Safe Roadtrips From Memphis, TN

For most Memphis locals, a strict quarantine means no planes, no beaches and no overseas vacations, but that doesn’t mean there’s no fun to be had. We’ve listed a few safe and fairly secluded weekend trips from Memphis, Tennessee, for those really feeling the cabin fever. When you need to get out of the house (and even the most germophobic person needs to occasionally), staying within the comfort of a gorgeous Ford is a great way to stretch your legs without worrying. These quarantine-inspired day trips from Memphis, TN, are just enough vacation to get you out of the house without severely increasing your risk of exposure.

Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park (17 miles)

This massive state park contains swamps, bluffs and a massive bottomland of champion trees and endangered plants. If you count river beaches, it’s the closest beach to Memphis! There are camping areas and hiking spots along the park, and it’s only a 20-minute drive away.

Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge (28 miles)

About 40 minutes from downtown Memphis is a national wildlife refuge in the state of Arkansas. This land has stayed open to the public during the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s open for hiking, birding, hunting and fishing.

Village Creek State Park (50 miles)

With forested hills, a golf course, 33 miles of trails, museums, outdoor theaters and a segment of the Trail of Tears, this historic Arkansas state park has reopened, though there are some physical limitations in place for visitors.

The Ghost River (55 miles)

Drive out to LaGrange, TN, and find one of the best places in the area for paddling. It’s pretty easy to social distance while you’re canoeing, and this spooky, magical place sports options for paddlers of all skill levels.

Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge (56 miles)

About an hour away from Memphis is a massive wild swampland great for hunting, fishing and birding. For those looking to really get in touch with nature, this wild area is the place.

Mississippi River State Park (62 miles)

Those looking for a safe weekend getaway from Memphis may enjoy this newer state park, which prides itself on family-friendly experiences like camping, hiking and kayaking.

Holly Springs National Forest (75 miles)

One of the most important wildlife landmarks in Mississippi, the HSNF contains more than 150,000 acres. It’s famous for wild magnolia trees and incredible fall foliage. The Chewalla Lake Recreational Area hosts RVs and campers, while the Puskus Lake Regional Area is a great place for cars and tents.

Chickasaw State Park (80 miles)

With easy hiking trails and bike-friendly routes, this park also sports Lake Placid, where you can rent pedal boats. It’s also a great place to rent a Chickasaw State Park cabin for a weekend getaway.

Tennessee Safari Park (80 miles)

Finding vacation ideas that are safe is hard, but this is an actual drive-through safari that allows you to remain in the safety of your vehicle. This drive-through safari sports everything from bison to zebras to giraffes to ostriches. Be sure to check their Facebook page before you go, however, as the safari can be impacted by weather.

Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park (100 miles)

For those looking for something more eye-opening, historical and educational, the famous Pinson Mounds are not very far away. These prehistoric earthen enclosures were built around 1 to 500 AD by Native Americans, with one built as high as 72 feet. There are 17 mounds in total, and they’ve been studied by enthusiastic archaeologists, some of whom believe that the mounds were built to align with the stars.

Heber Springs Dam Site Recreation Area (133 miles)

Out of the weekend getaways three hours from Memphis, this dam site is pretty nice! At Greers Ferry Dam, there’s a peaceful campground at the base of the Ozark Mountains in Arkansas. There are more than 200 campgrounds and a marina.

More Daytrip Options for After Quarantine

As more places reopen and the pandemic restrictions relax once again, more trips and weekend getaways in public areas will be feasible. Here are a few options to consider once social distancing is less of a concern:

• Oxford, MS (86 miles): Home of William Faulkner, this college town is a great visit for the literary minded.
• Elvis’s Birthplace in Tupelo, MS (115 miles): Diehard Elvis Presley fans frequently find themselves visiting his birthplace.
• Tuscumbia, AL (149 miles): The “Charm of the Shoals” is a historic town with numerous important museums.
• Nashville, TN (212 miles): Nashville is a home of numerous amazing sites, like the Grand Ole Opry. When the pandemic loosens its grip, a three-hour trip like this is a great daytrip.

Regardless of where you end up going on your adventure out of Memphis, keep in mind that now that everyone is landbound, it’s a great time to lease or buy a new Ford. Connect with us about finding a car that will get you better gas mileage on your next big road trip!

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