Camping options near Arlington, Tennessee range from state park facilities to private RV parks situated along major highways and the Mississippi River. Sites near Arlington typically have level access for standard vehicles with most camping areas located within a 30-minute drive of town. Cell service remains consistently available at most locations except in certain remote sections of state parks, particularly at Fort Pillow Historic State Park where reception can be spotty in ravines and along bluff trails.
What to do
Fishing access points: Fort Pillow Historic State Park offers a small lake with boat rentals and fishing opportunities. "There is a small fishing lake with a boat ramp and pier," notes one camper who enjoyed water activities at the park.
Trail networks: The trail system at Meeman-Shelby provides outdoor recreation options for various activity levels. "I hiked both the Woodland and Pioneer Springs trails, each about 4 miles and along the way enjoyed just taking in the outdoors," reports a visitor to Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park.
Historic explorations: Civil War history enthusiasts can explore Fort Pillow's preserved battlements and museum. A camper at Fort Pillow Historic State Park shared their experience with ranger programs: "Ranger Tyson informed us that they were doing a night hike to the Fort and they would be serving Gumbo for dinner around the campfire at the Fort. Sign me up! It was one of the fee based activities, but for $5 per person, it was totally worth it!"
What campers like
River views: Watching barge traffic on the Mississippi ranks as a favorite activity for many visitors. "Tugboats pushed barges against the current at a slower than walking pace. Trees with root balls intact floated downstream," writes one camper at Tom Sawyer's RV Park, highlighting the distinctive riverfront experience.
Free amenities: Complimentary services enhance value at several area campgrounds. "Free laundry, and even some small walking trails!" mentions a Tom Sawyer's RV Park reviewer about unexpected perks that made their stay more convenient.
Local dining options: Some campgrounds offer direct access to regional cuisine. A visitor to Graceland RV Park appreciated the unique dining transportation: "The highlight of our stay here was the opportunity to take a free pink Cadillac limo ride to Marlowe's for superb BBQ. Our children loved this opportunity."
What you should know
Seasonal pest concerns: Summer camping near Arlington requires preparation for mosquito activity. "If you go after the weather warms up, be forewarned that the mosquitos will eat you alive. We mostly camp at Meeman-Shelby in the fall/winter. We do not camp Spring/Summer," advises a regular visitor to Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park.
Cell service limitations: Mobile connectivity varies across campgrounds with some areas having minimal coverage. "We had 0 service anywhere near our campsite. Nice to disconnect for a night, but plan accordingly," reports one Meeman-Shelby Forest camper about communication challenges.
Urban proximity considerations: Some campgrounds sit adjacent to less desirable areas requiring awareness. "The drive into the park is not very pretty but once in the park, it is VERY nice. The staff keep the area clean, they are aware of who is supposed there and who is not," explains a camper at Agricenter RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Multiple campgrounds feature play equipment for children. A visitor to T.O. Fuller State Park noted the "updated playground in the campground area that looks very nice," providing entertainment options for younger campers.
Swimming options: Seasonal pool facilities offer relief from summer heat. "The rec'd reduced swim passes and the kids enjoyed the pool area," mentioned a T.O. Fuller State Park visitor who appreciated the discounted access to water recreation.
Educational activities: Ranger-led programs provide learning opportunities for children. "They work hard to offer great ranger lead programs. You can tell right away that the staff really does care about this park," shared a Fort Pillow Historic State Park camper who participated in evening activities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Many campgrounds offer varying site types requiring research for proper fit. "Not all sites are suitable for tent campers. I would call ahead to ask what sites to consider if booking online, or just show up," advises an RV owner who stayed at Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park.
Hookup variations: Electrical service differs between parks and even within single campgrounds. A visitor to Fort Pillow Historic State Park noted: "You have a handful of RV sites with 50 amp, a couple of 30 amp sites and then lots of tent sites that have 20 amp or no power at all," highlighting the importance of confirming available connections before arrival.
Access limitations: Some parks have challenging approach roads requiring caution. "The drive getting to this place is crazy- left off the interstate, through a shady part of Memphis, past all kinds of industry, across tracks and over a dike, down a curvy bumpy gravel road," warns a Tom Sawyer's RV Park visitor about the route to riverfront camping.
