Best Campgrounds near Coldwater, MS
Coldwater, Mississippi serves as a gateway to several Corps of Engineers (COE) campgrounds situated around Arkabutla Lake. Dub Patton Campground and South Abutment Recreation Area, both located on Arkabutla Dam Road, provide year-round camping with full hookup options for RVs and designated areas for tent camping. Kellys Crossing offers more primitive camping experiences with boat-in access to Arkabutla Lake, though it functions primarily as a boat ramp with limited amenities. Within a 30-minute drive, campers can access additional options ranging from family-friendly Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Horn Lake to riverside camping at Tom Sawyer's RV Park across the Mississippi state line in Arkansas.
Reservations are strongly recommended for the more developed campgrounds, particularly during summer months when water recreation is popular. According to one camper, "Mississippi does a great job of maintaining their COE campgrounds. Nice, spacious spots underneath large Pine trees." The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while winters can occasionally bring freezing conditions. Mosquitoes and other insects are prevalent near the water, especially during warmer months. Campers note that "mosquitoes are terrible in the summer around dusk" at many sites near wetlands. Most established campgrounds provide water and electric hookups, with varying levels of additional amenities like showers, dump stations, and camp stores.
Water access represents a significant draw for campers in the Coldwater area. Arkabutla Lake offers fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities directly accessible from several campgrounds. Sites with water views tend to fill quickly during peak season. Facilities at state parks and COE campgrounds receive mixed reviews, with some visitors noting maintenance issues. One reviewer mentioned that "Mississippi needs to put some funding behind the park, could be a real gem." RV campers should verify site dimensions before booking, as many older campgrounds have varied site sizes that may not accommodate larger rigs. The proximity to Memphis (approximately 30 miles north) makes these campgrounds convenient bases for exploring both natural areas and urban attractions.
