Dub Patton Recreation Area

For Mississippi residents seeking a peaceful and scenic escape into nature, Dub Patton Recreation Area offers an excellent camping destination. Located in Hernando, this campground provides a serene setting along the picturesque Arkabutla Lake, making it an ideal spot for individuals, couples, and families looking to enjoy the outdoors. This article will provide a comprehensive and factual overview of Dub Patton Recreation Area, detailing its convenient location, the services it offers, its unique features, and why it stands out as a suitable choice for locals in the Magnolia State looking for their next adventure.

Choosing the right campground is crucial for a fulfilling outdoor experience. Whether you prefer the comfort of an RV with full hookups or the simplicity of tent camping, understanding what a site provides is key. Dub Patton Recreation Area, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch your tent; it's a gateway to enjoying the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that Arkabutla Lake and its surroundings have to offer. We aim to equip you with all the necessary information to help you plan your visit and ensure a memorable time at this charming Mississippi campground.

Dub Patton Recreation Area is conveniently situated at 3905 Arkabutla Dam Rd, Hernando, MS 38632, USA. This address places it directly on Arkabutla Lake, one of four major flood control lakes in northern Mississippi, known for its extensive recreational offerings. The campground is nestled within DeSoto County, providing a tranquil rural setting while remaining highly accessible.

The location offers excellent accessibility for residents throughout Mississippi and neighboring states. Hernando, the nearest significant town, is just a short drive away, providing access to essential supplies, groceries, and local amenities. For those traveling from larger urban centers, Dub Patton Recreation Area is approximately a 30 to 45-minute drive south of Memphis, Tennessee, making it an ideal destination for weekend trips or longer vacations without extensive travel. The campground's position near Arkabutla Dam provides not only scenic views but also quick access to various dam-related facilities and surrounding natural areas. While the immediate vicinity of the campground is secluded and quiet, its proximity to major roadways ensures that visitors can easily reach and depart from the area, balancing peaceful seclusion with practical convenience. Signs for the campground could be clearer on the approach, so keeping an eye out for them as you near the address is advisable.

Dub Patton Recreation Area is equipped with a range of services designed to enhance the comfort and convenience of its campers. These services cater to various camping preferences, from full-service RVs to traditional tent setups:

• Campsites with Utilities: The campground offers a variety of campsites, many of which provide essential hookups, including electricity and water. Several sites also feature sewer hookups, offering a full-service experience for RV campers. This comprehensive utility offering makes extended stays more comfortable.
• Spacious and Secluded Sites: Customer reviews frequently highlight the spaciousness and secluded nature of many campsites, allowing for a private and peaceful camping experience.
• Bathhouses with Hot Water: The campground provides bathhouse facilities with flush toilets and hot water for showers. While some reviews note that the bathhouses may appear older or have corroded fixtures, the availability of good water pressure and hot water is consistently appreciated by campers. It is advisable for visitors to bring their own soap for handwashing.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings/Grills: Each campsite is typically outfitted with a picnic table and a fire ring or grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires.
• Playgrounds: For families with children, the presence of playgrounds within or near the recreation area provides a valuable amenity for entertainment and activity.
• Hiking Trail Access: Campers have convenient access to nearby hiking trails, allowing them to explore the natural beauty surrounding Arkabutla Lake.
• Boat Launch Access: Given its lakeside location, the campground is ideal for water-based activities, likely offering or being in close proximity to boat launch facilities for fishing, boating, and other water sports.

Dub Patton Recreation Area offers several distinctive features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for outdoor enthusiasts:

• Fantastic Lake Views: Situated on Arkabutla Lake, many campsites offer fantastic views of the water, providing a serene backdrop for your stay. The proximity to the Arkabutla Dam also contributes to scenic vistas.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: The campground is frequently praised for its quiet and tranquil environment. This peaceful setting makes it ideal for those seeking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and enjoy a relaxing natural experience.
• Access to Arkabutla Lake Recreation: Arkabutla Lake is a major draw, offering excellent opportunities for fishing (known for crappie, bass, and catfish), boating, and other water sports. The lake is also recognized for having some of the best sailing conditions east of the Mississippi River.
• Proximity to Memphis: Its relatively short distance from Memphis, Tennessee, makes Dub Patton Recreation Area an excellent base for those who wish to combine a peaceful camping trip with day visits to urban attractions, historical sites, and entertainment options in the city.
• Extensive Recreational Opportunities: Beyond camping and lake activities, the surrounding Arkabutla Lake area boasts over 30,000 acres of public hunting lands for deer, wild turkeys, quail, and waterfowl, as well as a variety of nature trails, including the Coldwater River Nature Trail System.
• Friendly and Hardworking Staff (Corps of Engineers): Campers often commend the staff who manage the Corps of Engineer parks, noting their hardworking and friendly nature, contributing to a positive experience.
• Suitable for Various Camping Styles: With a mix of sites offering different hookup options, Dub Patton can accommodate a wide range of campers, from those in large RVs needing full utilities to tent campers looking for a more rustic but still comfortable experience.

As a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers facility, Dub Patton Recreation Area generally operates under federal recreation fee structures. Therefore, specific promotional deals or seasonal discounts, like those offered by private campgrounds, are not typically advertised. However, visitors who hold federal recreation passes, such as the America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass (including the Annual Pass, Senior Pass, Access Pass, or Military Pass), may be eligible for reduced rates on campsites.

It is always advisable for prospective campers to consult the official Recreation.gov website for Dub Patton Recreation Area or contact the Arkabutla Lake Field Office directly. This will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on current fees, reservation policies, and any potential discounts that might apply to your stay. Booking in advance, especially during peak seasons, is highly recommended due to the campground's popularity.

For further information, to inquire about availability, or to make reservations at Dub Patton Recreation Area, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 3905 Arkabutla Dam Rd, Hernando, MS 38632, USA

Phone: (662) 562-6261

Mobile Phone: +1 662-562-6261

It is often beneficial to check the Recreation.gov website directly for real-time availability and to make online reservations, as this is the primary booking portal for many federal campgrounds.

Dub Patton Recreation Area stands out as an exceptionally suitable camping destination for locals in Mississippi, particularly those residing in the northern part of the state and the wider Memphis metropolitan area. Its allure lies in its serene lakeside setting on Arkabutla Lake, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and accessible recreational opportunities. For Mississippians seeking a genuine escape from daily routines, this campground provides a quiet and peaceful environment ideal for relaxation and reconnecting with nature.

The availability of spacious sites, complete with essential hookups like electricity, water, and sewer, caters to a wide range of camping preferences, from comfortable RV stays to traditional tent camping. This flexibility ensures that various types of outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy their visit. While some facilities, like the bathhouses, might show their age, the consistent availability of hot water and good water pressure underscores their functionality.

Beyond the campsite amenities, the wealth of activities accessible directly from the campground makes it a local gem. Fishing, boating, and exploring the expansive Arkabutla Lake are primary draws, complemented by nearby hiking trails and playgrounds that appeal to families. The convenience of its location near Hernando and within a reasonable driving distance of Memphis adds to its appeal, making it feasible for quick weekend trips or longer, more immersive vacations without the need for extensive travel. Dub Patton Recreation Area offers a tranquil and engaging outdoor experience that truly captures the spirit of Mississippi's natural beauty, making it an excellent choice for local residents looking for their next adventure.