Equestrian camping near Covington, Tennessee presents challenges for horse owners seeking facilities with dedicated equine amenities. Located in western Tennessee's Tipton County, Covington sits at approximately 320 feet above sea level within the Mississippi Alluvial Plain. The area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters, creating a long camping season with particular considerations for horse care during summer months.
What to do
Explore Agricenter property: Though Agricenter International RV Park doesn't offer horse facilities, its location on agricultural fairgrounds provides access to the adjacent Agricenter International complex. "Full hookups and convenient location. We have stayed there several times," notes Brent M., making it a potential base camp for hauling horses to nearby riding areas.
Visit Memphis attractions: Agricenter International RV Park provides a strategic location for exploring Memphis attractions while keeping horses boarded elsewhere. One camper explains, "The Farmer's Market (it's an easy walk from the park), Graceland (was about 30-40 min from the park), The Miami Zoo (was about 20 min from the park). I am sure there are a lot more but we weren't able to get to them in the time that we stayed."
Enjoy day rides: While Cook's Lake RV Resort lacks horse-specific amenities, its location provides a quieter alternative to Memphis campgrounds. Paul C. describes it as "Away from it all. But still close to Memphis. About 15 minutes to downtown, but within cell service," making it suitable for those wanting to trailer horses to regional riding areas.
What campers like
Security considerations: Horse owners prioritize security, and Cook's Lake offers advantages in this regard. "Safety. This is next to police academy, and has several students living in it - never felt danger here," shares Paul C., relevant for those traveling with valuable horses and equipment.
Accessibility for late arrivals: Horse transporters often travel during cooler hours, making late check-in options important. At Agricenter International RV Park, one camper appreciated that staff "Got us in late held our spot," providing flexibility for equestrians with unpredictable travel schedules.
Quieter atmosphere: Despite lacking dedicated equestrian facilities, Cook's Lake's environment might suit some horse owners. "Workers mainly. Ton of construction, trade, and 0500-1700 workers. This was great from a sleeping standpoint (no one was ever loud)," notes one reviewer, potentially appealing to those seeking minimal disruptions.
What you should know
Site conditions: Agricenter International's sites present challenges during wet weather. "They are working on adding gravel to the spaces, right now though when it rains you are in a swamp. The spaces are also very close together," reports Nikki R., important for horse trailers requiring stable parking areas.
Bathroom limitations: Limited facilities affect comfort for equestrians spending long days with horses. "Only one bathroom working and is in disrepair," notes one Agricenter visitor, while another mentions, "The bathrooms are quite a walk if you are further into the park. There are 2 restrooms with a shower in each."
Layout considerations: Campground layouts may complicate horse trailer parking. Agricenter International RV Park is described as "basically a parking lot for RVs, not a campground. Campers are stacked on top of each other," making maneuvering large rigs difficult.
Tips for camping with families
Limited recreational options: Families with children will find minimal entertainment at Cook's Lake. One camper noted that despite safety advantages, "kids didn't have a scene so to speak," suggesting families should plan off-site activities.
Weather exposure: Weather protection matters when camping with horses and children. At Cook's Lake, be prepared for "Exposed. In the sun, rain, wind, etc. It was an old mobile-home park, so very exposed to elements," requiring appropriate shelter planning.
Consider stay duration: Agricenter International works better for brief stays rather than extended horse-camping vacations. One camper recommends, "I would only recommend this place if you are working an event at the Agricenter or if you are passing through town and desperate for a place to stay."
Tips from RVers
Monthly stay considerations: For extended equestrian camping, Agricenter offers monthly rates. "Not a terrible monthly price, the trash cans are shared and the wifi is slow in the evening, but you're not paying extra for that or water or power," notes one camper, though the official policy limits stays.
Site arrangement challenges: RVers with horse trailers should note the buddy site configuration at Agricenter. "Almost all of the sites are buddy sites where your front door is facing your neighbor's. There is no privacy at all," potentially complicating horse trailer placement and creating proximity issues.
Management responsiveness: When problems arise with neighbors, management intervention may be needed. One Agricenter visitor reported, "We actually ran into a problem with our 'buddy neighbor'. The problem was taken care of by the manager of the park," indicating responsive but necessary staff involvement.
