Fort Pillow Historic State Park Campground offers multiple camping options near Henning, Tennessee, at an elevation of 405 feet above sea level. The park encompasses 1,642 acres of protected land with camping areas situated on forested slopes leading down to the Mississippi River. Winter temperatures typically range from 30°F to 50°F, making off-season camping accessible but requiring proper gear.
What to do
Explore the visitor center: The Civil War history at Fort Pillow Historic State Park includes educational exhibits about the 1864 battle. "The museum was a bunker style building built into the side of the hill. Great exhibit and lots of info on the battle and fort at Fort Pillow," notes Rick P.
Attend ranger programs: Evening activities provide unique experiences throughout the park. "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!" shares Shana D.
Kayak on the lake: Reelfoot Lake State Park offers water activities on its cypress-studded lake formed by earthquakes in 1811-1812. "Reelfoot lake is beautiful, this was our first time kayaking the lake and it was really nice," says Maria L., who appreciates the peaceful surroundings.
Hike the backcountry: The bluff trail provides more secluded experiences for those seeking solitude. "I backpacked into the backcountry along the bluff trail (which requires a permit). Easy to moderate hiking terrain, views of the lake. Nice little escape," reports Dan N.
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Campgrounds in this region tend to offer tranquility not found in busier parks. At Fort Pillow Historic State Park, "A nice surprise about this campground was how quiet it was. Not very busy when we visited we got to soak in the scenery in serenity," writes Sara S.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The visitor center at Reelfoot maintains a collection of native birds of prey for educational purposes. "The visitor center is always a must, to check out the eagles, owls and snakes!" recommends Maria L.
Group camping options: Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park offers sites for larger gatherings 30 miles south of Henning. "We stayed in the group site that will hold up to 200 people for Halloween and it was perfect. The group site is away from all the other sites so you have plenty of room for children of all ages to run around and play without disturbing other campers," explains Brittni F.
Historical context: The area's Civil War significance adds educational value. "Nice hiking trails but trail to the old fort wasn't clearly marked and difficult to follow, use a map," advises Thomas W. when exploring these historical areas.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding concerns: Water levels can affect campsite availability at certain times. At Reelfoot Lake State Park, "A good 90% of the campground was underwater! The handful of sites that were still open for use had pools of water standing on the site," reported Shana D. after a rainy period.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely between parks in the region. "We had 0 service anywhere near our campsite. Nice to disconnect for a night, but plan accordingly," notes Ellie B.
Insect populations: Summer camping requires preparation for mosquitoes, particularly in wooded and lakeside areas. "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," warns Ryan S.
Bathroom access varies: In more remote campsite areas, facilities may require longer walks. "Only problem is the only handicapped accessible shower is in this shower house and they don't allow you to drive there unless you have a golf cart," explains Nathan B. about Serendipity Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Geocaching opportunities: Chickasaw State Park offers interactive outdoor activities. "This park has camping, hiking trails, horse back riding and geocaching just to name a few things to do here," notes Amanda F., making it good for pet-friendly camping near Henning with children.
Playground access: Several parks maintain play areas for younger campers. "The park had a really nice day use area with a new playground, pavilion area and picnic tables. There is also a basketball goal/court area near the day use area," observes Shana D.
Water recreation options: Lakes provide swimming and paddling activities during warmer months. "We enjoyed the campground and have never had better service from the parks staff," says Don N. about Fort Pillow, where staff can direct families to appropriate water access points.
Educational wildlife viewing: Ranger-led programs help children connect with nature. "Take one of the many ranger-led tours by land or boat!! We did a bird watching tour that was incredible, we got close to so many different species," recommends Lynn G.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Joy-O RV Park, "spots are level and gravel lined with decent hook ups," according to Bret N., making it a good overnight option for those traveling with pets near Henning, Tennessee.
Hookup details: Electric service varies between campgrounds. "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," explains Shana D. about Fort Pillow's mixed campsite configuration.
Dump station locations: Not all parks offer sewer connections at individual sites. "Campground is small but well maintained. The inner loop of the primary campground has been updated with new concrete and gravel and 2 sites (I think 6,8) are ADA accessible," says Ryan S. at Fort Pillow.
Campground terrain: The topography affects site leveling requirements. "The trailer/RV loop is on the side of a hill. It was amazing the way they got so many half way level sites into this area," reports Gary P. about Chickasaw State Park, noting the engineering required to create usable RV sites.
Legend
