Camping near Bartlett, Tennessee offers different site options depending on seasonal conditions. Sites along the Mississippi River provide expansive views but can experience closures due to flooding, while inland campgrounds often feature dense forest settings with limited cell reception. Summer temperatures regularly reach the upper 90s with high humidity, making shaded sites essential when camping with pets during peak season.
What to do
Morning hiking trails: At Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park, trails wind through 1,138 acres of forested terrain. "I hiked both the Woodland and Pioneer Springs trails, each about 4 miles and along the way enjoyed just taking in the outdoors. I will say that if you do any trails in late summer here you will need mosquito spray because they come in droves," notes Crystal C.
Mississippi River barge watching: Riverside camping at Tom Sawyer's RV Park offers unique water-based recreation. "Tugboats pushed barges against the current at a slower than walking pace. Trees with root balls intact floated downstream. The distant banks of the Tennessee side showed their sandy promontory," describes Greg S. The river current provides a constantly changing vista.
Visit Chucalissa Museum: Located within T.O. Fuller State Park, the museum showcases archaeological finds from the area. "The Chucalissa museum (which you can get free tickets to when checking in) is worth checking out if you are here," recommends Shana D. Admission tickets are included with camping registration.
What campers like
Quiet cul-de-sac locations: SK Campground offers a secluded atmosphere despite being close to urban areas. "This nice little gem was a great find for the wife and I. Even though we did not get to meet the host, she was available over the phone and never ignored our calls or texts. There is only one camp site, which means you will, more then likely, have the whole place to yourself," writes Christopher N.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds near Bartlett feature regular wildlife sightings. "It has a pond in the rear with fishing allowed. 🦌 🦌 deer come out in the evening. Can see the stars 🌟 at 🌙 night," shares Shay A. about SK Campground. Wildlife viewing is best during dawn and dusk hours.
Convenient urban access: Campers appreciate the proximity to Memphis attractions. "We were able to get a very shaded site that was very private. It is a nice park to bike around as the scenery is spectacular! Truly a 'back to nature experience' as our cell phones didn't get service, but it was somewhat refreshing," notes Sara S. about her experience at Meeman-Shelby State Park.
What you should know
Summer insect activity: Mosquitoes are particularly problematic during warmer months. "Unless you are in love with mosquitos you may want to stay away from here in the summer, other than that it's a pretty nice place to escape for the weekend. I'm from the south so mosquitos are pretty much the norm for summer, so they didn't deter us," advises Andrew S. about Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park.
Site access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approaches. "Holy heck 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 past ancient campground signs and various unrelated turn offs," explains Greg S. about reaching Tom Sawyer's RV Park.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds. "It's good, not great. Proximity to Memphis was a plus, however, we had 0 service anywhere near our campsite. Nice to disconnect for a night, but plan accordingly," mentions Ellie B. about staying at Meeman-Shelby State Park.
Tips for camping with families
First-timer friendly sites: Memphis KOA offers excellent support for new campers with pets. "From the moment we arrived, we had an amazing experience. The staff greeted us and our pups with smiles, cozies, and treats for the dogs. The site is well taken care of," shares Zack L.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature updated play areas. "The campground itself is tucked away deep into the Meeman Shelby State Forest and offers a pleasant amount solitude even though the sites are fairly close together," mentions Daniel L. Meeman-Shelby includes updated playground equipment within walking distance of most campsites.
Meal delivery options: Some campgrounds offer food service directly to your site. "Very impressed they have breakfast and dinner + they deliver right to ur site!" reports Kari K. about Memphis KOA, which can be particularly helpful when managing pets during meal preparation.
Tips from RVers
Maneuvering challenges: Graceland RV Park requires careful navigation for larger rigs. "Sites are gravel. Campground can accommodate all sizes of rvs. Dogs welcome. Bathrooms are clean and functional, just need a bit of cosmetic updating (peeling paint, missing tiles)," explains Renee H.
Level site availability: Some campgrounds offer reliably level parking. "Right off the hiway. The most Level site in our 6k mile trip. Nice park w clean facilities. Easy access to the sites," notes Kathy F. about Memphis KOA, which reduces setup time considerably.
Seasonal site selection: "49 available sites, all sites with water, 30A, fire ring, grill and picnic table, a variety of hiking/biking trails, update playground, lake with rental kayaks, canoes, boats (in season)," lists Ryan S. about Meeman-Shelby, adding, "We mostly camp at Meeman-Shelby in the fall/winter. We do not camp Spring/Summer" due to insect activity.
