Camping in the Hattiesburg, Mississippi area ranges from state park facilities to private RV parks located within a 40-mile radius of the city. The region sits at approximately 220 feet above sea level in the Pine Belt of southern Mississippi, characterized by gentle rolling hills and pine forests. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter overnight temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing at Geiger Lake: Paul B. Johnson State Park Campground offers fishing opportunities on Geiger Lake with no license required within park boundaries. "There are so many species of birds if you enjoy bird watching like we do. We enjoyed watching geese and ducks on Geiger Lake in the morning," notes one camper.
Disc golf courses: The state park maintains two 18-hole disc golf courses for campers and day visitors. "Located on a massive lake and two 18 hole disc golf courses. We managed to make our way down the weekend of an ice storm and the park rangers made their rounds making sure everybody was okay," reports a visitor.
Walking trails: Several campgrounds offer walking paths through wooded areas. At Hattiesburg / Okatoma River KOA, "There are walking trails that look lovely. The woman who checked us in couldn't have been nicer, as was everyone we encountered at the campground."
Water recreation: Beyond fishing, campers can enjoy swimming and kayaking at select locations. "Start your day by checking in and doing one of the two kayaking trips this place has to offer and end your day by the fire right next to the river. Super beautiful place to stay!" shares one KOA visitor.
What campers like
Lakeside camping: Many campers appreciate waterfront sites around Geiger Lake. "Our site was lakeside on a hill leading down to a pier that jutted into the lake. It also had a grill and wooden picnic table that was movable," reports a visitor to Paul B. Johnson State Park Campground.
Quiet rural settings: The Hattiesburg area offers peaceful campgrounds away from urban noise. At Four Seasons RV Park, "this is a small private campground. Sites were roomy and mgm't was very helpful. They have a nice 'laundry' room and can't beat $1.50/washer & $1.00 for dryer."
Pet-friendly amenities: Several parks provide dedicated spaces for dogs. "We were able to bring all of our pups to the enclosed dog play area that had a great big shade tree to run and run and run. Poop bags and garbage cans were convenient there and throughout the park," notes a camper at Sleepy Hollow RV Park.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers frequently mention clean restrooms and shower facilities. "Beautiful park. Could use just a little more space. Lots of wildlife and amenities. Cabins, laundry, pavilions, pool, propane and store," shares a KOA visitor.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Some rv sites near Hattiesburg, Mississippi may require extra equipment for leveling. At Shady Cove RV Park, "The sites were soft/sandy and not very level. My in-laws had their front tires of the RV off the ground after leveling."
Military training noise: Camp Shelby's proximity affects some campgrounds. "Camp Shelby is nearby, so you'll hear various noises from that (not overly distracting but I wish I would have known before arriving)," mentions one Paul B. Johnson camper.
Narrow roads: Several parks have limited road width that can challenge larger rigs. "Lots of turns so go slow and know your rig," advises a visitor to Sleepy Hollow RV Park.
Varied site quality: Older sections may offer different amenities than newer areas. "Lower numbered sites are older with newer sites being those in the 100s. The newer sites are more level and have concrete pads instead of asphalt pavement. However, the views aren't nearly as nice," notes a Paul B. Johnson visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pad access: Family campers should consider parks with water features for summer visits. "There is a splash pad, lake swimming, and several picnic areas near the visitor center that would be awesome for kids and families when the weather is warmer," shares a camper about Mike's Place RV Park.
Basketball and volleyball areas: Some campgrounds offer sports facilities for children and teens. Magnolia Sands RV Park includes "Basketball and volleyball areas provide recreational entertainment. A strong WiFi network is available."
Playground availability: Several campgrounds include playground equipment. "It wasn't busy in there so they had free reign to wear themselves out (after being cooped up in the campers too). There was a playground area right there between the pool and dog run."
Safety features: Parents appreciate secure facilities. "The restrooms and showers were always clean, and I like that a code was needed to get in, I felt safe going there at night by myself," notes a Sleepy Hollow RV Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: RV campers should note that utility connections vary by site. At Magnolia Sands RV Park, "Concrete pads are large enough to handle most 'big rigs'. Open year round and monthly rates are available. The park is 40 miles north of Gulf Port and Biloxi so finding some Gulf beaches is easy."
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds with rv sites near Hattiesburg fill quickly in peak seasons. "We were driving our van to the beach with our 5 kids, by 11pm we decided to stop for the night. A very kind human answered when we called, even last minute."
Pull-through options: Some parks reserve sites specifically for temporary visitors. "Mostly filled with full-timers / trade workers they don't do reservations but they do reserve 5 pull thru sites for people passing through."
Connectivity considerations: Working campers should check internet availability. "Convenient stop for an overnight stay. Small park with Full hook-ups just off the highway. Easy in and out. Super nice owner helped us get settled late night," reports a Mike's Place RV Park visitor.
