Paul B. Johnson State Park Campground sits on the shores of Geiger Lake, about 10 miles west of Purvis in Mississippi's pine forest region. The campground spreads across rolling terrain with both older numbered sites and newer 100-series sites that feature concrete pads and more level ground.
Site variety defines the camping experience here. Lakefront spots like site 67 offer direct water access with private piers, though utility connections can be spread out requiring multiple hoses. Layla D. notes "the connections were quite spread out with the water pretty far back from the other connections." Pull-through sites cluster close together, while back-in sites provide more spacing between neighbors. Some sites include wooden decks that reduce yard space, and fire rings vary by location with some areas requiring campers to clear their own fire spots.
The lake supports fishing, kayaking, and swimming with multiple piers extending into the water. A nature trail winds through the park, and a splash pad near the visitor center serves families during warmer months. Bird watchers can spot various species including geese and ducks on the lake. Camp Shelby's proximity means occasional military training sounds carry across the area.
Narrow campground roads challenge larger RVs, particularly when two units need to pass. Nancy W. found "the roads in the campground are narrow, two-lane roads but are not conducive to two RVs passing one another." Weekend crowds can create busy conditions with golf carts and boat trailers throughout the park, while weekdays offer quieter camping. The park accepts both reservations and walk-ins, with an honor system available during off-hours.
Plan for limited camp store offerings and bring extra water hoses for some lakefront sites.
Description
Located in the heart of Mississippi's pine belt region, Paul B. Johnson State Park is the gateway to a natural wonderland marked by majestic long-leaf and loblolly pines, delicate dogwoods, and ancient oaks. The deep forests surrounding Paul B. Johnson provides a picturesque setting for a variety of outdoor activities. The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is just a 20-minute drive to the north, making Paul B. Johnson State Park the perfect place to spend a football weekend.
Amenities include a dorm, 3 huts, and a dining hall.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsPaul B. Johnson State Park Campground is located in Mississippi near Purvis
Public CampgroundDirections
From MS Hwy 49 South: Turn off of Hwy 49 onto South Lake Dr. Drive 0.4 miles. Welcome to Paul B. Johnson State Park on your right.
Address
319 Geiger Lake Rd
Hattiesburg, MS 39401
Coordinates
31.13420604 N
89.23492175 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/14/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/14/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 13 min from Hattiesburg, MS
- 46 min from Gulfport, MS
- 1 hr 7 min from Slidell, LA
- 1 hr 27 min from Mobile, AL
