Reelfoot Lake forms the hub of camping near New Madrid, Missouri, with unique ecological features including a cypress-studded flooded forest. This Mississippi River region experiences significant seasonal access variations, with many sites becoming unusable during heavy rain periods. Winter visits offer fewer insect problems than summer camping, when bug protection becomes essential for any outdoor activities.
What to do
Pontoon tours: Take a guided lake expedition from Reelfoot Lake State Park to see unique wildlife and terrain. "Did a 2 hour pontoon tour offered at the TN State Park Visitor Center. Guide was excellent. Neat to see a bald cypress in one of TN's only 2 natural lakes. The history of Reelfoot is interesting, parts of the tour feel like you are in a cypress swamp, not a lake. Saw 10 bald eagles, osprey, egret, blue heron," shared Tom B.
Bird watching: Spring and fall migrations bring diverse species to the area. "Pelican's stop here on their migration and I recommend the pontoon tour in October during the festival if you want to see them on the water," notes Mia S. from South Campground. Many campers report seeing bald eagles, herons, egrets, and ospreys throughout the year.
Lake paddling: Rent canoes or kayaks to explore the flooded forest ecosystem at Blue Bank Resort. "RV campground with hook ups, as well as a few different cabins to stay in surrounded by locals who live on the lake. Kayaking and motor boating, and cute little gift shop," reports TioRina S. The cypress-studded waters create a unique paddling experience unlike typical lake recreation.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Some campgrounds offer more room between sites than others. "The campground was laid out well in the fact that you didn't feel crowded at all, even when there were lots of campers. We were in site 45 with a 33 ft travel trailer and had plenty of room," explains Brenda L. about South Campground.
Fishing access: The region offers multiple fishing opportunities on both lakes and the Mississippi. "If you are into fishing and bird watching, it is the place to be," writes Katrin M. about Reelfoot Lake. The lake contains numerous species, though fishing quality varies seasonally.
Historical sites: Explore Civil War history at nearby parks. "Great little Civil War museum," mentions Lynn G. about Columbus-Belmont State Park. "You can even take a self-guides walking tour through the trenches dug by soldiers in the Civil War, walking by several cannons and other relics left behind," adds Brandon R.
What you should know
Bug protection: Insect repellent is essential during warm months. "Bring your mosquito repellent and don't let them take away the great experience you can have here," advises Justin F. about South Campground. Many campers suggest setting up screen enclosures or timing visits for cooler months to avoid the worst of the bugs.
Flooding concerns: Check conditions before arrival, especially after rain. "When we arrived at the park, we were greeted with a sign at the self check-in that there was no water due to the recent heavy rains and flooding," reports MickandKarla W. about Bootheel RV Park. Low-lying sites throughout the region become unusable after heavy rain.
Site selection: Research specific site numbers before booking. "Sites 22, 24, 25, 70 backup to the forest and have lots of room to set up tents, however they are the first to flood and stay wet longer," advises Mia S. about South Campground. Campground maps typically indicate which sites are most susceptible to flooding.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Some campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities. "This campground had a lot of families, a simple but age appropriate playground (ages 5-12), and many spots with views of the lake," notes Maggie about South Campground. Playgrounds provide entertainment for younger children between outdoor adventures.
Educational opportunities: Visit nature centers and museums. "Great little Civil War museum," recommends Lynn G. Many parks in the region offer educational displays about local ecology and history, providing learning opportunities during rainy days.
Food options: Several campgrounds have nearby dining. "We did choose one night to go to the resort restaurant (a fish house) next door to the campground (a quick walk even with small children)," shares Maggie from South Campground. Airpark North Campground visitors mention "Quick walk to the Blue Bank Fish House for a great dinner," according to Jan K.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Prepare leveling equipment for uneven sites. "These sites were paved, but not level, so be prepared to level. If using those yellow camco 'lego' block to level, be sure to put a canvas tarp or rubber mat between the blocks and the pavement, otherwise they will slide when you try to roll on top of them," advises Tom B. about Columbus-Belmont State Park.
Hookup limitations: Check specific campground amenities. "The first three rows in the park are 30 AMP with a mix of FHUs and water & electric," notes MickandKarla W. about Bootheel RV Park. At Donaldson Point Conservation Area, expect no hookups but free camping with "Very pretty sunset views. Area was flat and sandy... very sandy," according to Pam H.
Dump station availability: Not all sites have sewer connections. "We dumped on the way out at their dump station that only has a dump and no water for a cleaning hose," shares MickandKarla W. about Bootheel RV Park. Several campgrounds require using centralized dump stations rather than at-site connections.
