Best Campgrounds near Martin, TN
The Martin, Tennessee area encompasses several campgrounds with a range of accommodations from primitive tent sites to full-service RV parks. Reelfoot Lake State Park, located approximately 45 miles northwest of Martin, features two distinct campgrounds—South Campground and Airpark North—offering tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and cabin rentals. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area's Piney Campground, situated about 35 miles east of Martin, provides lakeside camping with both developed and primitive options. Several privately operated RV parks, including Coyote View RV Park and Union City RV Park, cater primarily to recreational vehicles with full hookups.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping experiences in this region, particularly at Reelfoot Lake where mosquitoes can be problematic during summer months. Most campgrounds maintain year-round operations, though amenities may be limited during winter. Water levels at Kentucky Lake and Reelfoot Lake fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline camping and boat access. Reservations are strongly recommended for weekend stays between April and October, especially at waterfront sites which typically book months in advance. Cell service varies considerably throughout the region, with stronger coverage near towns and limited or no service in more remote camping areas. A review noted, "The mosquitoes, gnats, and flies were so overwhelming that we couldn't go outside and even spent most the evening killing bugs inside the camper with no lights on."
Waterfront camping represents the most sought-after experience in the region, with Kentucky Lake and Reelfoot Lake providing numerous options for lakeside sites. Campers consistently mention the scenic views and wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly at Reelfoot Lake where bald eagles, pelicans, and herons are commonly spotted. The developed campgrounds typically feature clean bathhouses, though several reviews mention aging facilities at some locations. Piney Campground receives praise for its spacious sites and recreational amenities, including bike trails, swimming areas, and boat ramps. As one camper described, "The lakeside sites have electrical hookups but no water but there are potable water sites throughout the park. We simply filled up our water tanks before setting up and everything was great." Quieter experiences can be found at more primitive camping areas, though these typically lack amenities beyond basic pit toilets.
