Photo: Paul B Johnson State Park
Photo: Corey Arbourgh
Photo: Ken Roberts
Paul B Johnson State Park
★4.5(1,561 reviews)FreePark
🕑 4-6 hours for a full day experience, or 2-3 hours if just visiting the beach or doing a quick hike👶 Best for all ages, from toddlers to teens. Little ones love splashing at the beach and spotting wildlife, elementary-aged kids enjoy the nature trails and fishing, while teens can paddleboard, kayak, and explore the more challenging trails independently.🧡 Saved by 150+ families
About
Paul B Johnson State Park is a 225-acre outdoor paradise surrounding the beautiful Geiger Lake, offering families an affordable escape into nature just minutes from Hattiesburg. With its sandy swimming beach, kid-friendly hiking trails, excellent fishing spots, and well-maintained campgrounds, this park provides the perfect setting for families to unplug and reconnect through outdoor adventure.
Highlights
- ✓Sandy swimming beach with designated swim area perfect for younger children
- ✓Fishing pier and boat launch for family fishing adventures (bass, bream, and catfish)
- ✓Multiple hiking trails ranging from easy nature walks to moderate forest trails
- ✓Playground area near the beach for toddlers and preschoolers
- ✓Camping facilities including cabins and RV sites for extended family adventures
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on summer weekends to secure a prime spot near the beach and avoid afternoon heat,the swimming area gets crowded after 11 AM
- 2.Rent a kayak or paddleboard from the park office to explore the lake's quieter coves where kids can spot turtles and herons up close
- 3.Bring bug spray and apply liberally, especially during spring and fall when mosquitoes are most active near the water
- 4.Pack a cooler with snacks and lunch as there are excellent covered picnic areas with grills, but no on-site food vendors
- 5.Don't miss the Nature Trail near the dam,it's an easy 1-mile loop perfect for younger children with interpretive signs teaching about local ecosystems
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings during spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) for the most pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and optimal wildlife viewing. Summer weekends are popular but can be hot and crowded, though perfect for water activities.
What to Know
Day-use admission is $4 for adults and $2 for children (ages 4-12), with free parking included. The park offers restrooms, changing facilities, and picnic shelters, but you'll need to bring your own food and beverages as there are no concessions on-site.
Seasonal Notes
The park is open year-round, though swimming is most popular May through September. Spring offers excellent wildflower viewing and bird watching, while fall brings beautiful foliage. Winter is quieter but still great for hiking and fishing, though the water is too cold for swimming.
Nearby Eats
Head to Raising Cane's or Chick-fil-A on Hardy Street (about 10 minutes away) for quick kid-friendly meals, or try Newk's Eatery for sandwiches and pizzas that please the whole family after a day outdoors.
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