Dub Patton Recreation Area
3905 Arkabutla Dam Road, COLDWATER, MS 38618-6548, USA
Dub Patton Recreation Area
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The recreation use fee is $20.00 per night, while site-specific rates for Standard Electric and Tent Only Electric are $30 per night during May 01,...
Show more
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
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$30.00
Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider662-562-6261
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Arkabutla Lake, Dub Patton Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 59 thoughtfully designed family campsites and sweeping waterfront vistas. This year-round haven combines the tranquility of Mississippi's rolling hills with modern camping amenities, including two spacious group day-use shelters perfect for gatherings. Whether you're seeking a peaceful weekend escape or an extended lakeside adventure, the serene atmosphere and stunning natural beauty create an unforgettable backdrop for your outdoor memories.
Dub Patton Campground provides standard electric and tent-only electric sites. It accommodates both RV and tent camping, with limited space for larger RVs.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints a different portrait at Dub Patton, from vibrant spring blooms to golden autumn foliage. Summer brings warm, sunny days ideal for water activities, though savvy campers come prepared for the Mississippi heat with plenty of shade and hydration. Winter transforms the campground into a peaceful retreat with crisp air and fewer crowds, offering solitude seekers their own private paradise. Pro tip from fellow campers: the proximity to Memphis air traffic means packing earplugs ensures uninterrupted stargazing and restful nights under the open sky.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of towering oaks, graceful hickories, and stately beeches creates a natural cathedral above your campsite, while sweet gum and birch trees add splashes of seasonal color throughout the grounds. The shimmering waters of Arkabutla Lake serve as the campground's crown jewel, offering endless opportunities for waterfront relaxation and recreation. Morning mists rise from the lake surface as the forest awakens, while evening brings spectacular sunsets that paint the sky in brilliant hues, reflecting off the calm waters below.
Geological RegionTucked into the scenic northwest hills of Mississippi, Dub Patton Recreation Area showcases the region's distinctive rolling topography where the Coldwater River meets Arkabutla Lake. This unique landscape, sculpted by centuries of natural forces, creates a diverse ecosystem where hardwood forests flourish. Majestic oaks and hickories dominate the canopy alongside beech, sweet gum, and birch trees, forming a living testament to the area's rich biodiversity. The gentle hills provide natural privacy between campsites while offering elevated viewpoints for those seeking panoramic lake vistas.
Advertisement
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome accessibility features are in place, including handicap showers with chairs on rails. However, one user noted that this design made it difficult to use the stalls effectively. Lighting in restroom facilities was also mentioned as inadequate during certain stays.
Sites SizeThe sites are described as 'small and very close together,' with some angled or narrow entries. Several reviews noted issues with unlevel sites, steep slopes, and limited maneuverability for larger RVs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are generally low due to sites being close together. Some users mentioned that certain sites, like 9 and 10, offer better privacy and views, but these are exceptions rather than the rule.
Total Campsites59 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 9 and 10 are highly recommended for their waterfront access and scenic views, ideal for tent camping.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
- 14 nights during a visit
- 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutIncludes 59 family sites and two group day-use shelters with electric hookups. Sites vary in suitability for RVs due to slopes.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 01, 2025 - December 31, 2025
Reservation PlatformsRecreation.gov
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made the day before or up to the day after arrival incur forfeiture of the first night’s fee and a $10 service fee. A no-show incurs a $20 fee plus the first night’s fee. Changes to reservations incur a $10 fee unless night's length changes.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Dub Patton offers a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and biking. The nearby wildlife management areas provide hunting opportunities, and trails like the Coldwater River Nature Trail System offer interpretive educational experiences.
Hiking
The campground features access to the Coldwater River Nature Trail System, which includes hiking and interpretive educational trails. There is also the Swinging Bridge Nature Trail nearby. However, some users expressed disappointment about limited trail options within immediate proximity.Fishing
The lake is renowned for fishing, hosting species like largemouth bass, bream, catfish, and crappie. A reviewer described it as 'Great fishing at the dam.'Swimming
Swimming is permitted, but no specific safety measures or designated swimming areas are mentioned in the authoritative sources.Biking
Biking is a popular activity, with some users noting the quiet streets for biking. However, there are no specific biking trails highlighted.Boating
Boating is supported on Arkabutla Lake, which offers some of the best sailing east of the Mississippi River. Specific facilities or restrictions were not detailed.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife management areas nearby allow visitors to observe species like whitetail deer, wild turkeys, and waterfowl. The trails also offer interpretive educational opportunities about the local ecosystem.Cultural and Educational Programs
The campground's interpretive trails provide educational experiences about the ecosystem and wildlife. These trails are part of the Coldwater River Nature Trail System.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed, reflecting the campground's focus on year-round camping without specific winter recreation.Water Sports
Water sports other than boating and fishing are not explicitly mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include ticks, mosquitos, and snakes, along with sloped campsites and occasional flooding in some areas.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 80%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 01, 2025 - December 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities include a large dumpster near the entrance, but user reviews frequently mention litter around the campground and inadequate maintenance. One review described the area as 'neglected,' with trash such as diapers, oil containers, and cans scattered around.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located on the waterfront of Arkabutla Lake, offering boating and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include sloped campsites, unmaintained facilities such as showers and electrical hookups, and inconsistent ranger or host availability.
Campground Map
3905 Arkabutla Dam Road, COLDWATER, MS 38618-6548, USA
Driving directionsFrom I-55 take the Coldwater, Mississippi, exit and proceed west on Scenic Route 304. Follow the signs to the camping area, which is located just north of the dam.
Accessibility from major roads is described as straightforward with clear signage westward from the Coldwater exit at I-55 along Scenic Route 304. However, several reviews mention confusing or lack of clear signage for the campground within the Arkabutla Lake area.Camper Reviews
3.9
81 reviews
Dub Patton Recreation Area has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Dub Patton Campground are highly mixed, with an average sentiment rating of 3.39 for campground-specific experiences. Positive feedback highlights the quiet and scenic environment, while negative reviews criticize unclean facilities, unlevel sites, and poor maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 81 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users appreciated the peaceful and scenic atmosphere, with quotes like 'We loved the campground and the view of the lake was beautiful' and 'Very peaceful and quiet.' Several visitors praised...
Based on 81 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include dirty or outdated bathroom facilities, unlevel and poorly maintained campsites, and a lack of on-site management. One user noted, 'This is the worst campground I’ve ever...
Based on 81 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing extra trash bags and gloves due to litter issues and avoiding this campground with large RVs or Class A motorhomes. Sites 9 and 10 are recommended for their views and...
Based on 81 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground experiences higher criticism during summer months due to bugs, poor signage, and maintenance issues. Cooler months received more positive reviews, with fewer visitors and quieter...
Based on 81 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Showers were so outdated, dark, and dirty.'
2. 'Nice quiet location with playground near for the kids.'
3. 'Restrooms were flooded and needed tending.'
4. 'Sites 9 and 10 offer amazing views,...
Based on 81 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 9 and 10 received the most praise for their scenic views and proximity to the lake, while sites like 6, 7, and 19 were criticized for being unlevel or poorly maintained. Specific complaints...
Based on 81 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Mixed reviews on accessibility features. Handicap showers are available but not always practical, as one user noted 'chairs on a rail' that made stall use difficult. Lighting issues in restroom...
Based on 81 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but some reviews cite issues such as off-leash dogs and lack of cleanup by pet owners.
Based on 81 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
Advertisement