Paul B. Johnson Campground, Hattiesburg, MS

### Discovering Nature's Embrace: Paul B. Johnson Campground in Hattiesburg, Mississippi

For Mississippians yearning for an escape into the beauty of the outdoors, Paul B. Johnson Campground, part of Paul B. Johnson State Park, stands as a premier destination. Nestled in the heart of Mississippi's pine belt region, this campground offers a refreshing blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and comfortable accommodations, making it a favorite for both seasoned campers and families looking to create lasting memories. While the park has recently undergone exciting renovations to enhance the visitor experience, its core appeal as a serene lakeside retreat remains stronger than ever.

Paul B. Johnson State Park is a natural wonderland marked by majestic long-leaf and loblolly pines, ancient oaks, and delicate dogwoods. The deep forests surrounding Geiger Lake provide a picturesque setting for a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent under the stars, park your RV with full hookups, or enjoy the comforts of a rustic cabin, this campground offers diverse options to suit every preference. It's more than just a place to stay; it's an invitation to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Mississippi's natural landscape.

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### Location and Accessibility

Paul B. Johnson Campground is conveniently located at:

319 Geiger Lake Rd, Hattiesburg, MS 39401, USA

This address places the campground approximately 10 miles south of Hattiesburg, a vibrant city known as the "Hub City" of South Mississippi. The park's location offers an ideal balance of secluded natural beauty and easy accessibility to urban amenities. Travelers can easily reach the campground via well-maintained state roads, making the journey smooth for RVs and vehicles of all sizes.

Being near Hattiesburg means campers have convenient access to a wide array of services and attractions, including:

Shopping centers, grocery stores, and retail outlets for all your supplies.
Diverse dining options, from local eateries to well-known chains.
Healthcare facilities, ensuring peace of mind during your stay.
Cultural attractions, museums, and entertainment venues in Hattiesburg, offering opportunities for exploration beyond the park.
The University of Southern Mississippi, making it a great base for visiting students or attending events.

The park is situated on the shores of the 225-acre Geiger Lake, providing stunning water views and direct access to various lake-based activities. While entering the park, be aware that one access road involves driving through a shallow spillway; however, an alternate paved road is available for easier access, particularly for larger rigs or those preferring to avoid the water crossing.

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### Services Offered

Paul B. Johnson Campground is committed to providing a comprehensive range of services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all guests. The park aims to meet the diverse needs of campers, from basic amenities to more extensive facilities:

RV Camping Pads: The park features 125 RV camping pads, many offering lakefront views. These sites come with full hookups, including water, sewer, and electrical hookups (20, 30, and 50 amp service). Paved RV pads and campground roads contribute to ease of access.
Primitive Tent Camping: For those seeking a more rustic experience, 25 primitive tent-camping areas are available in a secluded, wooded setting. While these sites do not have hookups, they offer privacy and a true connection with nature, with access to campground facilities within walking distance.
Vacation Cabins and Cottages: The park offers 16 vacation cabins, two duplexes, and three lakefront cottages. These accommodations are furnished with bed and bath linens, kitchens (featuring refrigerators, stoves, basic cooking/eating utensils, microwaves, and coffee pots), central heat/air, and outdoor picnic tables and grills.
Laundry Facilities: Coin-operated laundry facilities are available in select bathhouses for overnight campers.
Comfort Stations: Multiple bathhouses with hot showers and restrooms are conveniently located throughout the developed campground.
RV Sewage Dump Station: A dedicated dump station is available for RVs off the main park drive.
Group Camp Facility: For larger gatherings, a group camp offers dormitory-style housing and huts, a dining hall, and a meeting room, ideal for groups of 40 to 146 campers.

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### Features / Highlights

Paul B. Johnson Campground is packed with features and highlights that make it a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Mississippi:

Geiger Lake Access: The centerpiece of the park is the 225-acre Geiger Lake, which offers opportunities for fishing (stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish), boating (with launch ramps and rentals available), water skiing, and swimming in a designated beach area.
Splash Pad: A popular amenity for families, the splash pad provides a fun way to cool off during warmer months.
Nature Trails: Explore the beautiful surroundings on the "Trail of the Southern Pines" nature trail, perfect for hiking and observing Mississippi's diverse plant, bird, and animal life, including white-tailed deer, bobcats, coyotes, and foxes.
Playgrounds: Two playgrounds are available near the visitor's center and within the campground, providing entertainment for younger visitors.
Picnic Areas: Numerous picnic sites with tables and grills are located throughout the park, many offering scenic lake views, ideal for day-use visitors and campers alike.
Disc Golf Course: For those looking for a unique outdoor sport, the park features a disc golf course.
Visitor Center: The visitor center houses a welcome desk, lounge, park office, and meeting room, serving as a central hub for guests.
ADA-Accessible Facilities: The park is committed to accessibility, with ADA-accessible cabins, RV sites, fishing piers, bathhouses, and a splash pad.
Ongoing Renovations: As of recent updates, the park is undergoing significant renovations to campground sites, cabins, bathhouses, and other facilities, promising an even better experience upon completion (expected by late 2024 / early 2025 for some areas). This demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement.

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### Promotions or Special Offers

As a state park, Paul B. Johnson Campground operates under the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) guidelines. While specific "promotions" in the commercial sense are not typically advertised, campers can often find value through:

Affordable Rates: State park camping generally offers competitive and budget-friendly rates compared to private campgrounds, especially for full hookup sites. Daily rates can vary, with premium sites potentially ranging higher.
Seasonal Availability: While not a "promotion," it's worth noting that certain sites and facilities may have varying availability or pricing based on peak and off-peak seasons. It's always best to check their online reservation system or call directly.
Mississippi State Park Passes: Residents or frequent visitors to Mississippi State Parks may benefit from annual passes or loyalty programs that offer savings on park entrance fees or camping over time. It's advisable to inquire if such programs apply to camping stays.
Renovation-Related Information: During ongoing renovation periods, certain sections of the park might be temporarily closed or have limited availability. While this isn't a direct "offer," being aware of these updates can help in planning your visit and possibly finding available sites that are less crowded.

For the most current rates and any potential savings, it is always recommended to visit the official Mississippi State Parks website or contact Paul B. Johnson Campground directly.

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### Contact Information

For reservations, inquiries about site availability, current renovation updates, or any other questions about your stay at Paul B. Johnson Campground, you can reach out using the following contact details:

Address:
319 Geiger Lake Rd, Hattiesburg, MS 39401, USA

Phone:
(601) 582-7721
(Also listed as Mobile Phone: +1 601-582-7721)

Official Website:
You can typically find more information and make online reservations through the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks website for Paul B. Johnson State Park.

It is advisable to contact the park during typical business hours for the most direct and accurate assistance, especially concerning the ongoing renovation status.

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### Conclusion: Why Paul B. Johnson Campground is Suitable for Mississippians

For Mississippians, Paul B. Johnson Campground offers an ideal blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and accessibility, making it a highly suitable choice for a wide range of outdoor pursuits:

Close-to-Home Nature Escape: Many Mississippians cherish opportunities to connect with the state's natural landscapes without traveling too far. Located just a short drive from Hattiesburg, the park provides a convenient and immediate escape into pine forests and lakeside tranquility, perfect for weekend getaways or longer vacations.
Diverse Camping Options: Whether you're a seasoned RVer with a big rig, a family looking for a comfortable cabin, or a minimalist tent camper, the park offers options for every style and budget. This versatility ensures that every Mississippian can find their perfect outdoor lodging.
Family-Friendly Activities: With a splash pad, playgrounds, disc golf, and endless opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating on Geiger Lake, the park is perfectly geared towards family fun. It provides a safe and engaging environment for children and adults to enjoy the outdoors together, fostering memorable experiences.
Value and Accessibility: As a state park, Paul B. Johnson often provides excellent value for money. Its ADA-accessible facilities ensure that the beauty and recreation of the park are available to everyone. Furthermore, its ongoing renovation projects demonstrate a commitment to continuously improving the visitor experience, promising an even better park in the near future.
Community Connection: For locals, Paul B. Johnson Campground isn't just a park; it's a cherished state treasure where generations have made memories. It fosters a sense of local pride and offers a familiar, welcoming environment for repeat visits.

In short, Paul B. Johnson Campground stands as a cornerstone of outdoor recreation in Mississippi, providing a beautiful, well-equipped, and continuously improving destination for all Mississippians to enjoy the best of their state's natural heritage.