Arkabutla Lake

Huge recreation areas for swimming, picnics, taking the dog out for exercise, going for exercise yourself. Checking out the dam, taking photos, camping, and sailing. A good day trip.

I’ve been camping here since I was old enough to drive and it remains one of my favorite weekend getaways. It doesn’t offer many of the amenities of some of the bigger chain parks, but the scenery and location are fantastic. My go-​to spot when I was younger was a nice tent only spot along the dam, but the RV areas also offer some great tent camping on the water. These spots are a little more expensive, but offer electricity for powering and recharging small electronics. On our most recent trip it rained the most of the first night we were there. Thanks to the handy electrical hookup, we were able to put a movie on the laptop for kids and ride out the storm in peace. One other perk of the RV are spots is they can be reserved in advance online. The park doesn’t haven’t anywhere nearby that sells firewood, so be sure to stock up before heading out, especially if you’re planing on camping during the winter months.

I grew up on this lake, and like many who did, there’s a love and appreciation for it that a lot of people probably don’t have. It’s muddy, and you usually can’t see your hand even if it’s just under the surface of the water.
The water was high and very cool as of yesterday (6÷10÷13), but if it doesn’t rain for a while, it’s probably best to skip it and make the drive to Sardis.
There are several beach/​swimming areas, some playgrounds, walking/​biking trails, and lots of camping grounds. There’s also a disc golf course.
Kids really love to watch the spillway when it’s open.
For those of you who have seen O Brother, Where Art Thou?, this is the lake they were building in that movie.