Wiggins, Mississippi sits at an elevation of 301 feet in the piney woods region, with hot, humid summers and mild winters creating a long camping season from March through November. The area receives approximately 61 inches of annual rainfall, making it significantly wetter than the national average, with heaviest precipitation typically occurring during summer thunderstorms.
What to do
Disc golf course access: Paul B. Johnson State Park Campground offers an 18-hole disc golf course through pine forests. "The park has plenty of nice campsites... the park was much improved this time... The park people were especially helpful, and you can get your propane tank filled at the park," notes a camper.
Kayaking trips: Hattiesburg Okatoma River KOA organizes guided paddling excursions on the nearby waterways. "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," according to Jonathan B.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple stocked ponds provide year-round fishing without requiring a license at some locations. "There are also walking trails and very clean showers and restrooms," mentions a visitor about the well-maintained facilities at Hattiesburg Okatoma River KOA.
Halloween celebrations: Flint Creek Waterpark transforms during October with decorated campsites and trick-or-treating. "We stayed here during Halloween and it was pretty crowded... There were several RV campgrounds that had decorations and trick-or-treating," reports Hannah L.
What campers like
Spacious, shaded sites: Campers appreciate the natural setting and privacy at Flint Creek Waterpark. "Site 141 was in a very wooded area at the far end of all three RV areas... This spot was so quiet and peaceful, no road noise was heard the entire 3 days," notes Johnnie S.
Lake views: Waterfront sites provide direct access to swimming and fishing. "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," explains a winter visitor to Flint Creek.
Wildlife encounters: Natural habitats support diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "We did encounter coyote, deer, and lots of talkative geese, so be prepared for some wildlife interaction," warns a camper at Flint Creek Waterpark.
Walking trails: Several glamping locations close to Wiggins, Mississippi offer maintained hiking paths. "We did a small amount of hiking on a very nice, easy trail. We were only sorry we didn't have time to paddle in the lake and explore more of the park," shares Nancy W. about her Paul B. Johnson experience.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites require adjustment for RVs. "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," reports a Flint Creek camper.
Bathroom facilities vary: Quality and maintenance of bathhouses differs between campgrounds. "The bathhouse only has two showers. There isn't alot of water pressure. It is hot water though," explains a visitor at McLeod Park Campground.
Military activity nearby: Some glamping options near Wiggins experience noise from training exercises. "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.
Reservation systems: Many campgrounds have switched to online booking, affecting availability. "McLeod park is a great place to camp. Specially when you could call in to make reservations. Now that they do online cannot get available spots. No update if spot comes available," laments a regular visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pad access: Paul B. Johnson State Park Campground provides water play areas for children during summer months. "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!" reports Michelle F.
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Several parks feature safe roads for cycling. "Me and my husband loved to ride our bikes around the campground and our daughters loved the play ground and little splash pad! We spent most of our time at the playground!" shares a McLeod Park visitor.
Bug protection essential: The humid climate supports large insect populations. "Lots of shade and trees. Bring bug spray. The beaches are nice for campers," advises Kyliea Walker W. about glamping at Flint Creek Waterpark.
Pet amenities: Some glamping sites near Wiggins accommodate furry family members with dedicated facilities. A visitor to Hattiesburg Okatoma River KOA notes, "I wish we'd brought our dog because they had a professional quality bathing/grooming room with a professional dog dryer."
Tips from RVers
Utility hookup placement: Some sites require extended hoses or cables. "The connections were quite spread out with the water pretty far back from the other connections at this site (we needed two water hoses)," warns an RV camper about Paul B. Johnson.
Off-season advantages: Winter camping offers quieter experiences with mild temperatures. "We stayed during the second weekend of Dec. weather was brisk with a small amount of rain on Saturday. Had a beautiful view of the water where you could fish. This spot was so quiet and peaceful," shares a winter visitor to Flint Creek Waterpark.
Site selection strategy: Experienced campers recommend specific areas within larger parks. "The best sites are the first come first serve sites. These sites are in the Mohawk area. I would avoid the Kahaka area if you want a beach area as there isn't one," advises Nancy A. about Flint Creek.
Road conditions: Some access roads present challenges for large rigs. "The drive in was sketchy for a high profile 5th wheel, with low hanging trees and narrow streets," cautions an RV owner about navigating to their destination.
