Hattiesburg offers summer of fun

If you are anything like me, you have been watching everyone make their summer vacation plans while knowing you are going to be stuck here in the Dirty ‘Burg. How might you combat the summer blues if you are stuck here in Hattiesburg with nothing on your planner but a few summer courses? After experiencing my first summer here last year, I will be the first to admit it takes a little bit of effort to get off that couch to stop watching the Wife Swap marathon on Lifetime and do something worth your while.

If you would like to get in touch with nature, Hattiesburg offers a variety of outings. Just down Highway 49 is Paul B. Johnson State Park, which boasts a great environment with camping facilities. This area is perfect for a weekend camping trip with a few of your friends who are all tired of lying out by the Crowne pool and listening to “Call Me Maybe” while drinking a few cold snacks.

Another outdoor opportunity can be found in a trip to canoe down the Okatoma. The Okatoma has a seven mile float and a thirteen mile float, both accompanied with sandbanks and beaches along the way to help you and your convoy rest and fuel up with food. The best part is that it is only ten minutes up Highway 49. Literally all you have to do is get in your car, drive to the launch, pay a wee bit of cash, and you are off on a day of adventure that would make Lewis and Clark proud.

Not the outdoors type? Find a good read to bury your nose into that will take your mind places it has never been. While I am a traditional Dr. Seuss fan, I recommend The Hunger Games for those who have yet to read the series. There is something about a girl with a bow and arrow that really makes you want to take a mythical journey to District 12, which leads me to my last and most important tip on making the most of your summer in Hattiesburg.

Have fun. Turn the music up and dance in the revelries of summer. It really is the best time of year, so whether you want to spend it downtown playing in the fountain by the train station or sitting around playing Call of Duty, do what you love. Be spontaneous. Grab a friend and make that late night Sonic run. I have found in my years at Southern Miss that the smallest memories are the best, and the best way to make them is to just let go every once in a while. After all, what are summers for? I can promise you that Hattiesburg has an adventure waiting. You just have to look for it.