Paul B. Johnson State Park Reopens After $8 Million Renovation

The Mississippi state park has been closed for over a year for major upgrades to cabins, campgrounds, and infrastructure.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:35pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A textured oil painting in the style of Vincent Van Gogh depicting a serene lake surrounded by rolling hills and trees, conceptually representing the natural beauty and tranquility of the renovated Paul B. Johnson State Park.The revitalized Paul B. Johnson State Park in Mississippi offers visitors a serene natural escape with its picturesque lake and lush landscapes.Shelby Today

After over a year of closures and $8.7 million in renovations, Paul B. Johnson State Park in Shelby, Mississippi held a grand reopening ceremony on March 26. The park's cabins, campgrounds, bathhouses, pavilions, and wastewater systems have all been upgraded using funding from the Federal Land Water Conservation Fund, State Capital Expense funds, and the American Rescue Plan Act.

Why it matters

Paul B. Johnson State Park is a popular outdoor recreation destination in Mississippi, drawing visitors from across the region. The extensive renovations will allow the park to better serve guests and provide updated amenities, helping to attract more tourism to the local area.

The details

The renovations included upgrades to 65 campsites, 16 cabins, two bathhouses, the Group Camp, pavilions, the camp store, office spaces, and lodge spaces. An additional $2.8 million was spent on improving the park's wastewater and sewer systems. The park was originally established in the 1930s as Shelby State Park and was later renamed after Mississippi's 46th governor, Paul B. Johnson.

  • The park was closed for over a year during the renovation project.
  • The grand reopening ceremony was held on March 26, 2026.

The players

Heather Peterson

The park manager of Paul B. Johnson State Park.

Toney Fleming

The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks (MDWFP) park administrator.

Larry Byrd

Mississippi House Representative from Petal.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The extensive renovations to Paul B. Johnson State Park demonstrate the state's commitment to maintaining and upgrading its outdoor recreation infrastructure, ensuring that this popular destination can continue to serve visitors for years to come.