Best Tent Camping near Arlington, TN
Tent camping near Arlington, Tennessee provides access to several primitive sites within driving distance across the Mississippi border. Kellys Crossing Campground in Coldwater, MS offers walk-in tent sites with lake access, while Pleasant Hill Campground in Hernando provides basic tent camping facilities. Cox Lake in Holly Springs National Forest also accommodates tent campers looking for a more natural setting. These tent-only camping areas are typically 45-60 minutes southwest of Arlington, making them accessible for weekend camping trips.
Primitive tent camping is the standard at these locations, with minimal amenities available. Kellys Crossing features picnic tables, basic toilets, and allows fires, though campers must bring their own firewood. The campground does not accept reservations and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Pleasant Hill Campground has vault toilets but limited maintenance, with reports of overgrown sites. Cox Lake lacks drinking water and toilet facilities, requiring campers to be self-sufficient with water and waste management. Pets are permitted at all three locations, though they must be leashed. Weather conditions vary seasonally, with hot, humid summers and mild winters typical for the region.
The backcountry tent camping experience near Arlington emphasizes solitude over amenities. Campers noted that Kellys Crossing is "technically a boat ramp that accesses Arkabutla Lake with picnic and camping areas nearby," making it ideal for those seeking isolation. According to reviews, "you won't be fighting a lot of other campers to be able to stay here," and it's "a good spot to go if you needed to get away for some solitude." Cox Lake provides a "good pit stop" for overnight tent camping with fishing opportunities, though visitors reported some litter issues. Walk-in tent sites at these locations often provide more privacy than developed campgrounds, with natural surroundings and lake views being the primary attractions. Tent campers should prepare for primitive conditions by bringing all necessary supplies, including drinking water, insect repellent, and proper waste disposal bags.