Camping near Memphis offers diverse options within a 30-mile radius of the city, with sites located in both Tennessee and Mississippi. The region sits at approximately 300 feet above sea level along the Mississippi River floodplain. Summer temperatures routinely reach the upper 90s with high humidity, while winter nights can drop below freezing, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
River watching activities: Tom Sawyer's RV Park provides unique Mississippi River access where campers can observe river traffic. "Watching the tugboats pushing barges against the current at a slower than walking pace" is a highlight according to Greg S., who adds, "Trees with root balls intact floated downstream. The distant banks of the Tennessee side showed their sandy promontory."
Fishing opportunities: Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park offers both river and lake fishing access. "There are a variety of hiking/biking trails, update playground, lake with rental kayaks, canoes, boats (in season)," notes Ryan S. The park's varied aquatic ecosystems support different fish species throughout the seasons.
Historical exploration: The Chucalissa Museum at T.O. Fuller State Park provides archaeological education. "Chucalissa Museum is worth checking out if you are here," recommends Shana D. The museum showcases Native American artifacts discovered within the park boundaries and offers insight into the region's original inhabitants.
What campers like
Cultural attractions: Graceland RV Park & Campground provides easy access to Elvis Presley's home through a private entrance. "You can walk right from the RV park to the museum. There's a private gate from the campground to leads to the museum so you don't have to drive anywhere," explains Erika P. The convenience saves campers from dealing with parking at the popular attraction.
Clean facilities: EZ Daze RV Park maintains exceptionally well-kept bathrooms that campers frequently mention. "Very clean bathrooms and showers. They have two regular shower stalls which are extremely shallow and one ADA stall with pull down bench," reports Karen, who appreciates the security features: "Code to the bathrooms, which is appreciated especially as the park is located in a business area."
Family amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers extensive activities for children during peak season. "This is a huge campground and the price for a spot was at least double what we would pay elsewhere," notes Angela C., who continues, "Most of the amenities and services are located at the front of the campground and includes a store and propane, playground, dog run, pool, showers and laundry, gold mining station, and sports courts."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer humidity in Memphis can be extreme, affecting camping comfort. "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. Bug protection is essential between April and October.
Urban proximity tradeoffs: Campgrounds near Memphis often balance nature access with urban noise. At Memphis KOA, Rebecca H. mentions, "There's a smell due to the industrial zone right outside the park but, for a quick one night stay it ain't bad." Similarly, Chris notes at T.O. Fuller State Park, "Apparently there is a sewage treatment plant upwind and the odor is pretty acute depending on how the wind is blowing."
Safety considerations: Campground security varies significantly across the area.
