Camping at Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway National Recreation Area

Overview of Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway

The Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway National Recreation Area is a 234-mile waterway that runs from the Tennessee River to the Tombigbee River in Alabama. Known locally as the Tenn-Tom, it was primarily built as a commercial navigation route, but it also offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including camping, boating, fishing, and wildlife observation.

Camping Information

Availability: Camping along the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway may be available at various locations, including developed campgrounds and some more primitive sites. Availability can vary by season, and reservations are recommended, especially for developed campgrounds during peak seasons.

Types of Campgrounds:

• Developed campgrounds: These often have amenities such as electricity, water hookups, restrooms, and showers.
• Primitive campgrounds: These are more basic with fewer or no amenities, suitable for those looking for a more natural camping experience.

Reservations & Fees:

• Always check ahead for the latest fees and reservation policies. Some sites may be first-come, first-served, while others may require reservations.
• Fees will vary depending on the type of site and the amenities provided.

Facilities & Amenities:

• Developed sites typically offer picnic tables, fire rings, and nearby restrooms.
• Waste disposal: Proper disposal of garbage and waste is crucial. Some developed sites may have dump stations for RVs.
• Water access: Many campsites will provide access to the waterway for fishing and boating.

Activities

Boating:

• The waterway offers extensive boating opportunities, ranging from small craft to larger vessels.
• Marinas along the waterway provide services such as fuel, moorings, and sometimes overnight docking for travelers.
• Boating permits may be required, and boaters should be familiar with the navigation rules of the waterway.

Fishing:

• The Tenn-Tom is known for its good fishing, with species such as largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish in abundance.
• Fishing licenses are required and can be obtained from the state in which you are fishing. Make sure to follow all local regulations and size limits.

Hiking and Wildlife Watching:

• Trails along the waterway offer scenic hiking and opportunities to view wildlife in their natural habitats.
• Bird watching is particularly popular, as the waterway is along a major migration route for many species.

Cycling:

• Some areas around the waterway may have cycling paths or allow biking along the levees.

Safety Tips

• Weather Awareness: Check the weather forecast regularly and be prepared for sudden changes, especially if you're on the water.
• Wildlife Caution: Keep a safe distance from wildlife and never feed the animals.
• Fire Safety: If fires are permitted, make sure they are fully extinguished before leaving the campsite or going to sleep.
• Emergency Readiness: Carry a first-aid kit and know the location of the nearest medical facility. Have a method to contact emergency services if needed.

Leave No Trace

It is essential to practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize the impact on the natural environment:

• Properly dispose of waste.
• Leave what you find.
• Respect wildlife and other visitors.
• Be considerate of the ecosystem by staying on marked trails and not polluting the water.

Further Information

Resources:

• Visit the official national recreation area or state park websites for the most current information.
• Contact local visitor centers or ranger stations for detailed maps, guides, and any alerts or notices affecting the waterway and its use.

Getting There:

• The waterway stretches through Mississippi and Alabama, and there are numerous points of access. Plan your route to the waterway accordingly and check for any transportation or access issues that could affect your trip.