Pep's Point Water Park

For generations of Mississippi families, Pep's Point Water Park in Hattiesburg has been a cherished summer destination, a place where lasting memories are made by the sparkling waters of a natural lake. This unique attraction combines the thrill of a water park with the tranquility of a campground, offering a distinctive experience for locals seeking both excitement and relaxation. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Pep's Point, highlighting its enduring appeal, its range of activities, and why it remains a suitable choice for Mississippians looking for a classic summer getaway.

Pep's Point, established in 1939, boasts a rich history as a "laid back country water park." It centers around a natural, spring-fed lake, ensuring the water is "nice and cold – no matter how hot it is outside," a truly welcome feature during Mississippi's warm summers. Beyond just a swimming hole, Pep's Point offers a variety of attractions designed for family fun. Visitors can enjoy a white sand beach, multiple water slides that flow directly into the lake, canoeing, paddle boats, miniature golf, volleyball nets, and even a pavilion for group gatherings.

Recent reviews of Pep's Point reveal a mix of experiences, reflecting a park undergoing transitions. While some long-time patrons express sadness over areas needing repair and maintenance, new visitors frequently share overwhelmingly positive feedback. One recent guest enthusiastically stated, "We spent the last weekend at Pep’s Point and I just wanna say we had an excellent experience. The staff was wonderful. The cabins and the ground were exceptionally clean (for the most part). My family enjoyed the water park, especially the slides. We didn’t wanna leave once our reservation was up." This suggests that under current management, there is a clear effort to revitalize the park and enhance the guest experience, with staff actively seeking suggestions for improvement.

For those considering a visit, it's important to note that Pep's Point operates seasonally, typically from May to September, with specific hours for its water park and swimming areas. Guests can choose between an $8 admission for lake and beach access or a $15 "all activities" pass that includes water slides, mini-golf, paddleboards, canoes, volleyball, and access to a game room. Camping is also available, with options for RV and tent sites, as well as cabins. While some facilities may show signs of age, the core appeal of Pep's Point — its natural setting, spring-fed water, and classic family activities — continues to draw visitors who appreciate its nostalgic charm and the dedicated efforts of the staff to create positive memories.

Location and Accessibility

Pep's Point Water Park & Campground is conveniently located at 382 Peps Point Rd, Hattiesburg, MS 39402, USA. This address places it just outside the main bustling areas of Hattiesburg, offering a natural and somewhat secluded atmosphere while remaining highly accessible to urban conveniences.

For Mississippi residents, reaching Pep's Point is straightforward. Hattiesburg is a major regional hub, well-connected by US Highways 49, 98, and Interstate 59. Peps Point Road provides a direct route from the main thoroughfares, making the journey to the park simple for both cars and larger vehicles like RVs. Its location allows for an easy transition from city life to a relaxed, natural environment without extensive travel time.

The park's proximity to Hattiesburg means visitors are never far from essential services and additional entertainment options. Grocery stores, gas stations, a wide array of restaurants, and other city attractions are just a short drive away. This convenient access ensures that campers can easily stock up on supplies or explore more of what Hattiesburg has to offer during their stay. The blend of a natural setting and urban accessibility makes Pep's Point Water Park & Campground an ideal and practical destination for Mississippi locals seeking both outdoor fun and convenience.

Services Offered

Pep's Point Water Park & Campground offers a variety of services and amenities designed to provide a comprehensive recreational and lodging experience for visitors.

• Water Park Access: The main draw, featuring a natural spring-fed lake with a white sand beach, multiple water slides that flow into the lake, and designated swimming areas.
• Camping Facilities:
  • RV Camping: Sites available for RVs, with an RV Camping Pass available for purchase. While specific hookup details aren't always explicitly detailed in general overviews, it is common for RV parks to offer water and electric connections, and potentially sewer, for a fee.
  • Tent Camping: Dedicated tent camping passes are available, which typically include access to fresh water and restrooms.
  • Cabins: Cozy cabins are available for rent, offering an alternative lodging option for those who prefer a more structured stay.
• Recreational Activities:
  • Miniature Golf: An 18-hole miniature golf course provides family-friendly entertainment.
  • Paddle Boats and Canoes: Available for rent, allowing guests to explore the lake.
  • Volleyball Nets: Opportunities for sports and group play on land.
  • Game Room: An indoor space, potentially with video games, ping pong tables, and other game equipment, offering entertainment, especially during inclement weather.
• Group Facilities: Pavilions are available for picnics, reunions, and other group gatherings.
• Concession Stand: On-site concession stand for snacks, drinks, and potentially ice cream.
• Restroom and Bathhouse Facilities: Public restrooms are available, and a large bathhouse is mentioned in some descriptions, indicating shower facilities for campers.
• Picnic Areas: Numerous picnic tables and areas are available throughout the park for guests to enjoy meals.
• Pet-Friendly: Reviews indicate the park is dog-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their pets.
• Staff Assistance: Reviewers frequently highlight the "wonderful" and "attentive" staff who are "very friendly and helpful."

Features / Highlights

Pep's Point Water Park & Campground boasts several unique features and highlights that contribute to its long-standing popularity and appeal, especially for Mississippi families.

• Natural Spring-Fed Lake: A standout feature is the large, natural, spring-fed lake. The water is described as "nice and cold" even on hot days, providing a refreshing and authentic swimming experience that sets it apart from chlorinated pools.
• White Sand Beach: Complementing the lake is a pristine white sand beach, perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or simply relaxing by the water's edge.
• Integrated Water Slides: Water slides that "flow directly into the lake" offer a unique thrill and blend seamlessly with the natural aquatic environment.
• Family-Owned Legacy: Having been around "since 1939," Pep's Point holds a nostalgic charm and embodies a multi-generational legacy of providing family fun, which resonates with many local patrons.
• Variety of Activities: Beyond swimming and slides, the park offers a wide array of activities including miniature golf, paddle boating, canoeing, volleyball, and a game room, ensuring there's something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
• Camping and Cabins On-Site: The convenience of having RV sites, tent sites, and cozy cabins directly within the park allows for extended stays, turning a day trip into a full family vacation.
• Attentive and Friendly Staff: Despite mixed reviews on facility condition, the staff consistently receives high praise for being "wonderful," "attentive," and "friendly," contributing significantly to a positive guest experience.
• Affordable Fun: With various pass options, including an $8 admission for lake access and a $15 "all activities" pass, Pep's Point offers a relatively affordable way for families to enjoy a full day of summer entertainment.
• Bring Your Own Food Option: The park's relaxed atmosphere allows visitors to bring their own picnic food, providing flexibility and cost savings for families.

Contact Information

For inquiries, reservations, or more specific details about Pep's Point Water Park & Campground, you can use the following contact information. Given the mixed reviews regarding some aspects of the park, it is advisable to contact them directly to confirm current operational status of all amenities and any specific conditions before your visit.

Address: 382 Peps Point Rd, Hattiesburg, MS 39402, USA

Phone: (601) 582-8461

Mobile Phone: +1 601-582-8461

It is also recommended to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information on seasonal opening dates, hours of operation, water slide availability, and any special events or promotions. Direct communication will help ensure the best experience for your visit to this long-standing Hattiesburg attraction.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Mississippi residents, Pep's Point Water Park & Campground in Hattiesburg holds a special place, offering a blend of nostalgic charm and accessible summer fun that makes it highly suitable for a local getaway. Despite some acknowledged areas for improvement, its core offerings and commitment to guest experience make it a valuable resource for families within the state.

The primary reason for its suitability for locals is its unique combination of a natural water park and camping facilities. The spring-fed lake with its cool water and white sand beach provides a genuine, refreshing escape from the Mississippi heat, offering a more authentic swimming experience than many artificial pools. The on-site water slides, mini-golf, and paddle boats ensure a full day of entertainment for all ages, creating a convenient package of fun without needing to travel far.

Furthermore, the availability of RV sites, tent camping, and cabins allows Mississippians to choose their preferred level of outdoor immersion, from a day visit to a multi-day family adventure. This versatility, combined with the park's long history as a family-owned establishment, fosters a sense of community and familiarity that resonates deeply with local patrons. The positive experiences shared by recent visitors, highlighting the "wonderful" and attentive staff, indicate a dedication to ensuring enjoyable stays, despite any challenges in maintaining an older facility.

Pep's Point offers an affordable and accessible option for summer recreation, providing a laid-back environment where families can bring their own food and simply enjoy being together. For generations of Mississippians, it has been a place of cherished memories, and it continues to provide a straightforward, fun-filled, and conveniently located destination for making new ones in their own beloved state.

Pep's Point Water Park

382 Peps Point Rd, Hattiesburg, MS 39402, USA