Best Campgrounds near Hattiesburg, MS

Campgrounds in the Hattiesburg, Mississippi area range from state park facilities to private RV parks, with several options situated around scenic lakes and waterways. Paul B. Johnson State Park Campground, located about 8 miles from Hattiesburg, provides tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals on Geiger Lake, while Little Black Creek Campground offers similar accommodations approximately 25 minutes southwest of the city. The Hattiesburg/Okatoma River KOA features tent camping, RV sites, cabins, and glamping options within a 30-minute drive of downtown, making it a convenient base for exploring the region.

Many campgrounds in the area provide full hookups for RVs, with both 30 and 50-amp electric service available at several locations. Most established campgrounds offer modern amenities including showers, restrooms, and dump stations, while some also feature laundry facilities and camp stores. Weather conditions remain relatively mild year-round, though summer humidity can be significant, and occasional storms may impact camping plans. Cell service varies by location, with better coverage near Hattiesburg and more limited connectivity in outlying areas. A visitor noted that "Paul B Johnson State Park in Mississippi is a great place to get away and enjoy the outdoors! They have a splash pad for the kids and a disc golf course!"

Water recreation serves as a central feature of camping experiences in the region, with many campgrounds situated on or near lakes and streams. Fishing opportunities abound at places like Little Black Creek and Paul B. Johnson State Park, where campers can access boat launches, fishing piers, and swimming areas. Several visitors mentioned shoreline views and direct water access as key highlights of their stays. As one camper described, "We stayed at a full hookup RV site and were blown away by how spacious, level, and private it was. Most sites had wooden decks, and many had lake views or direct access, including ours, which had stairs leading right down to the water." Beyond water activities, disc golf courses, hiking trails, and playgrounds provide additional recreation options at many of the area's campgrounds.

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Best Camping Sites Near Hattiesburg, Mississippi (59)

    1. Paul B. Johnson State Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    Purvis, MS
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (601) 582-7721

    "Love it’s wide open views and lake sites. Big lake with rental boats available. Beautiful beach & swimming behind the lodge & another swimming area to cool off. Disc golf course is fun."

    "We spent Christmas Holiday in this Beautiful Mississippi State Park,  we have family in the area so instead of Hotels we bring the motorhome down and spend the week here!"

    2. Hattiesburg / Okatoma River KOA

    9 Reviews
    Hattiesburg, MS
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (601) 520-6631

    "This was a great find in the middle of Mississippi on a trip from Hot Springs Village to the beach. Looked to be new and well-kept. Staff was efficient and helpful."

    "The park is very much off the beaten path so it is quiet and peaceful."

    3. Forest County Multi-Purpose Events Center

    4 Reviews
    Hattiesburg, MS
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (601) 583-7500

    $20 / night

    "However, beautiful lake behind it with a wooden walking bridge that crosses the entire thing. I will be here EVERY TIME I cone this way!!"

    "The RV Park is adjacent to a multi purpose facility. Rodeo, barrel racing, concerts, gatherings, etc. In our stops here, the park has never been more than a 1/3 occupied."

    4. Little Black Creek Campground

    10 Reviews
    Purvis, MS
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (601) 794-2957

    "This park is just a little off the beaten path in Lumberton Mississippi. Located about 20 minutes off of interstate 59 and situated on a great fishing lake."

    "Sweet quite spot like all spots in mississippi Be careful during hunting season ."

    6. Mike’s Place RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Purvis, MS
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (601) 543-7766

    "Small park withFull hook-ups just off the highway. Easy in and out.. Super nice owner helped us get settled late night"

    7. Little Black Creek Campground & Park

    7 Reviews
    Purvis, MS
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (601) 794-2957

    "Most sites had wooden decks, and many had lake views or direct access, including ours, which had stairs leading right down to the water and a picnic table on a platform."

    "Perfect location for a weekend retreat traveling from South La. Huge lake for paddling and the doggos to swim. Will definitely be returning."

    8. Military Park Camp Shelby Lake Walker Family Campground

    1 Review
    Hattiesburg, MS
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (601) 558-2397

    "Some have a nice view of the lake. We were in site 34 which was spacious. Easy access to the All Ranks Club and a small Exchange."

    9. Shady Cove RV Park

    1 Review
    Hattiesburg, MS
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (228) 234-4435

    $40 / night

    10. Camp Shelby Dispersed Camping

    3 Reviews
    Beaumont, MS
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (601) 965-1600

    "Stayed in my SUV for 2 nights and didn't see or hear anyone around. Did hear dogs(or coyotes) in the background but nothing happened. It's up on a little hill which is nice."

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Recent Reviews near Hattiesburg, MS

161 Reviews of 59 Hattiesburg Campgrounds


  • Tiffany M.
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Paul B. Johnson State Park Campground

    Recently renovated MS State Park

    The park is nicely renovated with lots of waterfront spots. We caught a few small bream. Our spot was right next to a street light. Makes it hard to view the stars at night. Verizon cell service was very strong. No WiFi available.

  • lThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 18, 2025

    Forest County Multi-Purpose Events Center

    quick overnight

    Was alright for a quick overnight. Really needs some better maintenance and cleaning especially restrooms. Some “long term” RVs set up, pretty quiet though. Price increased to $25.

  • Randi P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 13, 2025

    Little Black Creek Campground & Park

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Hidden Gem — Can’t Believe I’d Never Heard of It!

    We just spent the weekend at Little Black Creek Campground in Lumberton, MS, and it absolutely deserves a 5-star review. I live less than 2 hours away and honestly can’t believe I hadn’t discovered this place sooner — it’s a massive, beautifully wooded, and incredibly well-maintained hidden gem.

    We stayed at a full hookup RV site and were blown away by how spacious, level, and private it was. Most sites had wooden decks, and many had lake views or direct access, including ours, which had stairs leading right down to the water and a picnic table on a platform. We didn’t see a single “bad” site in the whole park.

    The lake is gorgeous, and swimming is allowed! They have kayaks, canoes, jon boats for rent, and even a bait shop onsite. There’s also fishing, hiking trails, disc golf (two full courses!), a general store, multiple bathhouses, and cute tiny cabin rentals for non-RV guests. They even have propane filling, golf cart rentals, and a dump station. It’s a great mix of peaceful nature and plenty to do.

    The campground is huge and wooded, with tons of shade and a very peaceful, quiet, and family-friendly atmosphere. There are two beaches — one near the main camp side and another closer to long-term spots and day visitors. We brought our e-bikes and loved riding around the scenic roads and loops.

    The bathhouses were older but very clean and air-conditioned, and we felt completely safe the entire time. There’s a gated entrance at night with code access, which is a nice extra touch. The store staff were super friendly and helpful, even giving us some history on the campground. The greeter at the front gate wasn’t the warmest, but that didn’t impact our stay at all.

    There’s no Wi-Fi, but T-Mobile worked just enough for us to use a hotspot to stream TV at night. Cell service is limited but manageable.

    It’s also very easy to find, just a few minutes off the main road with a gas station and small town nearby, and only about 30 minutes from Hattiesburg.

    We will 100% be back and have already told several friends about it. If you’re looking for a peaceful, activity-filled campground that’s off the radar but worth every mile, Little Black Creek is it. Truly one of the best surprises we’ve had camping!

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 12, 2025

    Leaf Wilderness Area

    Spots are along main road

    You just drive and see very clear campsites along the main road. Due to it being public land, we did here shooting nearby, not fun.

    If it weren't for the shooting, this would be a 5 star.

  • Shellie K.
    Apr. 16, 2025

    Flint Creek Waterpark

    Enjoyed it!

    Great spot of swimming and biking. Private spots and great shade.

  • Debbie S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 7, 2025

    Leaf Wilderness Area

    Couldn’t find, no signs!

    My GPS said turn left, I looked and there was an old, overgrown, wagon trail. Next to a private residence. WITH NO SIGN. I was afraid I was trespassing! It was on the dark side of dusk and raining really hard so maybe I missed something… I won’t try again!

  • Edward  C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 6, 2025

    Little Black Creek Campground & Park

    Short trip to just get away

    Very peaceful, well-kept, woodsy type of Campground beautiful Lake. The sunrise was awesome. Squirrels feeding in the trees had a great time

  • Twyana S.
    Dec. 19, 2024

    Lake Jeff Davis

    Beautiful lake with nice facilities

    Lake Jeff Davis is a beautiful lake. It has a nice boat ramp and a few nice piers for fishing. There are not a lot of camper sites, but they do offer water and electricity. The sites are close together.


Guide to Hattiesburg

Camping near Hattiesburg, Mississippi, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled trip, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and biking: Explore the scenic trails at Bogue Chitto State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The hiking trails were very nice with lots of shorts and long options." You can also rent bikes for a fun ride through the park.
  • Fishing and swimming: At Lake Perry Campground, fishing is a big draw. A visitor shared, "Most sites have an unhindered view of the lake," making it a great spot for anglers.
  • Disc golf: If you're into disc golf, check out Little Black Creek Waterpark. One reviewer said, "The park boasts 2 championship level Disc Golf courses," perfect for enthusiasts.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Paul B. Johnson State Park Campground noted, "Shower houses spotlessly clean."
  • Spacious sites: Many campgrounds, like Turkey Fork Rec Area, offer plenty of space between sites. One camper remarked, "The sites were spaced further apart than many of the other campgrounds we've been."
  • Family-friendly activities: Campgrounds like Paradise Ranch RV Resort are great for families. A reviewer said, "Families abound! Clean and well organized."

What you should know:

  • Reservations: Some campgrounds, like Lake Perry Campground, operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A visitor mentioned, "The campground is more suitable for tents and small trailers."
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have stores or markets. A camper at Flint Creek Waterpark noted, "There was no camp store so that was a bummer."
  • Wildlife: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. One camper at Airey Lake Recreation Area shared, "It’s very common to see tents all around the lake."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan for activities: Look for campgrounds with diverse activities. At Hattiesburg / Okatoma River KOA, a reviewer said, "There is a lot to do within the park – swimming, fishing, basketball, a playground for children."
  • Pack snacks: Some campgrounds may not have food options nearby. A visitor at Paradise Ranch RV Resort mentioned, "The General store & cafe were not open during the week."
  • Bring outdoor games: Keep the kids entertained with outdoor games. One camper at Bogue Chitto State Park Campground enjoyed, "We hiked on the beach as well and it was quite peaceful."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campground's sites. A camper at Lake Perry Campground noted, "The campground is more suitable for tents and small trailers."
  • Look for full hookups: Campgrounds like Paul B. Johnson State Park Campground offer full hookups, which many RVers appreciate. One reviewer said, "We had full hookups and had a site near the lake."
  • Be ready for weather changes: Weather can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly. A visitor at Turkey Fork Rec Area mentioned, "The rangers were present at all times but not bugging anyone."

Camping near Hattiesburg, Mississippi, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With a variety of campgrounds and activities, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds near Hattiesburg, MS?

The Hattiesburg area offers several excellent camping options. Paul B. Johnson State Park Campground is a local favorite featuring lakefront sites, boat rentals, a swimming beach, and a disc golf course. The park also offers a splash pad for kids. For those seeking a bit more seclusion, Little Black Creek Campground & Park in nearby Lumberton provides a beautiful wooded setting with a fishing lake, championship disc golf courses, and opportunities for kayaking. Both campgrounds offer full hookups for RVs and are well-maintained with friendly staff. Other notable options include Four Seasons RV Park, which offers roomy sites close to Hattiesburg, and Lake Jeff Davis with its peaceful, natural setting.

Are there tent camping options available in Hattiesburg, Mississippi?

Yes, tent camping is readily available in the Hattiesburg area. Flint Creek Waterpark in nearby Wiggins offers excellent tent camping opportunities with sites that back up to the lake, providing beach access for fishing and swimming. Turkey Fork Rec Area is another great option for tent campers, featuring a fishing-focused setting within a national forest. The campground offers shady areas with picnic tables and grills along the lake, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Most state parks and recreation areas around Hattiesburg accommodate tent camping with access to basic amenities like restrooms, showers, and water sources. Many sites offer scenic settings near lakes or in wooded areas.

What are the options for long-term camping in the Hattiesburg area?

For long-term camping near Hattiesburg, several options accommodate extended stays. Four Seasons RV Park is a small private campground that caters to longer stays with roomy sites, helpful management, and affordable laundry facilities ($1.50/wash, $1.00/dry). Shady Cove RV Park is another option that accommodates long-term campers with water hookups and big-rig-friendly sites. Some local parks offer monthly rates and discounted extended-stay options, especially during off-peak seasons. For those seeking more economical options, Camp Shelby offers basic facilities with longer-term availability. Most long-term campgrounds in the area provide full hookups, stable electricity, and reliable internet access for remote workers or seasonal visitors.

Is the Hattiesburg KOA a good place to camp?

Yes, the Hattiesburg / Okatoma River KOA is highly regarded by campers. Recent visitors describe it as a great find in the middle of Mississippi and an excellent stopover point. The campground appears to be relatively new and well-maintained with efficient, helpful staff. Sites are arranged around a lake and are level, making setup easy for RVs and trailers. The location is convenient for travelers passing through Mississippi, particularly those heading to or from coastal destinations. While specific amenities aren't detailed in reviews, KOA campgrounds typically offer reliable hookups, clean facilities, and family-friendly environments. Travelers indicate they would stay at this KOA again, suggesting a positive overall experience.