Situated in Lauderdale County, Burlison lies within Tennessee's western edge, about 45 miles northeast of Memphis. The area features gently rolling hills and farmland at approximately 350 feet elevation. Weather ranges from hot, humid summers to mild winters, with spring and fall offering the most comfortable camping conditions near Burlison's mix of private forests and open countryside.
What to do
Water activities at nearby lakes: Serendipity Resort offers paddleboarding, kayaking, and boat rentals as part of their amenities. According to a camper, "There is paddleboarding, kayaking, and a small John boat included with the park. There is also a very nice spacious pool that is included as well. The pool is 11ft deep so there's no issues with using the diving board."
Visit Memphis attractions: Memphis KOA provides easy access to Memphis attractions just across the Mississippi River. One reviewer notes, "Close to Memphis, across the river. It's a great campground. The scenery is not spectacular but that's not their fault. Surprisingly quiet for being right on hwy 40."
Climbing and hiking: Take advantage of the observation tower at Serendipity Resort for unique views. "There's plenty of room to walk around and a fire tower to climb. You can see some great views up there," shares a visitor who explored the property.
What campers like
Clean facilities: EZ Daze RV Park receives consistently high marks for cleanliness. A reviewer shares, "The park is very clean and exceptionally well maintained. Perfect overnight. One exit north has everything you need; food, Aldi's, Walmart."
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful environment at some locations. A Serendipity Resort guest noted, "Very quiet, no road noise or trains or planes. Just a little longer drive off the main highway."
Family-friendly amenities: Sun Retreats Horn Lake offers extensive activities for families seeking glamping close to Burlison, Tennessee. A recent guest explains, "Traveling from California with kids who have been at the mercy of cross-country RV parks- this was a reprieve for them, pool, bikes, playgrounds. We've paid $100 a night for less."
What you should know
Varying site spacing: Site proximity differs between campgrounds. At Memphis KOA, a camper mentions, "We stayed here for a few nights while visiting Memphis. It is a small campground right on the highway with a lot of traffic noise. The campsites were a decent size but the mosquitoes were unbearable."
Seasonal operations: Some water features and activities have limited availability during off-peak times. A Sun Retreats Horn Lake visitor explained, "We were staying off-season so there was no activities and they actually deflated the jumping pad, but my kids still had fun."
Road noise: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. One EZ Daze RV Park guest wrote, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: Shearins RV Park provides a basic alternative when Serendipity's water features are too crowded. Though simpler, a visitor notes the park "has been at this location since 1955. It was originally a trailer park but has been converted to a RV park. Located in flat farm land a few miles from Blytheville."
Plan for extra costs: Budget for additional fees at water amenities. At Serendipity Resort, "The water park is a $20 charge a piece on the first day and goes down to $10 a day for the rest of your stay. Be advised you will be charged whether you are going in the water or not."
Consider rental options: Several glamping sites near Burlison, Tennessee offer equipment rentals. Serendipity Resort has "Yurts for rent and cabins. They all look well kept and up to date," according to a visitor who stayed there.
Tips from RVers
Level sites matter: Experienced RVers appreciate Memphis KOA's site preparation. One camper stated, "Right off the hiway. The most Level site in our 6k mile trip. Nice park w clean facilities. Easy access to the sites."
Full hookups availability: Elvis Presley Boulevard RV Park offers full hookups but has mixed reviews about surroundings. A visitor described it as "Just a rv park with nothing fancy on the Graceland property. Staff friendly."
Power concerns: Some RVers report electrical issues at certain sites. An EZ Daze RV Park guest detailed: "We experienced a problem with our Powerdog 50 EPO Surge protector getting an E1 and E2 code error from the pedastals. The errors state that if the power is above 132 or below 104 on line 1 (E1) or line 2 (E2) it will shut off park power."
