Are you the owner for this park? Make it a featured listing and be seen in the top search results!
Arkabutla Lake - COE/Dub Patton Area
Overview
Dub Patton Area at Arkabutla Lake is a premier US Army Corps of Engineers destination situated in the quiet town of Coldwater, Mississippi. Known for its expansive water views and serene atmosphere, this park offers a classic outdoor experience that prioritizes nature over commercial flair. It serves as a gateway to the 11,000-acre reservoir, providing a balance of recreational activities and quiet relaxation within a well-maintained natural setting. The park is highly regarded for its cleanliness and scenic beauty, offering a refreshing change of pace for cross-country travelers.
Location & Surroundings
Nestled in the rolling hills of Northwest Mississippi, the park is conveniently located just 30 miles south of Memphis, Tennessee. The surroundings are dominated by dense hardwood forests and the vast, shimmering shoreline of Arkabutla Lake. This location offers a peaceful escape from urban noise while remaining easily accessible to those traveling along the I-55 corridor, making it a hidden gem in the Magnolia State. The natural shoreline remains largely undeveloped, preserving the authentic wilderness feel that many modern RV parks lack.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground features spacious sites equipped with electric and water hookups, many of which offer stunning views of the water. Visitors have access to clean bathhouses, a laundry facility, and a convenient dump station. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the on-site boat ramps and multiple picnic shelters that are perfect for afternoon gatherings. For families, the park includes well-maintained playgrounds and a designated swimming beach area for seasonal fun. The sites are generally big-rig friendly, providing ample maneuvering space for large trailers and motorhomes.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Fishing is the primary draw here, as Arkabutla Lake is world-renowned for its trophy crappie and bass. The area also features several miles of hiking and biking trails, including the scenic Coldwater River Nature Trail. Beyond the water, visitors can enjoy a challenging round at the top-rated disc golf course or take a short drive to explore the vibrant music and dining scene in nearby Memphis. Birdwatching is also a popular pastime, as the diverse ecosystem attracts many native species throughout the year.
Who This Park Is Best For
This COE park is ideal for nature lovers and families seeking an affordable, high-quality camping experience. It is a haven for anglers and boaters who want direct access to the water without the crowded feel of a commercial marina. Because of its spacious layouts and quiet evenings, it also appeals to retirees and RVers looking for a tranquil retreat rather than a busy resort-style environment. If you appreciate unplugging in nature while still having essential utilities, this destination will perfectly suit your travel style.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
User Reviews
A. Starkey
My husband and I came here to camp. We had a wonderful spot! We were able to have fantastic views and seemed secluded. We had electricity and sewer hookups too. It was a great spot to camp to go to Memphis for the day. There are great playgrounds and hiking trails in the area too. The bathhouse seemed older but the water pressure was good and there was hot water. You need to take your own soap to the bathroom to wash your hands.
Susan Endres
Dub needs a lot of TLC. The public day-use area was neat and clean though. For camping, see if you can secure a site at South Abutment instead. Water came out brown after a rain and we lost power. The sites are strangely placed with our fire pit at the bottom of a small hill right behind our neighbor’s camper. Many use this area as an affordable homesite. Several empty campers were on site with no vehicles - a bit creepy. Also, the lake has been drained to allow for work on the dam, so do your research before planning any lakeside activity.
Kai Llamas
Nice place off season. Was pretty clean too. Shower house was full of ladybugs, but that's the south during season change. Nice hiking path. Great lake views. Worst part was that I was in the state of Mississippi. Much love!
Jim Hunt
Nice place to camp. Quiet during the week. Some of the handicap showers have a chair on a rail, which makes it difficult to use the stall. Facilities are clean and have good showers.
Shaul Bail
Quiet spot. Will grill a burger or two again here.
