Paul B. Johnson State Park Campground serves as a central destination for glamping in Ovett, Mississippi and nearby areas. The park spans a forested landscape surrounding Lake Geiger, with camping options distributed across paved sites at varying elevations. Most glamping sites feature asphalt or concrete pads and multiple camping loops accommodate different site preferences, with site numbering indicating age and amenities.
What to do
Fishing from dedicated piers: At Paul B. Johnson State Park Campground, lakeside sites often include direct pier access. "Our site was lakeside on a hill leading down to a pier that jutted into the lake," notes Layla D., who adds that "Site 16 is next to a pier that leads to an island."
Disc golf courses: The park offers extensive disc golf facilities. "Located on a massive lake and two 18 hole disc golf courses," says JR R., making it suitable for both casual players and those seeking tournament-level challenges.
Nature trails and wildlife viewing: The wooded setting supports diverse wildlife observation opportunities. "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," reports Layla D., who also mentions "a nature trail that we didn't get to check out."
Dog washing stations: Hattiesburg Okatoma River KOA offers specialized pet facilities. One visitor noted, "I wish we'd brought our dog because they had a professional quality bathing/grooming room with a professional dog dryer."
What campers like
Lakeside camping spots: Flint Creek Waterpark sites offer direct water access. "The back of the site backs up to the lake, with plenty of beach to fish or hangout. This site would be perfect during the summer if you wanted to swim," shares Johnnie S.
Communal amenities: Modern gathering spaces enhance the glamping experience. According to Caroline S., Hattiesburg KOA has "just finished building a beautiful outdoor area with a kitchen, tables/chairs, game area, bathrooms and etc."
Security features: Enhanced security measures provide peace of mind. At Wiggins Campground & RV Park, Suzan W. appreciates that it's "Nice and quit. Security cameras throw out the park. Have handicap bathrooms and Laundry room. Very clean throw out the park."
Multiple swimming areas: Several parks maintain dedicated swimming zones. "Swimming, boating, hiking, fishing, and small playground available," notes Jaynia P. about Flint Creek Waterpark, adding that "The water park is not anything 'great', but it's something for little kids ($12) per person."
What you should know
Site variations between loops: At Paul B. Johnson, sites differ significantly by number. "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," explains Layla D.
Proximity to military installations: Some parks experience occasional noise from nearby facilities. "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 Layla D.
Accessibility challenges: Big Creek Water Park has specific layout considerations. Fred S. notes, "Most sites accommodate big rigs, but there are a few tent sites as well. Popular campground; recommend reservations."
Utilities placement: Hookup locations vary between sites. "The connections were quite spread out with the water pretty far back from the other connections at this site (we needed two water hoses)," reports Layla D. about Paul B. Johnson State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pads and playgrounds: Dedicated children's water features provide additional entertainment. "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," says Layla D.
Fishing ponds without license requirements: Several parks offer no-license fishing opportunities. Caroline S. notes that Hattiesburg KOA has "a lot to do within the park—swimming, fishing (no license required), basketball, a playground for children, a dog park."
Water park activities: Archusa Creek Waterpark offers water-based recreation. "The lake is beautiful... This would be a great place to pull an inner tube with a boat," suggests Laurette.
Group site planning: The layout at some parks supports multi-family camping. At Paul B. Johnson, J K. explains, "If you have a group of friends, you can probably get a bunch of spots in the same area and take over a section of the park and hang out all weekend nearby."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many glamping spots in the Ovett area require leveling equipment. "The only issue I had with the spots were they were all uneven, but somehow I was able to level my 37' travel trailer on the first try without any leveling aids," shares Johnnie S. about Flint Creek.
Interior road navigation: Parks often have narrow access roads. Layla D. explains, "The roads in the campground are narrow, two-lane roads but are not conducive to two RVs passing one another. We had to get off of the road for others to pass."
Long-term site options: All You Need Institute offers glamping alternatives to traditional RV sites. Ashley F. describes it as "111 Acres to be explored with unique and comfy accommodations," making it suitable for longer stays.
Weekend versus weekday stays: Timing affects experience significantly. Nancy W. recommends, "The weekend we were there in November was jammed packed but it seems to clear out during the week when kids go back to school. A weekday stay would be more our thing as some of the weekend campers were pretty obnoxious."
