Thank you so much for coming out to S’mores with Outdoors with Southern Miss Campus Recreation! We loved getting to hang with you, swap stories around the fire, and share what Outdoor Adventures has planned for the semester. If you had fun at the event, we’d love to see you again on a trip—whether you’re brand new to the outdoors or already have some experience, our trips are designed to be welcoming, low-stress, and a great way to meet other students.
Here’s what’s coming up for Spring 2026: Camping & Hiking the Longleaf Trace (Feb. 21–22, $20/person)—hike the Longleaf Trace, camp overnight, and cook over a campfire (all gear + food included; no experience needed). Swimming with the Manatees (Mar. 14–17, $370/person)—our popular Spring Break trip to Florida’s Chassahowitzka River with camping, meals, snorkeling gear, transportation, and a guide included. Okatoma Paddle Day (Apr. 11, $20/person)—a kayak day trip on the Okatoma River (all gear + transportation included; no experience needed). All USM students and Payne Center members are invited. To sign up and pay, visit the Payne Center Sales Desk or use the Campus Recreation Payment Portal online. We hope you’ll join us!
OUTDOOR TRIPS
Camping & Hiking the Longleaf Trace (Feb. 21–22, $20): Hike Hattiesburg’s Longleaf Trace, camp overnight, and cook over a campfire—all gear, food, and instruction included, no experience needed.
Okatoma Paddle Day (Apr. 11, $20): Spend the day kayaking the Okatoma River with transportation and all paddling gear provided, perfect for beginners.
Swim with the Manatees on Florida’s Chassahowitzka River (March 14–17) for an unforgettable Spring Break trip—camp riverside, cook over the fire, and snorkel with a guide to see manatees up close. It’s honestly tough to plan this on your own for this price, but for $370 you get transportation, snorkeling gear, a guided excursion, camping equipment, and meals included. Sign up at the Payne Center Sales Desk or on the Campus Recreation Payment Portal.
Need a Job this Summer?
Looking for a solid summer job? Join the team as a lifeguard this summer! It’s a great way to earn money, build real responsibility and leadership skills, and help keep the pool safe and fun for everyone.