Tent campsites near Millington, Tennessee are primarily located at the southern edge of Arkabutla Lake, approximately 30 miles from Millington across the Mississippi state line. The area features clay soil terrain with oak and hickory forest covering rolling hills around the lake's flood control watershed. Camping locations experience hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters where overnight temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Kellys Crossing Campground attracts anglers seeking solitude. According to one camper, "This is an off the beaten path area for standard recreation. It's technically a boat ramp that accesses Arkabutla Lake with picnic and camping areas nearby."
Boat access: The primitive tent sites provide direct lake access for paddlers and boaters. At Pleasant Hill Campground, despite its drawbacks, "There is a boat ramp" that allows visitors to launch directly into Arkabutla Lake, providing water recreation opportunities for campers who bring their own watercraft.
Wildlife viewing: The relative seclusion of these camping areas creates opportunities for spotting local wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various waterfowl species that inhabit the lake area seasonally. The limited development and low visitor numbers, especially during weekdays and off-season periods, enhance wildlife viewing potential.
What campers like
Seclusion and privacy: Tent campers appreciate the lack of crowds at these primitive sites. A visitor to Kellys Crossing notes, "The positive is that you won't be fighting a lot of other campers to be able to stay here. The access to the lake is nice. Would be a good spot to go if you needed to get away for some solitude."
No reservation hassle: Both campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, eliminating the need to plan months ahead. This flexibility allows for spontaneous camping trips, particularly valuable during weekdays when sites are rarely at capacity.
Reduced costs: The primitive nature of these campgrounds keeps costs low or free. One Kellys Crossing visitor mentioned, "The fee has been reduced to free, so enjoy but be respectful!" This makes tent camping near Millington, Tennessee accessible to budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Campsites offer minimal amenities and require self-sufficiency. A visitor to Pleasant Hill Campground warned, "The newer looking (of the two on site) bathhouse is closed for some reason, but the terrible smelling vault toilet bathroom is open."
Seasonal challenges: During summer months, high humidity and temperatures create uncomfortable camping conditions without adequate shade or cooling. Winter camping requires preparation for occasional freezing temperatures, while spring brings increased likelihood of storms and potential flooding along lake edges.
Site conditions: Many tent areas show signs of neglect. Campers should inspect sites carefully before setting up. As noted in one review, "The campsites are overgrown or sunken. Looks like no one has camped here or taken care of the property in years."
Tips for camping with families
Security awareness: These remote camping locations have limited oversight. Families should practice standard safety protocols including secure food storage, awareness of surroundings, and informing others of camping plans before arrival.
Water supply planning: Neither campground provides drinking water. Families must bring sufficient water for drinking, cooking, and basic hygiene, calculating at least 1 gallon per person per day, with additional supplies during summer months.
Navigation considerations: Cell service around these campgrounds is unreliable. Families should bring physical maps and establish meeting points, as digital navigation and communication tools may not function consistently in these areas.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: These campgrounds primarily accommodate tent camping, with limited or no facilities for recreational vehicles. RVs attempting to access tent camping areas may encounter narrow access roads, tight turning radiuses, and soft ground unsuitable for heavier vehicles.
Alternative options: RVers seeking camping near Millington should consider more developed campgrounds farther away, as the primitive sites near Arkabutla Lake lack hookups, dump stations, and level parking required by most recreational vehicles.
