Cabins near Martin, Tennessee are concentrated around Kentucky Lake and Reelfoot Lake, typically within a 35-50 mile drive from town. The region sits at elevations between 350-450 feet above sea level, with the surrounding lakes offering cooler summer temperatures than inland areas. Winter cabin rentals often include supplemental electric heat systems as temperatures can drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Nature exploration at Reelfoot Lake: The lake offers unique cypress swamp environments that can be experienced through guided pontoon tours. "Did a 2 hour pontoon tour offered at the TN State Park Visitor Center. Guide was excellent. Neat to see a bald cypress in one of TN's only 2 natural lakes," shares a visitor at South Campground — Reelfoot Lake State Park.
Water activities on Kentucky Lake: Campers staying in cabin accommodations can access multiple boat launches for kayaking, canoeing or motorized boating. "Nice campground with electric hookups. One central dump station and multiple areas with community water spigots... Nice outpost store with most of the essentials including propane and firewood," notes a visitor to Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area Piney Campground.
Wildlife viewing year-round: The region offers excellent bird watching opportunities across seasons. "If you love bird watching or photography this place is a dream; osprey, eagles, herons, egrets, and so many others are everywhere. Pelican's stop here on their migration and I recommend the pontoon tour in October during the festival if you want to see them on the water," explains a South Campground visitor.
What campers like
Lakefront cabin locations: Many cabin rentals offer direct lake access or views. "This campground had a lot of families, a simple but age appropriate playground (ages 5-12), and many spots with views of the lake," reports a camper at South Campground. Cabin renters appreciate being able to drop watercraft directly into the water.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: "Restrooms were nice, restaurant was closed for the season," notes a visitor to Paris Landing State Park Campground. Most cabin facilities are regularly serviced with updated amenities, especially at state park locations.
Seasonal advantages: Fall and winter visitors can enjoy reduced crowds while still accessing key amenities. "We visited at the end of the season. The campground was right next to the marina and an overpass allows you to cross over to the other side where the lodge and golf course are," shares a camper at Paris Landing State Park.
What you should know
Insects can be overwhelming in summer months: "Stayed for the night on the south campground and it was excellent. Lots of friendly people with locals and travelers alike. Only downside was the massive amount of gnats and mosquitoes by the lake sites. Bring your mosquito repellent," cautions a reviewer at South Campground.
Elevation and drainage challenges: Many cabin areas sit on low ground that can flood during heavy rains. "The land is low so if there is heavy rain it will be soggy in many places," notes a South Campground visitor.
Varying levels of accessibility: "Bathrooms and showers near site 23 are bigger and more accessible. The bathrooms and showers near site 4 do have a ramp but it is uneven, the space inside is much smaller and would be difficult to navigate with a wheelchair," reports a visitor detailing the challenges at Piney Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Consider off-peak visits: "We camp here a lot and have tried several spots in the South campground. The ones near the lake have views but don't have water access. There is also a pavilion near the lake," shares a regular visitor about their cabin camping experiences.
Activity planning for children: Look for campgrounds with dedicated family areas. "This campground is small but super nice! All spots have lots of shade which is always a plus for summer camping! They have a very nice pool and pool area, huge laundromat, a fun gemmine for the kiddos!" reports a visitor to Paris Landing-Kentucky Lake KOA.
Pack extra supplies: Limited shopping options mean families should come prepared. "Took the kids, had fun. Lots of stuff to do in LBL. Campground was almost full, but we were able to switch our reservation to a walk up only site right on the water when we arrived," notes a visitor to Piney Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: "The campground layout is odd. Some sites are pointed the wrong direction on a one way road, so you just have to drive it backwards. Most sites are small, but there are a few longer ones. Seems like many are unlevel," cautions a visitor to Paris Landing State Park.
Noise considerations: "The spot was nice, the park was lovely, but the road noise was bothersome. We were in a spot pretty far from the road but it was very noticeable," mentions a Paris Landing State Park camper about their cabin experience.
Electrical hookup awareness: "It's a tight fit and our rig is only 22.5' TT. Our back in site was to the left on a one way road that I had to turn around and go opposite way so we could get in. Had water and electrical hook up but the 30 amp was fried. Luckily it also had 20 amp so power management was key," explains a visitor to Buchanan Resort.
