South Abutment Recreation Area
3905 Arkabutla Dam Road
South Abutment Recreation Area
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates are $30 per night during the May 1 to December 31 season, regardless of site type. Additional fees include a $10 modification fee and...
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Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$60.00
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Recreation.gov
Provider662-562-6261
About this campground
Nestled along the sparkling shores of Arkabutla Lake in northwest Mississippi, South Abutment Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of waterfront adventure and woodland tranquility. This year-round destination offers endless opportunities to cast a line into pristine waters, launch your boat for a day of exploration, traverse scenic hiking trails, or simply pause to observe the abundant wildlife that calls this lakeside haven home.
The South Abutment Recreation Area offers a variety of camping options, including family sites with full electric hookups and one group day-use shelter.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the Swinging Bridge Nature Trail, where remnants of the original Coldwater River system tell the story of this landscape before human engineering transformed it. This historic pathway offers more than just a walk through nature—it's a journey through the area's past, revealing how the construction of Arkabutla Dam forever changed these ancient waterways while creating the recreational paradise visitors enjoy today.
Weather and SeasonsSouth Abutment enjoys a climate that welcomes visitors throughout the year, with pleasantly moderate temperatures and dry conditions that make outdoor activities comfortable in any season. Snow rarely graces these Mississippi hills, ensuring that hiking trails remain accessible and campgrounds stay open even during winter months, when the landscape takes on a peaceful, uncrowded charm.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of native hardwoods creates a natural cathedral overhead, where stately oaks mingle with hickories, while smooth-barked beeches stand alongside fragrant sweet gums and graceful birches. This diverse forest canopy filters dappled sunlight across the gently rolling hills, creating cool, shaded camping spots and picture-perfect vistas. The interplay of woodland and water offers stunning scenery that changes with each season, from spring's fresh green emergence to autumn's spectacular color display.
Geological RegionPerched in the scenic hill country of northwest Mississippi, South Abutment occupies a strategic position where the engineered marvel of Arkabutla Dam meets the natural beauty of the Coldwater River system. This unique geological setting, where ancient waterways have been transformed into a recreational lake, creates a diverse ecosystem that supports both aquatic and terrestrial adventures in one remarkable destination.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible amenities include water and electricity hookups, per authoritative sources. However, specific details about accessibility for individuals with disabilities are not provided.
Sites SizeThe campground offers 81 family sites and one group day-use shelter.
Sites PrivacySome sites are noted for their privacy and scenic views. One user mentioned, "Sites 20-30 all have nice water views!! Lots of room between sites!!"
Total Campsites81 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for sites 20-30 for optimal water views and privacy.
Best CampsitesSites 20-30 are highly rated for their waterfront views and spacious layout.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is unspecified.
Check-out
Check-out time is unspecified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights per visit, within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limit per site is unspecified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 81 family sites and one group day-use shelter, all equipped with electric hookups.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 to December 31 (reservable during this period).
Reservation PlatformsRecreation.gov and associated apps.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit information on walk-up availability; all sites appear reservable.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the check-in date, subject to a $10 fee. Late cancellations incur additional fees: $10 plus forfeiture of the first night's use fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
South Abutment Recreation Area offers a wide range of recreational activities for campers, including hiking, swimming, fishing, and boating. Hunting is also available in the surrounding wildlife management areas. User reviews highlight the scenic beauty and quiet atmosphere, but also mention the presence of bugs and limited maintenance in some areas.
Hiking
Several trails wind around Arkabutla Lake and nearby landscapes. Highlights include the Coldwater River Nature Trail System, which encompasses two hiking trails and an interpretive trail educating hikers about the local wildlife and ecosystem. Another notable trail, the Swinging Bridge Nature Trail, features a section of land that was part of the river before the dam was built. However, user reviews do not specifically assess the trails.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Arkabutla Lake, which is home to native fish species such as largemouth bass, bream, catfish, and crappie. "Thousands of people each year visit Arkabutla Lake to go fishing."Swimming
Swimming is available as part of the recreational activities at Arkabutla Lake. However, there are no specific details about designated swimming areas or safety measures provided.Biking
Biking is listed as one of the recreational activities available at the campground. Details about specific trails and recommended skill levels are not provided.Boating
Boating opportunities are available at Arkabutla Lake, which offers some of the best sailing east of the Mississippi River. However, no specific details about boat types or docking facilities are provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife management areas around Arkabutla Lake feature 30,000 acres of public hunting lands where visitors can observe whitetail deer, wild turkeys, quail, and waterfowl.Winter Activities
No specific details provided about winter activities.Water Sports
No specific details provided about non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire rules were not explicitly stated, but buying and burning firewood locally is encouraged to prevent pest infestations.
- Quiet hours are No explicit quiet hours were mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bugs, noted as 'horrific' by one reviewer, and fast-moving cars within the campground.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 81%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services, including hospitals and police stations, are accessible in nearby cities such as Hernando and Senatobia.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - December 31.
Trash and recyclingSpecific details about trash and recycling facilities are not provided in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the waterfront of Arkabutla Lake.
Common complaintsComplaints center on lack of cleanliness and maintenance, inadequate restroom supplies, and speed limits not being enforced.
HostNo campground hosts are present, as noted in multiple user reviews.
Campground Map
3905 Arkabutla Dam Road
Driving directionsFrom I-55, take the Hernando, Mississippi exit and follow Scenic Route 304 to the main dam. Follow signs into the recreation area; the campground is just south of the dam.
Paved roads provide accessibility, and Scenic Route 304 is the main approach. Seasonal conditions do not seem to affect access.Nearby places
Hernando (approximately 20 miles, estimated travel time not provided)
Senatobia (approximately 30 miles, estimated travel time not provided).
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies are likely available in Hernando and Senatobia, while fuel stations are accessible along Scenic Route 304.
Camper Reviews
4.1
6 reviews

South Abutment Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of South Abutment Recreation Area offer mixed feedback. Positive highlights include scenic views, cleanliness, and spacious sites. Negative comments focus on poor maintenance, limited cell service, and bugs.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews emphasize the scenic beauty, cleanliness, and space between sites. For example, one user noted, "Beautiful campground in a beautiful area!! Very clean! No trash!! Sites 20-30 all...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include limited maintenance, poor cell phone coverage, and bugs. One user mentioned, "Nothing (bathrooms, showers, campsites, etc.) is cleaned or maintained. The bugs are horrific."...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Choose sites 20-30 for nice water views and spacious layouts. Plan for limited cell phone service and bring bug repellent.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
No specific seasonal trends are mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Sites 20-30 all have nice water views!! Lots of room between sites!!" "Nothing (bathrooms, showers, campsites, etc.) is cleaned or maintained. The bugs are horrific." "Beautiful campground in a...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 20-30 are highly recommended for their water views and spacious layouts.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific user reviews about accessibility features.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are mentioned positively in one review: "Our dog loved it."
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025