Paul B Johnson Group Campground

Mississippi's natural beauty and hospitable charm make it an exceptional state for outdoor enthusiasts. From its sprawling forests to its picturesque lakes, the Magnolia State provides numerous opportunities for individuals and groups to connect with nature. For those planning a gathering, a family reunion, or a large group adventure, finding a campground that can comfortably accommodate everyone while offering a range of activities is key to a successful and memorable experience.

Today, we're highlighting a prominent destination for group gatherings and general outdoor recreation: Paul B. Johnson State Park, specifically focusing on its capabilities as a group campground. Located near Hattiesburg, Mississippi, this state park is a well-loved spot known for its beautiful lake, diverse recreational opportunities, and well-maintained facilities. While the prompt specifically mentioned "Paul B Johnson Group Campground" as the name, public information indicates this refers to the group camping facilities within the larger Paul B. Johnson State Park.

This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Paul B. Johnson State Park and its group camping options, helping local users in Mississippi understand what makes this particular campground a fantastic choice for their next collective outdoor adventure. We'll delve into the specifics of its location and accessibility, the services and amenities it offers, and the unique features that make it a standout choice for various group sizes and camping preferences. By the end of this description, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of why Paul B. Johnson State Park is a highly suitable and appealing option for locals seeking a well-equipped and scenic place to gather and enjoy the great outdoors in Mississippi.

Paul B. Johnson State Park is conveniently located on Paul B Johnson Rd, Hattiesburg, MS 39401, USA. This address places it approximately 13 miles south of Hattiesburg, a major city in Southern Mississippi. The park's setting provides a wonderful blend of natural tranquility and reasonable proximity to urban amenities.

Hattiesburg itself is a significant hub in the state, easily accessible via major interstates and highways, including I-59, U.S. 49, U.S. 98, and U.S. 11. This excellent road network ensures that the park is straightforward to reach from various parts of Mississippi and neighboring states, making it an ideal central meeting point for groups traveling from different directions. Paul B Johnson Rd itself is a well-maintained road leading directly into the state park, ensuring smooth entry for all types of vehicles, including large RVs and buses often used for group travel.

The park is situated around the beautiful Geiger Lake, a 300-acre lake that forms the centerpiece of the recreational area. This lakeside location is a significant draw, offering picturesque views and immediate access to water-based activities. While enjoying the serene natural environment of the park, visitors are still only a short drive away from the full range of services available in Hattiesburg, including grocery stores for supplies, diverse dining options, retail outlets, and medical facilities. This ideal balance of a peaceful natural retreat and convenient access to essential services makes Paul B. Johnson State Park exceptionally well-located and highly accessible for both individual campers and large groups planning their outdoor excursions in Mississippi.

• Group Campground: Paul B. Johnson State Park offers a dedicated group campground area designed to accommodate large groups, perfect for family reunions, scout troops, or church retreats.
• Individual RV Campsites: In addition to group areas, the park provides 125 campsites for individual RVs, equipped with water and electrical hookups (30-amp & 50-amp), picnic tables, and grills. Some sites also offer sewer hookups.
• Tent Camping: Designated areas for tent camping are available, offering a more traditional outdoor experience.
• Cabins: The park features 16 furnished cabins, providing comfortable lodging options with amenities like heating, air conditioning, kitchens, and private baths.
• Cottages: Four cottages are also available, offering a cozy alternative to cabins.
• Picnic Facilities: Numerous picnic sites with tables and grills are spread throughout the park. Group picnic pavilions are also available for larger gatherings.
• Boat Launch and Fishing: A public boat launch provides access to Geiger Lake for boating and fishing. The lake is known for bass, bream, and catfish.
• Swimming: Designated swimming areas are available on the lake, perfect for cooling off on warm days.
• Playgrounds: The park includes playgrounds for children, ensuring family-friendly entertainment.
• Nature Trails: Various trails are available for hiking and biking, allowing visitors to explore the park's natural beauty.
• Visitor Center/Park Office: A central office provides check-in, information, and assistance to guests.
• Comfort Stations: Clean restrooms and hot showers are available throughout the campground areas.
• Laundry Facilities: Many state parks offer laundry facilities, likely available here for visitor convenience.

• Dedicated Group Camping Area: A significant highlight is the specialized group campground, offering facilities tailored for large gatherings and events.
• Beautiful Geiger Lake: The 300-acre Geiger Lake is the centerpiece, providing picturesque views and extensive opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Offers a wide range of choices including RV sites, tent sites, comfortable cabins, and cozy cottages, catering to varied preferences and group sizes.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: As a Mississippi State Park, Paul B. Johnson is known for its clean and well-kept grounds, restrooms, and amenities.
• Extensive Recreational Activities: Features include playgrounds, nature trails for hiking and biking, fishing, boating, and designated swimming areas, ensuring ample entertainment for all ages.
• Family-Friendly Environment: The park is designed with families in mind, providing safe and engaging activities for children and adults.
• Scenic Natural Setting: Nestled within a wooded environment with lakefront views, the park offers a peaceful and natural escape.
• Convenient Location: Its proximity to Hattiesburg allows for easy access to urban amenities while still providing a secluded outdoor experience.
• Ideal for Events: The group camping facilities and various amenities make it perfect for hosting family reunions, youth group outings, and other large gatherings.

As a Mississippi State Park, Paul B. Johnson State Park operates under a standardized fee structure set by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. While traditional "promotions" like those seen at private businesses may not be widely advertised, state parks often have established rate tiers and programs that offer value and discounts for visitors. These typically include:

• Daily Entrance Fees: There is generally a modest daily entrance fee per vehicle or per person, which may vary.
• Camping Site Fees: Rates for RV campsites, tent sites, cabins, and cottages are set and can vary based on the season, hookup availability, and specific amenities of the site/cabin. Discounts may apply for longer stays (e.g., weekly or monthly rates).
• Mississippi Residents vs. Non-Residents: Sometimes, state parks offer slightly preferential rates to in-state residents, though this varies by park and specific service.
• Senior and Disability Discounts: Many state park systems offer discounts for seniors and individuals with disabilities on camping and day-use fees.
• Mississippi State Parks Pass: The Mississippi State Parks system might offer annual passes or loyalty programs that provide savings for frequent visitors.
• Group Rates: For the group campground and pavilions, there are specific rates designed for large bookings, which often provide a cost-effective solution compared to booking individual sites for a large party. It is essential to inquire about specific group rates when making reservations.

For the most current and accurate information on rates, availability, and any specific discounts that may apply to your visit or group booking, it is highly recommended to contact Paul B. Johnson State Park directly. You can also visit the official Mississippi State Parks website, which provides detailed information on all parks, including Paul B. Johnson, and often has an online reservation system. Direct communication will ensure you have the latest information to plan your visit and take advantage of any applicable savings.

To plan your individual or group camping adventure at Paul B. Johnson State Park, or to inquire about specific site availability for the group campground, contacting the park directly is the best approach. The park staff can provide detailed information on reservations, amenities, and any current operating procedures.

You can reach Paul B. Johnson State Park using the following details:

Address: Paul B Johnson Rd, Hattiesburg, MS 39401, USA

While a phone number was not explicitly provided in the prompt, Mississippi State Parks generally have publicly listed phone numbers for their individual parks. Based on public information, the main number for Paul B. Johnson State Park is typically:

Phone: (601) 582-7845 (Please verify this number, as park contact information can occasionally change.)

When you call, be sure to specify if you are inquiring about the dedicated group campground, individual RV or tent sites, or cabin/cottage rentals. Provide your desired dates and the estimated size of your group or party. This will help the park staff efficiently assist you in planning your visit to this beautiful state park in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

Paul B. Johnson State Park, particularly with its excellent group camping facilities, is exceptionally suitable and appealing for locals throughout the Mississippi region. Its multifaceted offerings align perfectly with the recreational and social needs of Mississippians, making it a premier choice for various outdoor activities and gatherings.

Firstly, the park's convenient location near Hattiesburg makes it easily accessible for a significant portion of the state's population. For locals, this means less travel time and more time enjoying the outdoors. Its setting on the picturesque Geiger Lake provides a natural focal point for recreation, offering swimming, fishing, and boating right at their fingertips. This combination of natural beauty and easy access is highly valued by Mississippians seeking a quick escape or a regular spot for family outings.

Secondly, the park's strength lies in its diverse accommodation options. Whether a local family owns an RV, prefers tent camping, or seeks the comfort of a cabin or cottage, Paul B. Johnson State Park caters to all. This flexibility allows a wide range of budgets and preferences to be accommodated, making it an inclusive destination for various types of visitors. For large gatherings, the dedicated group campground is an invaluable asset, providing a centralized and well-equipped space for family reunions, youth group events, or corporate retreats without the logistical complexities of multiple individual bookings.

Furthermore, the array of on-site activities ensures that there's something for everyone. From playgrounds for children to nature trails for hiking and biking, and abundant water sports on the lake, the park offers a comprehensive recreational experience. This makes it an ideal spot for locals looking for a full day of fun or an extended stay filled with diverse activities, appealing to all age groups and interests within a group.

As a Mississippi State Park, visitors can generally expect well-maintained facilities and a commitment to preserving the natural environment. This reliability provides peace of mind for locals, knowing they are visiting a clean, safe, and responsibly managed outdoor space. In essence, Paul B. Johnson State Park is more than just a campground; it's a vital community asset that provides an accessible, versatile, and beautiful setting for Mississippians to relax, recreate, and create lasting memories with family and friends in their own backyard.