Several campgrounds near Arkabutla Lake offer alternatives to traditional RV parks with varying amenities and settings. Located in northwestern Mississippi, Arkabutla Lake sits at approximately 209 feet elevation with shorelines spanning 15,000 acres when at normal levels. Travelers seeking campsites can find options within 50 miles of the lake that range from casino-adjacent properties to riverfront locations with unique views.
What to do
Watch river traffic: At Tom Sawyer's RV Park, visitors can observe Mississippi River commerce. "Tugboats pushed barges against the current at a slower than walking pace. Trees with root balls intact floated downstream. The distant banks of the Tennessee side showed their sandy promontory," reports Greg S. The park positions campers directly on the riverbank for unusual camping views.
Visit Memphis attractions: Camping near Arkabutla Lake provides access to Memphis landmarks. "If you are Elvis fans then you will love the proximity to Graceland," notes Jeremy H. about Graceland RV Park & Campground. Families appreciate unique transportation options, with one reviewer mentioning "the opportunity to take a free pink Cadillac limo ride to Marlowe's for superb BBQ."
Agricultural experiences: The Agricenter offers additional activities beyond typical campground amenities. "The RV park has a farmers market that has a pretty good selection of local fruits, veggies and your normal farmer market fare," notes Melisa J. This makes Agricenter RV Park a practical base for visitors interested in locally-grown produce and agricultural exhibits.
What campers like
River views: Campsites with water views rank high on traveler preferences. "As evening rolled around, the beauty of this place came alive. We ate dinner in the shade due to the smart layout of the sites, and as the breeze picked up we could enjoy the scenery," shares a Tom Sawyer's RV Park visitor. The Mississippi River provides a constantly changing backdrop.
Free laundry facilities: Some RV sites near Arkabutla Lake include complimentary services. "The free laundry facilities were very clean and nice with several machines," notes Kristy J. about her extended stay at Tom Sawyer's RV Park from March through November. Clean laundry access without additional costs represents a significant value for long-term visitors.
Concrete pads: Level surfaces for large RVs matter significantly to campers. "Level, nice concrete pads. Good hookups. Workers all very pleasant," reports Deb K. about EZ Daze RV Park. Sturdy, level parking areas reduce setup time and stabilization issues for campers with larger rigs.
What you should know
Seasonal closures possible: Water levels impact campground availability in certain areas. "Only problem is if the river is over its banks, then the campground is closed. We had to keep checking to see if the river was down, campground was cleaned up and open," explains Christine U. about Tom Sawyer's RV Park.
Electrical variations: Voltage fluctuations occur at some campgrounds, requiring protection equipment. "I took a chance and ran my unit without the protector. I tried it on another pedestal in the morning and received an E2 error code. I checked my Powerdog app and it showed 142.5 volts on line 2," reports Andrew at EZ Daze RV Park.
Varied access roads: Route quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "The drive into the park is not very pretty but once in the park, it is VERY nice," explains Linda A. about Hollywood Casino RV Park - Tunica. Travelers should research approach roads, especially with larger vehicles.
Tips for camping with families
Pool availability: Swimming options differ between parks. "You may use the casino's swimming pool," notes one reviewer about Hollywood Casino RV Park. Families seeking water recreation should verify pool policies and seasonal availability before booking.
Playground conditions: Play equipment varies widely in quality between properties. "Playground is scary," mentions Claire M. about EZ Daze RV Park in a review that otherwise notes "very friendly and hospitable staff." Families with young children may want to request photos or details about recreational areas.
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer little beyond basic sites. "There is no way to ever get bored here. There is always some event, concert, play, bar, sport, etc... always!" notes a visitor to Agricenter RV Park, highlighting its location within a larger 4,500-acre park with diverse activities.
Tips from RVers
Overnight pricing: RV sites near Arkabutla Lake range significantly in cost-to-value ratio. "Full hook up, 50 amp site was $70, 63.00 with our Good Sam card which we think was a bit pricey," notes Karen about EZ Daze RV Park. Compare amenities against nightly rates when planning.
WiFi performance: Internet connectivity varies between properties. "Strong wifi, cable reception wasn't great," reports one visitor to EZ Daze RV Park. At Delta Ridge RV Park, another reviewer states, "The WiFi is rock solid. I didn't bother using my Starlink as I was able to stream from the campgrounds wifi."
Extended stay considerations: Longer-term RVers have specific needs beyond vacation campers. "Nice for extended stay," notes Shana D. about EZ Daze, adding it's "a great extended stay campground. Lots of amenities, including a swimming pool. Very close to shops and restaurants."