate trails
Great for all skill levels
GPS required
Sundquist Unit
Most frequently ridden
Only unit with marked trails & Paper maps available
Great mix of terrain-More mud than other units
Scenic Overlooks, waterfalls and creek crossings
Elk Viewing Stations
New River Unit
Less crowded
Moderate to difficult trails
GPS required
Places to swim
Ed Carter (Tackett Creek)
More technical riding
Creek crossings, tighter trails
Best for experienced riders
Overlooks, waterfalls, rockier terrain
WHERE TO STAY
Where you stay can completely change your trip. If you’ve ever had to load up after a long ride, you already know the difference. At Stinking Creek Campground, you can:
-
Ride straight from camp-Skip the trailer completely
-
Access multiple trail systems easily
When the riding is done, you’re not coming back to a parking lot.
-
Shaded, wooded sites. Creekside relaxation areas.Firepits and space to unwind.
-
Cabins available for non-RV guests
-
Family-owned and operated
It’s the kind of place where the riding is only half the story.
PERMITS & RULES: What You Need to Know Before You Ride
Before heading out, make sure you’re prepared:
-
TWRA permit or hunting license required
-
Only Sundquist is marked and mapped on paper—GPS is needed for others. We have paper maps for you in the office free of charge
-
Blaze orange is required during hunting seasons-we will post the specifics each year on our facebook page as season approaches. It's usually October-January.
-
Helmets required for riders under 18
-
Alcohol is not permitted on trails
-
Open 365 days and 24 hours
-
Conditions can change quickly depending on weather and trail use.
-
Water, snacks and a lighter are handy if your trip ends up longer than expected
-
Always head out with a full tank of gas
FOOD, GAS & SUPPLIES
Nearby towns offer basic grocery options for supplies and camp needs.
-
Williamsburg, KY is 35 minutes to the North and has Walmart, Restaurants, the Mint casino and Kentucky Splash Water Park
-
Caryville, Jacksboro, LaFollette (all three towns run in a line and can be considered the same place) are 22 miles to the south at exit 134. This is "town" for us and has Walmart, grocery stores, restaurants, auto parts, etc. Note: Jacksboro Walmart will deliver directly to the campground! Use our zip code 37847 and it should pull up the correct store.
-
There are a few restaurants nearby that are accessible by trail. Talk to us when you arrive and we can give you directions.
Gas Stations- We carry 93 non-ethanol fuel. Exit 141, which is 3 miles to the south, is a truck stop and has two big gas stations and some fast food options. You can reach this exit by trail or road.
WHY PEOPLE KEEP COMING BACK
It’s not just the miles—it’s the feeling. The freedom to exploreThe variety of terrainTrails that challenge and reward. North Cumberland isn’t polished—and that’s exactly why it stands out.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
If you’re looking for a place where you can ride all day, relax by the fire at night, and do it all again the next morning—this is it.