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Campground Reviews South
The South was the first destination on
this long Journey of ours! With our home state of Michigan and
much of the North blanketed under a massive ice storm, we couldn't get
Even here the highs were only in the low
50's, but this was swimming weather to us Northerners. Every Miles
a Memory got its name by not having to be anywhere fast, and if there is
one thing I can say about our trip south, it wasn't fast. I think
all those years of seeing how quick we could
make it from Michigan to Florida for Spring Break (My Record is 17
hours) made me want to see how long it could take to drive around and
not have to be anywhere in a hurry. With that in mind, we didn't put down the prices as to what we paid for the campgrounds we stayed in all the time. Most of the prices fluctuate due to tourist seasons and holidays, so if we do list the price, don't quote us on it.
If the campground has a website, we tried to provide
you with a link. If it's available, then you should just be able
to click on the campground name and their site will pop up. Arkansas
Blue Water Resort,
Peel, Arkansas Facilities Available: Pool, Store, 30 amp full hook-up, cottages available, boat ramp Comments: Great people, nice area to stay in with a sensational view of Bull Shoals lake and spectacular sunset. The lot was huge, the only thing was it was kind of hard to get level due to the hill side we were on. It made it worth while when the sun went down and the view was great. This is not your normal type of campground. It was really far away from civilization and it seemed more like you were a neighbor instead of a guest. We actually thought we were in Missouri and when we told the Owner how much we liked Arkansas, he said "Well when you turned back down that road, you came back into Arkansas" It skirts the border of both states.
Would We Return?: Most definitely
Daisy
State Park, on Lake
Greeson in Kirby, Arkansas Facilities Available: Daisy State Park facilities include 103 campsites; picnic areas, a standard pavilion (screened) with restrooms, launch ramps, hiking trails, a playground, and a motorcycle/mountain bike/ATV trail. Big, clean hot shower facilities with flush toilets. The RV sites feature paved pads, picnic tables, fire rings and BBQ grills. Very wooded with almost all of the sites being under full shade. Comments: This State Park is situated on giant Lake Greeson. The Lake itself is huge and rumored one of the best fishing lakes in the state. We stayed here for a few nights and used it at Base Camp for kayaking the Caddo River and exploring the surrounding area. Glenwood is only a short drive down the road which is home to Billy's House of Guitars. Would We Return?: I wouldn't make a special trip just for this park. We aren't that into fishing and it's pretty far out in the boonies. __________________________________________________________________________
Devils Den
State Park, West Fork, Arkansas Facilities Available: Devils Den State Park facilities include 150 campsites that range anywhere from tent sites, hike-in sites, RV sites with only electric and full hook-up sites with water, sewer and electric. There is a nice picnic area right along Lee Creek, pavilions with restrooms, multiple hiking trails, a playground for the brats, and a restaurant and pool that is open during the summer season. The RV sites feature paved pads, picnic tables, fire rings and BBQ grills. Very wooded with almost all of the sites being under full shade for those of us who have Solar Panels. For those RVer's who might want to make this a family vacation destination, the Devils Den State Park also offers 18 full equipped cabins that range anywhere from one bedroom to three bedroom luxurious accommodations with hot tub and fireplace. Comments: This State Park is nestled on the Western most section of the Ozark National Forest. Its a small park at only 2500 acres, but offers plenty to do and keep any camper busy outdoors. Check out our Devils Den Gallery to see what types of photos you'll return home with. There are numerous hiking trails to suit any level of hiker, paddle boats to spend the afternoon on the calm waters of Lee Creek, and a pool, visitors center and restaurant open during the summer season. We were here before they opened these last few items, so we cant comment on them, but they looked very nice and inviting. Would We Return?: Yes, in a second. This park is perfect and offers exactly what we're looking for when it comes to camping in a designated campground area. Comfortable spaces to camp in nestled in the woods with multiple choices of ammenties to choose from. They offer tent camping sites all the way up to full-hook up's with electric, water and sewer. __________________________________________________________________________
Dogwood Springs Campground,
Jasper Arkansas (870) 446-2163 Facilities Available: All of the RV sites are full hook-up sites with water, electric and sewer, 38-channel TV cable, all 20- and 30‑amp electric. They had a number of LARGE PREMIUM sites with 30-amp or 50-amp available with long pull-thru's. Some sites have covered tables, all sites have picnic tables and fire pits. They also offer cabins of various sizes, pool, hot showers and flush toilets. Ice, firewood and a Playground. Large mature trees so most of the sites were under full shade, probably the reason for so many Ticks. Comments: This was a small campground that was nice and secluded. Very shaded and loaded with ticks!! I've never seen so many ticks in my life?!?! It minutes from the quaint little town of Jasper, and really the only RV park in town. If you're kayaking the Buffalo River, this is the spot to stay. The little mountain town of Jasper is really cool and funky and there is plenty of hiking possibilities in the area.
Would We Return?: Yes
Eureka Springs
Music Place , Eureka
Springs Arkansas Facilities Available: Restroom are available if you ask them? 30/50 amp with full hookups, lots of stages for music festivals. Close proximity to downtown Eureka Springs. There is a cave on site with some neat hiking trails. Comments: This was a strange set up. Every time we came home at night, and sometimes during the day, we would pass this place. There was very little signage and it was set off to the side of the road and was un-lit. We the only camper there and it looked like they hadn't opened for the season yet. The nice manager told me she could prime the restrooms if I needed them but they aren't ready for use yet. The lots were level, partially shaded and the property had three big stages located though out the 100 acre farm. It seems as though camp sites were an after thought. It was nice and private anyway.
Would We Return?:
Definitely if we were attending a music
festival or we just wanted some privacy while in the Eureka Springs
area.
Gulpha Gorge Campground,
Hot Springs, Arkansas Facilities Available: With 43 campsites available with Water & Electric, fire rings, picnic tables and BBQ Grills, this campground is the closest one to the downtown Hot Springs area. It is literally right on the backside of the park, with the back of the campground being a sheer wall of the backside of the mountain. At only $10 a night, it cant be beat. The sites are paved and Gulpha Gorge Campground has hot showers with flush toilets. There is no attendant, you just simple go inside a room and either put cash or a credit card into an ATM looking machine, and it spits out your receipt for your campsite. It has a dump station available at the entrance also. Almost all of the sites are under full shade. Comments: There is nothing wrong with this park, especially for only $10 a night. It has a nice stream flowing right along the back side and it's only minutes from Downtown. Our only problem with it was for the 2 days we stayed here, it rained non-stop. Every time we would leave the area, it would be nice every where else? The area seemed like it held a cloud above it on the backside of the mountain?? The slots are very close together, so plan on getting cozy with your neighbor, or spending lots of time in town. For $10, you cant complain much and it's the closest campground to the downtown area.
Would We Return?: If nothing else was available at
Lake Catherine State Park, which is about 20 minutes out of town,
but much nicer and right on a beautiful lake!
Heber Springs Dam Campground,
Heber Springs, Arkansas Facilities Available: Flush toilet, pit showers, hook ups with electric and water, some with out electric and water, boat dock and marina, store. Mature Trees on some site with others in full sun. SO you have your pick depending on what you prefer. Comments: We were here on the first of May so the park was not really open yet. Level lots, fire pit with grill tops and you could walk to the boat docks. The only negative thing I can say is I didn't like the fact that they had no trash receptacles at all, we packed it out with us. Maybe they put them in during the season? I'm sure during season, this park must be busy as they had hundreds of sites with most being right above the water with just a short hike down to the banks of Greers Ferry Lake.
Would We Return?: No, only because there was nothing to do
unless you are an avid boater or fisherman.
Kyle's Landing, 5
Miles West of Jasper Arkansas on the Buffalo River Facilities Available: Drinking water (Apr.-Oct.), flush toilets, fire grates, picnic tables, river access. (Open year-round) NOTE: Not recommended for large trailers, buses or RVs due to rough, steep and winding 2 miles of road to get to campground. Comments: This was one of our favorite campgrounds because of the beautiful views and the Buffalo River access! Now here is a side note, I'd never recommend this campground to anyone with an RV. That little note that says - NOT RECOMMENDED FOR RV's - Well they weren't lying. Talking to a few locals, they had said "Oh don't worry, you can make it down that road" Well you should read our May Blogs to see what type of road and entrance we made into this beautiful campground after almost burning the brakes and transmission on this 14% grade. Once down there, everything was fine, but getting out was even harder than the scary ride down.
Would We Return?:
For Sure, we just wouldn't come down with
a 25' Travel Trailer in Tow.
Lake Catherine State Park,
Hot Springs, Arkansas Facilities Available: 68 Campsites with paved pads, fire pits, BBQ Grills, Water & Electric are available. There are bath rooms with flush toilets, hot showers, laundry facilities, a club house, boat ramp and seasonal marina open during the summer. The park also offers 18 cabins with full kitchens and wood burning fireplaces. The parks cabins were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's. The RV sites offer a mix of sun and shade depending on what you like. They also had Recycling Bins for Aluminum Cans!! Comments: This park is only minutes outside of Downtown Hot Springs and it's a shame we found it on our last night in the area. We actually tried to stay longer because of this park, but we stayed on a Thursday night and they said they were full for the weekend. Our site was right on the lake with a little dock to fish off of. The camp sites are spread out with plenty of space between them which makes you feel like you don't have any neighbors. If you're ever in the Hot Springs area, this is the place to stay!!
Would We Return?: If we ever go back to Hot Springs, this
is the only place we'd stay
Mount Magazine
State Park, Paris, Arkansas Facilities Available: 18 campsites (2 with 50amp) the rest with 30amp and water available. All sites are level, paved pads with picnic tables and BBQ grills. Most of the sites were very shaded being situated in the woods. There are clean bathrooms with flush toilets and showers available and hiking trails that leave right from the campground to scenic Vistas. The Visitors Center offers a nice exhibit, gift shop and has a very limited amount of supplies available. There is also a beautiful lodge that offers 60 guest rooms the skycrest restaurant, a conference center, business center, indoor heated pool, fitness center and a game room. There are also 13 fully equipped cabins that offer sweeping views off the top of the mountain. Featuring one, two and three bedroom designs, the cabins offer fully equipped kitchens, fireplaces, a bathroom for each bedroom and covered decks with outdoor hot tubs facing the view from the bluff. Comments: I know they say Petit Jean State Park is the Flagship Park of Arkansas, but I'd bet Mount Magazine is running a very close second. The views alone from the many look-outs offer some of the best scenery the State has to offer. There are great hiking trails, waterfalls and Mount Magazine offers some of the states most technical rock climbing around. When the conditions are right, there is an area that brings in Hang Gliders to soar off the steep cliffs of Arkansas's tallest mountain. Would We Return?: Yes, for sure. This is a destination campground if there ever was one. __________________________________________________________________________
Petit Jean
State Park, Morrilton, Arkansas
Facilities Available:
Petit Jean State Park has 125 individual campsites, with 26 being
pull-through sites, offering water and electrical hook-ups. 35 of the
sites have 50 amp Electric & Sewer. All sites are reservable year round.
Sites are divided into 4 areas with modern bathhouses in each. There is
also a 44-unit rally style camping area available for camping clubs. A
reservable Group Camp Area is available year round with heated bathhouse
in the winter months. A dump station is available also. Comments: This is Arkansas's Flagship State Park and the Natural States first, and it shows. This park has everything a park can offer. From hiking on various trails with different skill levels, to fishing, swimming, boating or just relaxing. We stayed a few days and hiked the Cedar Falls trail which is beautiful, fished the lake and just relaxed some. This area of Arkansas is beautiful and will keep any outdoor enthusiast busy with plenty of activities.
Would We Return?: Yes, for sure. This is a destination
campground if there ever was one.
Queen Wilhelmina
State Park,
Mena Arkansas Facilities Available: Queen Wilhelmina State Park offers 41 campsites. 35 of them are nice level paved pads that offer water and Electric for RV's. 5 of them offer level paved pads with a nice area for tents. The tent sites also offer water spigots on each campsite. Almost all of the sites are shaded and right on the edge of a big mountain, so expect some high winds. One campsite is a hike-in tent site only which is along one of the hiking trails offered. There is also a beautiful lodge with 37 guest rooms, a restaurant and gift shop. There are numerous hikes offered and the lodge/campground is situated right along the Talimena Scenic Drive, a National Scenic Byway that travels from Arkansas to Oklahoma. Comments: Queen Wilhelmina State Park is known as Arkansas's Castle in the Clouds and is a great stopping point for road trips along the beautiful Talimena Scenic Byway. We stayed here for only one night and had an experience like no other and one we'll never forget. Cindy had just finished cooking dinner and we were inside trying to escape the onslaught of gnats that were swarming as they do in the early spring. I noticed the dog who was sleeping on the couch look up with her ears perked up so I looked out the screen door to see what she was looking at. This was when I pushed my nose against the screen door and felt the breath of a 300lb black bear that also had his nosed pressed against our screen! We had always heard about black bears in the Ozarks, but we just thought they were wives tales. The park is great and a perfect place to rest the weary traveler. Would We Return?: Yes, a great small park secluded in the hills, and right above the little town of Mena which will have any type of supplies you would need if needing to restock your cabinets. __________________________________________________________________________
River Road Campground,
Fourche
LaFave River below Nimrod Dam, Plainview AR Facilities Available: River Road Campground offers 15 sites with Water & Electric hook-ups. The sites were asphalt surfaced and somewhat level. There was a bath house with heated showers and clean flush toilets. There is a boat launch for the Fourche LaFave River at the campground also. Picnic tables, BBQ Grills, fire rings supplied at each site and a Dump Station is available. Very shaded with almost all of the sites being under full shade. Comments: We only stayed for one night as we were heading towards Petit Jean State Park for the weekend. This park was very small and quiet, very shaded and right on the Fourche LaFave River which is fed from Nimrod Lake. The park sits right beside the Nimrod Dam, has some hiking trails around the dam and great fishing on the lake. This was one of the only parks we've stayed in that had a Ranger circle the park a few different times at night with his search light on making sure only Registered campers were in the park. I guess a little added security is a good thing.
Would We Return?: Yes, a great small park secluded in the
hills, and right off of scenic Highway 7.
Sylamore
Creek Campground, Sylamore Creek,
Arkansas Facilities Available: Sylamore Creek Campground has a little bit of everything depending what you're looking for. They have full hook-up sites above the creek, Electric & Water sites right on the creek, a bunch of cabins, and tent sites scattered throughout the campground. They have a little store that sells fishing supplies and convenience items. The sites each had fire rings, BBQ grills, picnic tables and were somewhat level. There is also hot showers and flush toilets and plenty of activities for kids or grownups who like to act like kids. The sites range from full sun to completely shaded depending what you're looking for. There is a dump station at the front of the park if you need it. Comments: We stayed here while visiting Blanchard Springs Caverns and kayaking the White River down in Calico Rock. This campground is also only minutes from Mountain Home, which is the Folk Music capitol of the world. Sylamore Creek Campground is situated right on the creek and the lower part has some beautiful scenery. You have a giant rock face with the creek at the bottom as your backdrop, and during the week it was very quiet and nice. Once the weekend hit, the place filled up and kids came crawling out of the woodwork. Not that we minded, there are plenty of things in this area to keep you busy and on the go from sun up to sun down.
Would We Return?: Yes! We actually met with a realtor
to look for property in this area, its just that beautiful.
Tom Sawyer's RV
Park, West Memphis,
Arkansas (870) 735-9770 Facilities Available: Tom Sawyer's RV sites are long easy access pull-through with 30 and 50 AMP power, city water and city sewer. You have the choice of either a concrete or level gravel site. They do have several back-in sites for those RVers who like a lot of shade. They also have tent sites available. Pet friendly with plenty of nature trails and open fields to walk your dog. The restrooms have hot showers and are clean and well kept. Best of all, they provide laundry facilities and wireless internet at no additional charge! All taxes are included with the prices which was another nice feature. Coming in the Fall of 2007, they are opening 21 new 5th Wheel pull-through river sites that will utilize your large rear picture window giving you a panoramic view of the mighty Mississippi River. Picnic tables on each site. Comments: If you're coming to visit the Memphis area, this campground is ideal, as it's only a few minutes from downtown, but still keeps you out of the heavy traffic of the area. It's right on the Mississippi River, and there was a constant breeze when we stayed. What s surprise that they offered FREE LAUNDRY facilities!! If only every campground was to do this. The people at the front desk were very nice and helpful to area attractions. Even though the city is called West Memphis, this campground is actually on the Arkansas side of the Mississippi. There weren't too many mature trees yet, so plan on being in full sun.
Would We Return?: Yes, this is the spot to stay while visiting
the Memphis area.
White Buffalo
Resort & Campground,
Buffalo City, AR (870) 425-8555 Facilities Available: The White Buffalo Resort is just that, a fishing and outdoorsman paradise! The resort has a few full hook-up sites for RV's, but has plenty of sites with just Water & Electric that are shaded and right on the White River. They have a dump station for those sites that don't have full hook-up availability. From a full service store, bait & tackle shop, Pool, Hot Showers, Laundromat, an abundance of outdoor activities and over 30 acres of property on the White River, this Campground is beautiful. The White Buffalo has small cabins for those fisherman who just want a place to lay their head after a long day on the water, but it also has these large cabins with multiple bedrooms loaded with every amenity available. From a full service guide shop, to boat rentals to over night shuttling on the White or the Buffalo rivers, this resort has it all. Comments: We came to the White Buffalo Resort after hearing a few locals talk of it in the lower part of the state. We planned on fishing while floating down the White River and just using this as our home base. Let me just say "The resort is beautiful!!" The campsites are right along the water and as peaceful as you could imagine. The scenery is breath taking and we stayed a few more days than we had planned on just to try and absorb it all. The owners are so nice it's hard to stop talking with them. One of the owners gave us so many hints on local attractions, hiking, paddling, fishing tips along with local tricks and places to check out, I had to get out a piece of paper to write it all down. We'll say again, some campgrounds you stay at just for a place to sleep, then others you feel like you're home when the owners go out of their way to make sure you're comfortable.
Would We Return?: Yes!! We've been trying to find a
spot that our entire family can meet us, and this just might be the
place. When you talk with other RVers in the campground that say
they've been coming back twice a year for the last 8 years, you know
this place is good.
White Oak Lake State Park,
Bluff City, Arkansas Facilities Available: White Oak Lake State Park facilities include 45 campsites with Water & Electric; a store with supplies, bait and gifts (open throughout the year); marina with boat rentals; launch ramp; barrier-free fishing pier; standard pavilion; picnic sites; hiking trails, and a playground. The park also has a Dump Station, hot showers and Flush Toilets. The sites are level with picnic tables, fire rings and BBQ Grills. You have your choice of shaded or full sun sites with some right on the water while others are secluded in the woods. Comments: This was our first State Park in Arkansas, and we couldn't believe how nice it was. At first we thought we were lost, as it's so far out into the boondocks. Then once we found it, we stayed for 3 days longer than we planned on. During the week, we had the park all to ourselves with only 2 other campers, but by Friday afternoon, the place filled up to capacity. So if you plan on staying here, you might want to make reservations in advance. White Oak Lake is very secluded and by the amount of local fishermen that came in for the weekend, I'm sure home to some real lunkers. The Rangers were very nice and came by several times to check on us and just offer suggestions on kayaking, hiking and fishing. Would We Return?: Yes, for sure! _________________________________________________________________________ Florida
Carrabelle Palms RV Park, Carrabelle Beach, Florida Facilities Available: 97 Pull Through Sites, with Full hook-ups. 30/50amp service, cable, phone, Wi-Fi, Pool, Convenience Store, Work out room, Laundry, Bath houses with flush toilets. The sites and roads are all gravel, but they are level. There were plenty of trees, just not too many mature ones to provide shade. Maybe in a few years. Comments: Located right across from Carrabelle Beach and only minutes from St. George Island State Park. The campground was fine, but the beach was one of the dirtiest ones I've ever been on. I'd love to meet the ignorant tourists that left so much litter on a beautiful white sand beach!! This has nothing to do with the RV Campground, but the city should enforce the fines on littering!! We stayed here so we could go to St. George Island which is a secluded, huge state park that was empty of tourists!! We had miles of white sand beaches all to ourselves.
Would We Return?: Yes
Castaways Resort & Tiki Bar, Cedar Key, Florida Facilities Available: Full Hook-ups with only a 50 amp service available, but Dan the owner had a converter if you needed one. There are only 3 RV sites available as this is a small 5 room Motel/Tiki Bar. You park in the Grass beside the Motel and back right up to the water on level ground. There is no shade to speak of so make sure your awning works!! Comments: This isn't really an RV Park, it's a few slips on the side of the road. But in Cedar Key, it's perfect. Your slip backs right up to the water which has some of the best Sunsets, we've ever seen. You're a short bicycle ride into town which is what they like to call "A Fishing Town With A Drinking Problem" as every other shop is either a bar or a bait shop. Dan the Owner of Castaways made our stay so enjoyable, offering to be a tour guide and show us which bars were the best. He even drove us in his vehicle and had a Designated Driver arranged to get us home safely!! What more could you ask for from a Host?! Don't get your hopes up thinking Cedar Key is a big resort area, it's a small, fishing village, but that's the charm that makes us want to go back.
Would We Return?: Yes, this was one of our favorite places to
stay!!
John Prince Park State Park, Lake Worth, Florida Facilities Available: Electric & Water, Dump station and the first campground to have Recycling Bins!! Way to go South Florida Parks System!! Depending on the yearly budget, they are updating sites to Full Hook-ups a few at a time. You might want to ask what's available when you make reservations because at the time we stayed, they had already converted many sites to full hook-ups. Boat dock, Ice Machine, Bath Houses with Flush toilets. This was also the first park we stayed at that provided a Honey Wagon. If you were staying in one of the sites that only had Water & Electric, You made arrangements a day in advance, and a guy on a tractor towing a big tank would empty your holding tanks so you wouldn't have to pack up and move to empty your Black/Grey tanks. Best $6 I ever spent!! Comments: This park was beautiful, located right near everything and easy access to I-95 or Florida's Turnpike. It's also right on a lake, with plenty of birds, alligators and wildlife to see. Some sites are concrete slabs, some are gravel, some are pull through while some were nestled in between mature trees, but they all were level. The park is also fenced in with a security guard and a gated entrance. The only negative thing I could say about this park, is it is located right beside a small airport that had quite a bit of air traffic, especially helicopters coming and going at all times of the day. But for the nice breeze off the water, only minutes from the beach and downtown Lake Worth or West Palm Beach, that was easily overlooked.
Would We Return?: Yes, in a second!! One of our
favorite parks for it's central location to all of South Florida's
attractions.
Rock Crusher Canyon Campground, Crystal River, Florida Facilities Available: This is another one of those parks that has everything you could ask for. Full Hook-ups, but only 50amp service, so you'll need a 50-30 converter if you're only traveling with a Travel Trailer like us. Plenty of bath houses with hot showers and flush toilets, multiple laundry facilities throughout the park, heated screened-in pool, Hot Tub, secluded fishing pond and a beach area. There is a work out room and a Rec. Room with Wi-Fi service available and the entire park is fenced in with a security guard and a gated entrance. This park also picked your trash up right at your campsite every morning. Comments: Great campground with smaller lots, but nicely shaded with plenty of trees so you didn't feel like you were right on top of your neighbor. There were plenty of things to do if you don't want to leave the campground, but I don't think this would be a good campground to bring a camper full of kids. While staying on the West Coast of Florida, we had some family members visit and kept the niece and nephew with us for a few nights, and the rules were strictly enforced in the pool area towards the kids. Campground is perfect for day trips to Homosassa Springs were we saw so many Manatee, Dolphin and birds, we lost count. Most everyone was very friendly, but the person that worked the front entrance, (the one you see the most) was very rude and unhelpful. There's always a bad apple in the bunch.
Would We Return?: Yes, we had a very pleasant experience here.
Stage Stop
Campground, Winter Garden, Florida Facilities Available: Full Hook-ups, Cable, Pool, Laundry, Rec. Room Comments: Some campgrounds you stay in you never need to leave. They have everything on site to keep you busy and entertained. Then some you just drop the RV off and get out as soon as you can. This was one of those! It was entertaining to see $500,000 motor coaches parked beside a short school bus converted into an RV that was up on blocks. Some residents lived here year-round, while others like us just needed a place to stay for the night so we could visit with family in Orlando. While RV Parks in Orlando were charging $60 to $80 per night, this was only a 20 minute drive and was only $26 per night. You get what you pay for. Very un-kept grounds area, and the amount of dog poop left around the campsites was disgusting, although it was hard to notice in the knee high grass.
Would We Return?: Not unless we had to.
South Hurricane
Lake Recreation Area,
Milton, Florida Facilities: Restrooms, Boat Ramp, Potable Water in select areas Comments: This campground was beautiful, located on somewhat of an island on secluded Hurricane Lake. We stayed in the primitive sites for $5 a night since the full service side of the park was full. The sights weren't so level, but you can make due for the view (Hey that rhymes) We sat by a blazing fire of pine cones for most of the nights we stayed. The pine trees left cones that were 6-10 inches long and the girth of a two liter and they littered the ground everywhere. So burning material was prevalent. The beautiful Blackwater River was only minutes from this campground and the reason we were here. The locals told us there was great fishing on the lake, but all warned us to keep the dogs away from the edges of the lake because of the alligators. You know I had them chained up there after I heard that...Just Kidding!
Would We Return?:
Yes Georgia
Crooked
River State Park, St. Mary's, Georgia Facilities Available: 62 sites available with Water & Electric. They have a Dump Station but no Full Hook-ups available. There is a boat ramp located on the site, some nature trails, cottages for rent and some picnic shelters available. Comments: Nice park spaced out between mature trees with both sun and shaded spots available. You park on the grass, so make sure you have boards for leveling, even though the sites are pretty level to start with. You're right on the river and have nice trails to walk around, but not too much to see other than the local armadillos. We stayed here while visiting Cumberland Island State Park, and if you own your own boat/kayak/canoe, you can leave right from the park and paddle the few miles to the island. Make sure to check out our galleries from this trip, as we spotted plenty of the wild horses that roam the island, dozens of armadillos, dolphins jumping in our boat wake and spent the day exploring the ruins left on the island! Caution: This was another campsite where the Ticks are everywhere!!
Would We Return?:
Yes!! We plan on coming back at some point and staying in this
campground so we can paddle over to the island for a few
days of exploring on the water.
Rivers End
RV & Campground, Tybee Island, Georgia Facilities Available: Rivers End has approximately 100 sites that have full hook-up's with sewer, cable, water and electric, and some primitive camp sites. They offer a free internet room during the office hours and free Wi-Fi for those who need to catch-up on emails from their RV. The sites are gravel but somewhat level and most are pull-thru's. They also have laundry facilities available and a pool. Comments: Rivers End was a nice little park within walking distance from the beach and the Historic Tybee Island Lighthouse. Only a short drive from Downtown Savannah, it is the perfect campground for anyone who is visiting the beautiful city while in their RV. Just a word of caution: Don't try and go downtown with your RV or Travel Trailer as there is no parking for anything this size. There are a mix of sites that have shade or full sun depending on what you prefer.
Would We Return?: If we ever visit Savannah again, it's the only
place we would stay. Kentucky
Mammoth Cave National Park, Mammoth Cave Kentucky Facilities Available: The Campground is considered Rustic Camping. They do have separate sections for RV's and Tents. Most of the RV sites were paved, level pull-through's. The park has a dump station and potable water facilities. There were also Clean, Air Conditioned Restrooms situated everywhere around the campground, and showers were available at the entrance to the campground. There was also a full service store, gas station, Post Office and laundry facilities available. Comments: Even with-out the hook-ups available, this was a beautiful park. One of the things I liked best about this park, was the recycling facilities. They offered separate containers for Brown Glass, Clear Glass, Metal, and Plastic!! This should be mandatory in all parks around the United States! It showed how much they were used as almost all of the bins were filled after the weekend. The park was walking distance from the entrance to the Mammoth Cave visitor center where all the tours leave from. They also had hiking trails, biking trails and an amphitheater where they gave nightly shows for free to all campers. With the Green and Nolan Rivers so close, this whole area is really a great destination park for the whole family. The Park Rangers walked through the park talking with campers and seeing if anyone needed any questions answered on hiking trails or local attractions. National Parks like this should be a template for all parks in the country.
Would We Return?: We already have been talking with the
family about meeting back here for a longer stay with the nieces and
nephews.
White Acres Campground, Bardstown,
Kentucky
(502) 348-9677 Facilities Available: 100 sites, with 50 amp Electric & Water, 15 sites with full hook-ups. Nice gravel sites with picnic tables and mature shade trees. Dump station, Playground and only minutes from Historic Bardstown. Comments: Great little park only minutes from downtown Historic Bardstown Kentucky. Better know as 'Bourbon Capitol of the World' Stayed here for a few nights while we toured the Jim Beam Distillery and the Makers Mark Distillery which are both located only a short, scenic drive from the Campground.
Would We Return?: Yep, we will probably stay here if we
return for the
Bourbon Fest
in September in Bardstown. Louisiana
KOC Camp Ground,
Iberia, Louisiana Facilities Available: Over 100 sites available with full hook-ups. 50/30 amp, cable TV, laundry room, mail service, Convenience Store, Fishing Pond, Hot Showers with Flush Toilets, Pool, Wireless Internet, 24/7 Campsite Host and Shaded or full sun site available. Comments: We found this campground by chance, and we're sure glad we did. We were just passing through and only planned on staying one night so we could visit the Tabasco Factory and Avery Island. The KOC Campground is the closet campground to the Island and we later found out pretty much in the center of everything when in the Lafayette area. Once we met the owners Mildred & Charlie, we ended up staying for a full week longer then we planned. With Mildred as our tour guide, we danced at local restaurants to Cajun Music, we attended the local fair where we got backstage with country music stars Jaryd Lane and Billy Currington, we went on a Swamp Tour and saw too many animals to list, and met so many new friends, we actually thought about getting a job just to stay longer in the area. The KOC is by far the best Campground we've stayed in because of the hospitality we were shown!! If you ever plan on visiting the Lafayette area, the KOC is the only place you should think about staying.
Would We Return?: We're afraid if we ever return, we'll
never leave. But yes, we plan on returning many times, over and
over again. Mississippi
Natchez State Park, Natchez,
Mississippi Facilities Available: Natchez State Park has 50 sites available for RV camping feature picnic tables, grills, and Electrical & Water hook-ups. Six of the sites also feature sewage hook-ups. A central sewage dumping station and bathhouses with hot showers are located in the developed camping area. Level Concrete pads are provided for each site with plenty of shade on some while others have a mix of both sun and shade. Comments: Natchez State Park is located just 10 miles north of historic Natchez, the oldest settlement on the Mississippi River. Prior to the Civil War, over half of the millionaires in the entire United States lived in Natchez! Now there is a great little tourist area with a Gambling River Boat right on the Mississippi River. The campground itself is on Natchez Lake where the largest Bass in Mississippi history was caught! With plenty to do in the area, this campground was very nice and a great place to use as a base camp for many of the activities Southern Mississippi has to offer.
Would We Return?:
Yes South Carolina
Edisto Beach State Park, Edisto, South Carolina Facilities Available: Water & Electric are available. The sites are situated in a heavy forest so almost all sites are shaded, but make you feel like you're in a Jungle setting. There is a bath house for hot showers, and flush toilets. Sites are level and have picnic tables located on each site. Comments: This was another park where we pulled in, backed into a spot and hooked up and were the only campers there. No one was in the booth at the entrance, only a sign stating they would be back in 5 minutes. We stayed for two nights and never saw another person or a park attendant? The park is bicycle riding or walking distance from Edisto Beach. There are nature trails and great sightseeing options around the island with lots of old churches and cemeteries. CAUTION: Every time we went outside, we had one or two Ticks on us or the dogs!! Make sure to do a Tick Check before coming inside. The park is very cozy but would be hard to maneuver a large coach through the low hanging branches.
Would We Return?: Yes, The park was nice and cozy and
backed right up to a large salt-marsh
Ocean Lakes Family
Campground, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Comments: We stayed in Ocean Lakes while visiting Cindy's brother in the Myrtle Beach area. We're not joking when we say this campground has EVERYTHING! Spotlessly clean and meticulously maintained. They pick your trash up at the curbside every morning and while walking on the beach during sunset, we spotted two Dolphins playing in the surf!! I guess during the summer months, they're booked for the next 3 years straight, so make sure to check in advance if you're planning on staying during in-season. All sites are full sun, with only a few palm trees scattered around for shade. This is one of those RV Parks, where once you check in, you never need to leave the place. Fun for the entire family and plenty to do to keep anyone tastes busy.
Would We Return?: Yes, but not in-season. I can only
imagine what a zoo the place must look like when it's full. Tennessee
I-24 Campground, Smyrna, Tennessee Facilities Available: Just about everything you can imagine. Pool with a misting area for really hot days, game room, laundry, playground, grocery and beer sold, showers and clean restrooms. Full hook up 30/50 amp, sunny and shady areas. Comments: Very helpful employees and far enough from I-24 to not hear any traffic. The park had beautiful flower gardens around the campground entrance. The only down side is the size of the lots. We were really nuzzled in to our camp site area I'm guessing because of the CMA Fest that was going on in Nashville. The campground is actually located in Smyrna which is 20 minutes out of Nashville.
Would We Return?:
Yes
Owls Roost,
Suburbs of Nashville Tennessee Facilities Available: Full Service Store, Laundry, Showers, Full Hook-ups, Dump Station Comments: We were in Nashville during the CMA Fan Fest and all of the campgrounds were basically full or they cost over $50 a night. The Owls Roost squeezed us in, literally. We stayed in the front yard of the owners home as did many other campers. The price was reasonable and close to the events. This campground is mostly for full time people and small lots are the norm. By the looks of it, most have lived in their campers on site for a long time. We're not complaining as the Hosts went out of their way to squeeze us in on a very crowded weekend. I was confused when they told us to plug into a neighboring business's outlet though....LOL
Would We Return?:
Probably not
Old Stone Fort
State Park, Manchester
Tennessee Facilities Available: Water, 30 amp, Dump Station, Clean Restrooms and Hot Showers. Also on the sight is a museum and hiking trails along the Little Duck River. Comments: Nice campground, very wooded, very quiet. We stayed there just after the Bonnaroo Music Festival, so most of the campers there were also from the after math of this 4 day festival. This left the park in kind of a state of unrest due to these young people not picking up after themselves. I'm sure it would be cleaner at any other time of the year. There are hiking trails all around the park with Native American sacred mounds and a few waterfalls.
Would We Return?:
Yes
Graceland Campground,
Memphis Tennessee Facilities Available: Pool (closed while we were there),30/50 amp water and sewer, store which sold alot of Elvis souvenirs, and laundry facilities. Comments: This park is across the street from the gates of Graceland, it is also about 10 blocks from crack town. It was very convenient to walk across the parking lot and into Graceland and we had a fine spot which backed up to a great park to walk the dogs in. Not a whole lot more to do there though if you have kids and what not. They had an outdoor area for large groups with an outside kitchen arrangement.
Would We Return?: For sure if we were going to Graceland,
but not if we were just going to Memphis.
Cages Bend Park,
Nashville Tennessee Facilities Available: Water & 30amp, dump station, laundry, showers, boat launch, park for kids. Comments: Very nice, quite park right on the lake with very large lots. It is a Army Corp of Engineers Park which I think are all very nice and clean. The RV slips were set up very nicely with fire rings, picnic tables and level concrete pads. It was one of the cleanest parks we've been in. I couldn't believe when a neighboring camper pulled out of their site, and within minutes two workers were cleaning the site. One walked around picking up any cigarette butts while the other went as far as to rake the gravel they have in the patio area!! You have a mix of full sun or shade, depending on what you like.
Would We Return?:
Yes, in a heart beat Virginia
Longwood Park, John H. Kerr Dam & Reservoir,
Boydton,
Virginia Comments: We stayed in this park in January and the park was actually closed. There was a sign stating that if you didn't need hook-ups, then it was free?! We stayed for two nights and never saw another person. It is situated on the John H. Kerr Dam & Reservoir which is a 50,000 acre lake the Army Core of Engineers developed in the 1950's. The lake comes right up to the campsites and the sunsets were beautiful. Would We Return?: Yes, we'd like to come back to fish on these waters as locals told us the Catfish are world record size!! _________________________________________________________________________ Mexico Baja Peninsula
East Cape RV Resort,
Los Barriles, Baja Sur, Mexico (208)726-1955 USA
or 011-52-624-14-10231 Mexico Facilities Available: East Cape offers over 40 sites with full service hook-ups. 30 and 50 amp, which is almost unheard of in the Baja Peninsula. Back-in and Pull-thru's, washer and dryers, wireless internet throughout the campground (This was also a first for us in Baja!), a beautiful pool and hot tub, some of the best landscaping I've ever seen in a campground. It literally could rival any tropical resort we've stayed in around the world. Hot showers and beautiful bathrooms and the campground is only one block from the beach. There are numerous restaurants within stumbling distance and plenty of shopping. Comments: Of all the campgrounds we've stayed in while traveling the Baja peninsula, this is by far the best. It offered an absolutely beautiful setting, nice and quiet and we felt very safe and secure within the fenced, manicured grounds. The American owners went out of their way to make sure we were taken care of and made us feel right at home. We had only planned on staying here one night on our way to Cabo, but after the first day, we changed our plans and decided to stay for a week. The owners also run a sport fishing service out of the campground which can give you guided tours of the scenic Sea of Cortez along with plenty of other guided tours available, both on and off the water.
Would We Return?:
I would return to Baja just to stay at this resort that's how much we
liked it!
Casa Blanca RV
Park, La Paz, Baja Sur, Mexico
(612)124-2477 Facilities Available: Casa Blanca has over 40 lots, all back-ins some with only 15amp, others had 50amp! There is full hook-ups, a beautiful pool, tennis courts, a coffee shop which has wireless internet attached to the campground, bathrooms and laundry facilities. The campground is walled in and has a gated entry for security. It's within walking distance of the malecón in downtown La Paz, but the sidewalks are so crazy, it might be better to take a cab if headed downtown. Comments: We never thought we'd stay a few nights in La Paz, being as it's Baja's largest city, but this campground kept us here a few days extra. We never worried about leaving the camper to go explore the surrounding areas and take an all day boat tour off of Pichilingue which is just a short drive down the coast. There are some big trees here so you'll be able to find a shady spot and all the sites are level, but you'll be parking on hard sand.
Would We Return?: Yes, this campground was very nice.
Manfred's RV
Park, Ciudad Constitución, Baja Sur,
Mexico
(613)132-1103 Facilities Available: With over 30 sites, Manfred's has alot to offer anyone passing through Ciudad Constitución. They have 15amp power, sewer, water, a pool and a little restaurant that had great margaritas. Comments: Pulling up, I was worried we were going to roast to death due to the 98°heat we had been driving through all day. Manfred's has plenty of beautiful shrubs planted, and even has a few shaded spots that helped ease the heat of the sun. We tried to use the 15amp service to run the A/C just to cool the camper down, but the parks power kept surging from 90 up to 120 no matter which outlet we tried? So we never ran the A/C. I actually was afraid to plug into the circuit, so I just used our inverter. The water pressure wasn't all too strong, so if you have long hair and plan on washing it, you should probably use their showers or plan on drawing from your holding tanks. We sat in under the palapa sipping on two-for-one margaritas talking with the other RV'ers who all seemed great. Caroline the bartender, recommended a whale tour the following day and even made the reservations for us in Lopez Mateos. One thing to remember, the campground is all dirt, and very dusty! During the heat of the day, the dogs couldn't even put their paws on the scalding hot ground.
Would We Return?: We were all laughing when Caroline told
us the other campground in town was a dust bowl, as we had all thought
this place was very dusty. Then when we were leaving town, we
passed the other campground she was speaking of which was just a dirt
lot, with no trees or shrubs, and we knew what she was talking about! So
yes, we'd stay here again!
These Reviews are solely our thoughts on places we've stayed. We hope we don't offend anyone or mislead anyone by our comments and suggestions. We would recommend you call in advance to check on availability and prices as they fluctuate on seasons and holidays. If you see anything that is listed incorrectly, feel free to contact us so we can change it. Thanks Pat & Cindy Bonish EVERY
MILES A MEMORY
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South and into some warm weather fast enough. Missing much of the
states attractions going through Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia and North
Carolina, we didn't really stop to smell the roses till we hit tolerable
temperatures which was in South Carolina.
