Best Campgrounds near Arlington, TN
The northeastern outskirts of Arlington, Tennessee provide access to several camping options within a 30-minute drive, with state parks and private RV facilities dominating the landscape. Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park, located about 15 miles northwest of Arlington, offers tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins in a heavily wooded setting along the Mississippi River. Other nearby options include T.O. Fuller State Park to the southwest and several Memphis-area RV parks that cater primarily to travelers visiting urban attractions. Most campgrounds in the region operate year-round, though site availability varies seasonally, with state parks typically requiring reservations during peak summer months and holiday weekends.
Summer camping conditions near Arlington demand preparation for heat and insects, particularly at riverside locations. As one camper at Meeman-Shelby noted, "August in Tennessee is hot and muggy," with mosquitoes described as "terrible in the summer around dusk" near wetland areas. Many campgrounds provide electric hookups, which prove valuable during humid summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. Winter camping is possible but less common, with occasional freezing temperatures possible from December through February. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, though coverage may be spotty in more remote sections of state parks. Most campgrounds feature paved or gravel roads accessible to standard vehicles without requiring high clearance or four-wheel drive.
Riverside camping experiences receive particular attention in visitor reviews, especially at Tom Sawyer's RV Park across the Mississippi in West Memphis, Arkansas. "Great spot right on the Mississippi River, barges traveling up and down day and night. Beautiful sunrise and sunsets," noted one reviewer. Tent campers should research specific sites carefully, as many campgrounds prioritize RV accommodations with limited tent-specific areas. Proximity to Memphis attractions serves as a major draw for many campgrounds, with several visitors mentioning using the campgrounds as a base for exploring Graceland, Beale Street, and other urban destinations. Noise can be an issue at some locations, particularly those near highways or, in the case of T.O. Fuller State Park, near a water treatment facility that occasionally produces unpleasant odors depending on wind direction.