Best Tent Camping near Memphis, TN
Tent campgrounds near Memphis, Tennessee are primarily found in state parks and recreation areas surrounding Sardis Lake in northern Mississippi, approximately 30-60 miles southeast of the city. Beach Point and Elmers Hill offer tent-specific camping options with waterfront views of Sardis Lake. Both locations feature basic amenities for primitive camping experiences without electrical hookups or modern facilities.
Tent sites at these campgrounds typically feature dirt or gravel surfaces with minimal improvements. Most locations provide picnic tables and fire rings, though fire restrictions may apply seasonally. Access varies significantly between locations, with some sites like Beach Point requiring campers to park in a lot and carry equipment to walk-in tent sites. According to one visitor, "Cars stay in the parking lot, and you walk up to your site. Pretty basic. Running water, flushable toilets, no showers." Drinking water availability is inconsistent across campgrounds, with Elmers Hill offering potable water while other locations require campers to bring their own supply.
Primitive tent camping areas like Kellys Crossing and Graham Lake provide more secluded options for those seeking solitude. These campgrounds feature fewer amenities but offer quieter experiences away from developed areas. A review mentioned that Kellys Crossing is "an off the beaten path area for standard recreation" with "picnic and camping areas nearby." Most tent-only sites in the region have vault toilets or basic restroom facilities, though maintenance quality varies significantly. Graham Lake offers approximately five primitive sites suitable for tent campers but not larger rigs or RVs. The proximity to water at many of these campgrounds provides scenic views and recreational opportunities, though seasonal insect activity can be challenging. Tent campers should prepare for variable conditions and limited facilities, especially during off-peak seasons when some amenities may be closed.
