Reelfoot Lake State Park RV & Campground Guide
Tennessee
In 1811, a series of earthquakes ravaged the area around Reelfoot Lake State Park, causing the nearby Mississippi River to flow backward. This unexpected flow surged into the tributary Reelfoot River, flooding the surrounding forest; over the years, the ends of the river disappeared, leaving behind the Reelfoot Lake. Today, the trees still grow out of the water — you can hike through them on an elevated boardwalk or paddle through the old-growth cypress forest in a kayak. While you explore, watch out for the bald eagles that nest in the trees and soar above the lake. Tucked away in the far northwestern corner of Tennessee, this family-friendly state park is a short drive from both Kentucky and Missouri. The tiny town of Hornbeak is located right across the lake, and Tiptonville is just 9 miles down the road.
Spring 38-78 F
Summer 64-89 F
Fall 38-82 F
Winter 25-49 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Reelfoot Lake State Park
Wake up to views of calm waters and enjoy spectacular sunsets when you camp at Reelfoot Lake State Park. With an RV, you can take in the wilderness views while enjoying comforts such as a soft bed and a convenient kitchen. An RV rental from RVshare makes it easy to choose the perfect motorhome and take your camping trip to the next level.
Reelfoot Lake State Park Campgrounds
Book a site at one of the two Reelfoot Lake State Park campgrounds, and you'll always be a quick walk to the lakeshore. The South Campground is the bigger of the two, offering 86 campsites with electric and water hookups. Popular with families, this spot also offers a laundry and dishwashing area. The Airpark North Campground has 14 sites that fit RVs up to 35 feet long, each with water and electricity. Both campgrounds have bathrooms, hot showers, and a dump station. Rates vary by location, date, and amenities, but you can expect a minimum of $26.
Sunset Cove
Sunset Cove lives up to its name — located on the east side of Reelfoot Lake, it offers spectacular sunset views over the water. This campground is tailored for RVs, so every site offers full hookups and trash service. Bring your boat and launch from the on-site ramp, and enjoy the views from the open, grassy sites. Rates start at $45 per night; if you're staying a week, you'll get the seventh night for free.
Union City RV Park
Located 23 miles east of Reelfoot Lake, Union City RV Park is a great alternative spot when all of the lake's campgrounds are full. Sites here offer full hookups, so you can relax and enjoy your RV to the fullest. Hot showers make it easy to clean up after a day in the sun, and the campground's laundry room is a convenient perk. Get online quickly with the free Wi-Fi connection, and set up camp easily on the level site pads. This campground is open year-round. Campsites start at $60 per night, with great discounts available for Passport America or Recreation USA All Campgrounds For Less membership.
What to Do at
Reelfoot Lake State Park
Inside Reelfoot Lake State Park
Most of the activities at Reelfoot Lake State Park center on the lake itself. Boating is the perfect way to explore the submerged forest; you can even rent canoes and kayaks from the park. Alternatively, you can launch your own boat on the water at one of the park's five ramps. You can fish for crappie and bluegill from the docks or bring your binoculars and watch for the bald eagles and pelicans that live around the lake. Several short, easy hiking trails lead you through the forest — the 0.5-mile Visitor Center Boardwalk Trail is particularly beautiful.
Outside Reelfoot Lake State Park
Reelfoot Lake State Park is tucked between the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge and the Reelfoot State Wildlife Management Area; if you're in the mood for quiet wilderness activities, opportunities abound. The Mississippi River flows just a few miles to the west, offering impressive views and both water and land activities. If you're in the mood for shopping or dining, you'll find plenty of options in the small towns that sit within 30 minutes of the park.
Restaurants
Boyette's Dining Room
Ditch the diet when you visit Boyette's Dining Room — with a menu packed with fried chicken, deep-fried fish, and hush puppies, this is a place that's made for indulgence. Make sure to leave room for the delicious side dishes.
Type: American
Location: 10 Boyette Rd, Tiptonville, TN 38079
Pit Barbecue
There's nothing fancy about Pit Barbecue, but the food is so good that you won't mind the casual vibe. Dig into a rack of ribs or barbecue pork accompanied by classic sides, including baked beans and deep-fried onion rings.
Type: Barbecue
Location: 3970 TN-21, Tiptonville, TN 38079
El Potrillo Mexican Restaurant
When you're craving a smothered burrito and a side of rice and beans after a day in the sun, head straight to El Potrillo Mexican Restaurant. Friendly and relaxed, this eatery will leave you feeling full and happy.
Type: Mexican
Location: 202 Carl Perkins Pkwy, Tiptonville, TN 38079
Lakeview Dining Room
As its name suggests, the Lakeview Dining Room is a lovely place to eat with a view of Reelfoot Lake. The menu features all-American classics, including hearty egg breakfasts, sandwiches, and meat-and-potatoes dinners.
Type: American
Location: 3550 TN-21, Tiptonville, TN 38079
Blue Bank Fish House & Grill
Grab a patio table at the Blue Bank Fish House & Grill and enjoy your meal overlooking the water. Start with a beer and an appetizer of catfish bites, and move on to an entrée of fish or shrimp. You'll also find a small selection of non-seafood items for variety.
Type: Seafood
Location: 813 Lake Dr, Hornbeak, TN 38232
Shopping
Reelfoot Outdoors
Pick up all of the supplies you need for hunting and fishing at Reelfoot Outdoors. If you're looking for insider fishing tips, the business also offers a guide service.
Location: 3330 TN-21, Tiptonville, TN 38079
Reelfoot Quik Shop & Lodge
Whether you need live bait or a new reel of fishing line, Reelfoot Quik Shop & Lodge is the place to go. Make sure to chat with the friendly staff; they're a wealth of knowledge about fishing locally.
Location: 2530 TN-21 East, Tiptonville, TN 38079
Food Rite
If you're heading to a campground at Reelfoot Lake State Park, stop at Food Rite for your RV kitchen. It's the closest grocery store to the park, and it carries everything you need for a weekend or longer.
Location: 790 Everett St, Tiptonville, TN 38079
Sightseeing
Lake Isom National Wildlife Refuge
Learn about Tennessee's natural environment at the Lake Isom National Wildlife Refuge. Known for its exceptional wildlife-watching opportunities, it's a lovely spot to relax in nature. A series of interpretive signs line the self-guided walking path, so you can learn about the area at your own pace.
Location: 4343 Hwy 157, Union City, TN 38261
Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge
You don't have to go far to get to the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge; it's located adjacent to Reelfoot Lake State Park. Stop in the beautiful visitor center to discover more about the lake's fascinating history — then head out onto the refuge's many boardwalks for a relaxing stroll through the sunken forest. Climb up to the observation decks to look out over the water, and make sure to look out for the local eagles. Canoeing, fishing, and photography are all popular activities you can do within the refuge.
Location: 4343 TN-157, Union City, TN 38261
Donaldson Point Conservation Area
Head across the Mississippi River to Donaldson Point Conservation Area, a beautiful wilderness area in Missouri. Popular with anglers, birdwatchers, hunters, and trappers, it offers solitude and natural beauty. Hike and bike the trails; just make sure to check local hunting season regulations before you set out.
Location: County Road 404, New Madrid, MO 63869
Emmett Lewis Memorial Heritage Center & Museum
Discover the history of Tiptonville and Reelfoot Lake at the Emmett Lewis Memorial Heritage Center & Museum. This small museum, which is located inside the Tiptonville City Hall, explores the local area's natural history and connection to the Civil War.
Location: 130 S Court St, Tiptonville, TN 38079
How to Get to
Reelfoot Lake State Park
Reelfoot Lake State Park extends for miles along the shore of Reelfoot Lake. To get to the visitor center, drive to Tiptonville using TN-78 or TN-22. Then, take Lake Drive east until you reach the lake; head south on TN-21 until you see the sign for the park.
Entering Reelfoot Lake State Park
Reelfoot Lake State Park is open seven days a week. The park opens 30 minutes before sunrise and closes 30 minutes after sunset.
Per person : $0
You'll make memories that last a lifetime when you take an RV adventure to Reelfoot Lake State Park. If you don't have an RV of your own, rent one with RVshare! If you share your trip photos on social media, be sure to tag us, or send them to [email protected] for a chance to be featured on our blog.