Cabins near Olive Branch, Mississippi offer year-round accommodations within a 30-minute radius across northern Mississippi and southern Tennessee. The region sits at approximately 400 feet above sea level with a humid subtropical climate that features hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters. Most cabin rentals in the area remain open throughout winter months, though seasonal activities at surrounding campgrounds typically peak from April through October.
What to do
Fishing on the Mississippi: At Tom Sawyer's RV Park, visitors can fish directly along the mighty Mississippi. "Fun watching the traffic on the river," notes Sue S., who appreciated the "nice size spaces with square table and benches, concrete pad, grass area view of the River."
Disc golf courses: Wall Doxey State Park features a complete disc golf course winding through pine forest areas. Brandon R. mentions, "The highlight for us is the disc golf course the winds through the pine forest," though he cautions about ticks during warmer months.
Boating opportunities: Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park offers boat rentals for exploring the lake. "You can travel to the boat ramp and marina and rent boats there or bring your own to take advantage of the lake which winds through various types of vegetation," explains Crystal C., who enjoyed "taking out a kayak and exploring the swampy feeling area."
Halloween festivities: Several campgrounds host special seasonal events, particularly for Halloween. Fred S. from Wall Doxey describes, "Every camp site had wonderful decorations and the kids had such a blast. It was awesome."
What campers like
Riverfront views: The Mississippi River provides unique camping experiences. Greg S. from Tom Sawyer's RV Park shared, "As I sat on the bench with my sons at dusk looking out across the mighty miss, the condition of the campground wasn't on my mind. This place is worth a stop for a day or two as you explore Memphis."
Free amenities: Uncommon perks add value at certain locations. Pat&Amanda D. appreciated Tom Sawyer's unexpected offerings: "Staff was friendly as were the other RVers plus laundry was free! Quick and easy drive back over the Mississippi to get into Memphis."
Privacy between sites: SK Campground offers exceptional privacy as a small, secluded spot. Christopher N. explains, "There is only one camp site, which means you will, more then likely, have the whole place to yourself," adding it was "just quiet and peaceful. We slept with windows open in our camper with minimal noise."
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. Shay A. from SK Campground notes, "🦌 🦌 deer come out in the evening. Can see the stars 🌟 at 🌙 night."
What you should know
Site accessibility challenges: Tight access roads can create difficulties. At Tom Sawyer's, Christine U. warns, "The drive into the campground can seem a little sketchy, but once you get to your spot on the river it is a great hidden gem."
Flooding concerns: River proximity means seasonal closures. Christine U. cautions about Tom Sawyer's: "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."
Insect preparation: Wall Doxey State Park Campground requires serious tick prevention during warm months. Crystal C. advises, "Bring citronella candles for your table when camping and try to put a dryer sheet in your pocket to ward off mosquitoes. In addition to spray these will make your trip here a bit more comfortable."
Cellular connectivity: Service can be limited or non-existent at some parks. Ellie B. noted about Meeman-Shelby: "we had 0 service anywhere near our campsite. Nice to disconnect for a night, but plan accordingly."
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Sun Retreats Horn Lake (formerly Jellystone Park) offers extensive activities for children. Angela C. states, "Most of the amenities and services are located at the front of the campground and includes a store and propane, playground, dog run, pool, showers and laundry, gold mining station, and sports courts (basketball, Gaga ball, and basketball)."
Pink Cadillac rides: Unique dining shuttle service available from Graceland RV Park. Jeremy H. shares, "The highlight of our stay here, however, was the opportunity to take a free pink Cadillac limo ride to Marlowe's for superb BBQ. Our children loved this opportunity."
Off-season considerations: Family-focused campgrounds differ significantly between peak and off-seasons. Angela C. observed at Sun Retreats Horn Lake, "While we were there, I saw almost no children and several of the camper sites looked like the guests were staying long-term. For a campground that is marketed towards families, the demographics were a bit strange."
Playground access: Nicole from Meeman-Shelby reports, "Areas are very clean kid friendly playgrounds. Each space was far enough but not but also in proximity to each other for those who afraid to camp out somewhere totally alone."
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: At Memphis KOA, Art Z. advises, "4 stars because it is next to an interstate highway so there is inevitable noise and not much interesting in the way of scenery. Other than that, this is a 5 star place."
Leveling considerations: Ron R. from SK Campground notes, "I have a 29 ft travel trailer, Manuvering to and withtin the property was tight but doable."
Extended stays: Several locations accommodate longer-term visitors. Yondering R. shares about Sun Retreats Horn Lake, "We were long term at this campground for 7 months. The staff was outstanding, the park was clean and well-kept, and the monthly rates were reasonable."
Food delivery options: On-site food service adds convenience at select campgrounds. Kari K. mentions at Memphis KOA, "Very impressed they have breakfast and dinner + they deliver right to ur site!"
