Dispersed camping opportunities near Dresden, Tennessee remain limited, with most camping concentrated at established campgrounds in the surrounding area. The region sits at relatively low elevations between 350-450 feet above sea level, characterized by gently rolling terrain and numerous waterways. Weather patterns show high humidity during summer months with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while winters remain relatively mild with occasional freezing temperatures.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Reelfoot Lake State Park Campgrounds offers exceptional fishing in Tennessee's largest natural lake. "Fishing was OK from the shore. There is a fishing pier people were talking about but we didnt try it," notes one visitor to the nearby Piney Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The unique ecosystem at Reelfoot Lake hosts diverse bird populations. "The park is very beautiful. We saw pelicans, bald eagles, and herons," remarks a camper who stayed at the lake. A visitor at South Campground adds, "If you love bird watching or photography this place is a dream; osprey, eagles, herons, egrets, and so many others are everywhere."
Historical sites: Several historic Civil War locations exist within driving distance. A visitor to Columbus-Belmont State Park mentions, "You can even take a self-guided walking tour through the trenches dug by soldiers in the Civil War, walking by several cannons and other relics left behind."
What campers like
Lake access: Many campgrounds offer direct water access. At Piney Campground, a camper reports, "Water was warm and calm being off the main lake. Piney cove is pretty shallow and we could walk out into the water a good 30-40ft before getting too deep. Bottom is soft mud."
Spacious sites: Site size varies significantly between campgrounds. "The campground was laid out well in the fact that you didn't feel crowded at all, even when there were lots of campers. We were in site 45 with a 33 ft travel trailer and had plenty of room," notes a visitor to South Campground.
Amenities: Most established campgrounds offer standard facilities. One camper at Parkers Crossroads RV Park explains, "They have a nice pool area, spaces for dogs to be walked (on leash), pet waste disposal, cabins, and full hook ups. The park was very quiet and clean, well kept."
What you should know
Flooding concerns: Low-lying areas experience periodic flooding. A South Campground visitor warns, "The land is low so if there is heavy rain it will be soggy in many places," while another notes that sites "22, 24, 25, 70 backup to the forest and have lots of room to set up tents, however they are the first to flood and stay wet longer."
Insects: Bug activity increases during warmer months. A visitor to South Campground reports, "The mosquitoes are bad and you should take some strong bug spray," while another camper adds, "Stayed for the night on the south campground and it was excellent... Only downside was the massive amount of gnats and mosquitos by the lake sites."
Site conditions: Terrain varies between campgrounds. At Paris Landing State Park Campground, a camper notes, "Paris Landing State Park has about 70 campsites, most with water and electric hookups, but it is not easy to find a level site," while another mentions the campground is "in a hardwood forest, so there is lots of shade."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds include play areas. A camper at Piney Campground shares, "A pavilion and basketball court plus several playgrounds throughout. Well maintained, friendly staff," making it suitable for families with children.
Swimming areas: Water activities provide summer relief. At Piney Campground, a visitor notes, "The river is amazing. I can't say enough good things about it. River was up while I was there making kayaking fun. Plenty of rocks and ledges to jump off."
Educational opportunities: Coyote View RV Park and other locations provide learning experiences. A Reelfoot Lake visitor mentions, "The visitors center is really cool lots of bald eagles, snakes, and fish to check out," offering educational opportunities for children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV site availability and quality varies widely. A camper at Milan City Park warns, "The lots are a little closer than I like but everything's here," while a Parkers Crossroads visitor mentions, "We stayed at a pull through, concrete pad site that was perfectly level."
Hookup placement: Utility placement affects setup ease. At Airpark North Campground, a camper notes, "The water is on the wrong side on the site so bring a extra hose," highlighting the importance of checking hookup locations before arrival.
Seasonal maintenance: Facility conditions vary throughout the year. A visitor to Piney Campground observed, "The bathrooms were clean, but are in bad need of updates, as are the shower facilities. Showers were luke warm, some had non-functioning heaters in them, and a lot of rust and broken shelving."
