Camping spots near Dyersburg, Tennessee predominantly sit within Tennessee's western lowlands, where the average elevation ranges between 250-300 feet above sea level. The region experiences hot, humid summers with average July temperatures around 90°F and mild winters with January lows near 30°F. Spring camping regularly contends with Mississippi River flooding cycles that can temporarily limit site availability at campgrounds throughout the region.
What to do
Boat tours for wildlife viewing: Take advantage of pontoon tours offered at Reelfoot Lake State Park Campgrounds. "We 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. The history of Reelfoot is interesting, parts of the tour feel like you are in a cypress swamp, not a lake. Saw 10 bald eagles, osprey, egret, blue heron," reports one visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Reelfoot Lake provides exceptional fishing opportunities with multiple access points. The lake is known for crappie, bluegill, and catfish. Many campers bring their own boats, but local rentals are available through nearby outfitters for around $80 per day. "Grey's bait shop offers boat rentals for $80 a day," notes one camper.
Historic exploration: Fort Pillow Historic State Park Campground offers Civil War history alongside camping. "Nice hiking trails but trail to the old fort wasn't clearly marked and difficult to follow, use a map," advises one visitor. The park includes a museum and interpretive trails explaining the site's significance. "The visitors center/museum was a bunker style building built into the side of the hill. Great exhibit and lots of info on the battle and fort at Fort Pillow."
What campers like
Quiet off-peak seasons: Fall and early winter provide more peaceful camping experiences at South Campground — Reelfoot Lake State Park. "This was a 1 night stay, just passing through. Glad we found this gem. Mid week in October, so the campground was 1/4 full. Our site was just steps away from the beautiful lake," one camper reported about their fall visit to the region.
Well-maintained facilities: Several campgrounds offer clean, modern facilities. "The campground was laid out well in the fact that you didn't feel crowded at all, even when there were lots of campers. We were in site 45 with a 33 ft travel trailer and had plenty of room. Nice walk for our dog and grassy areas also. Showers were clean but nowhere to put toiletries except on the dressing area bench... but that was okay. It was all tiled also."
Waterfowl viewing: The region's wetlands attract diverse bird populations that campers frequently mention as highlights. "We camped here for 2 nights on the weekend... The lake is very beautiful. We saw pelicans, bald eagles, and herons," shares one visitor. Winter and early spring offer prime eagle watching opportunities throughout the Reelfoot Lake area.
What you should know
Site flooding concerns: Low-lying areas experience frequent flooding that affects campsite availability. "We arrived before 4:45 but everything closed at 4:30- offices, visitor center etc. No one answered phone #s nor gave any after-hour access information. From what we could see the campsites appeared flooded and a lot of construction," reports one visitor to Airpark North Campground — Reelfoot Lake State Park.
Snake presence: Waterfront sites frequently report snake sightings, especially during warmer months. "Beware the lake has a lot of snakes, so if you are in a lake front campsite you are more likely to see snakes. And the sights along the leg from 23 24 25 up to 68 and on down to the seventies on the map looks like it's lake front but it's actually backed with wooded overgrowth."
Seasonal office hours: Multiple campgrounds maintain limited office hours that can complicate check-in for late arrivals. "Apparently the office at the campground closes everyday from 12p-1p for lunch." Some campgrounds use self-check-in systems, but instructions may not be clearly posted for after-hours arrivals.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Serendipity Resort offers recreational amenities specifically designed for families. "We were there for 3 days and my kids used the water park. They had a blast on the jumpers and got very wore out. The water park is a $20 charge a piece on the first day and goes down to $10 a day for the rest of your stay."
Screen tents essential: The mosquito activity requires additional protection measures during summer months. "Mosquitoes were the big downfall. Just be prepared. We put up a screen tent as well as having bug spray," advises a camper at South Campground.
Ranger programs: Seek out scheduled ranger activities for educational opportunities. "Ranger Tyson informed us that they were doing a night hike to the Fort and they would be serving Gumbo for dinner around the campfire at the Fort. Sign me up! It was one of the fee based activities, but for $5 per person, it was totally worth it! Tyson and Matt were awesome and the evening hike was surprisingly very cool!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: For larger rigs, investigate specific sites before booking. "The roads do narrow down a bit when first coming in so be prepared to watch your corners," warns a visitor to Serendipity Resort. At Fort Pillow State Park, "The inner loop of the primary campground has been updated with new concrete and gravel and 2 sites (I think 6,8) are ADA accessible."
Overnight convenience: Lady Luck Casino and RV Park provides a convenient overnight option for travelers. "Paved lots, close together, has tables and outside grills. Very clean. RV stay is $40.00/NIGHT. GIVES $5.00 Good Sam discount. First come first serve. Is located at Century Casino. Quiet and peaceful park. It is 5:30 pm on Saturday and plenty of empty spots."
Electrical capacity: Check amperage availability when reserving sites, as options vary widely between campgrounds. "They have changed the name, it's now Century Casino. Paved pull through with hook ups, there where several out of commission but nice clean quite spot. The wifi did not work, good place for an overnight, my dogs got to chase rabbits and walk along the river. Cost $66 for the night."
