2026 Southeastern Bat Diversity Network Bat Blitz

August 18-21, 2026

 Paul B. Johnson State Park

Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Please join us for the Southeastern Bat Diversity Network Bat Blitz in Mississippi. The Bat Blitz will be held on August 18-21, 2026, at Paul B. Johnson State Park in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Paul B. Johnson State Park offers a variety of recreational activities including swimming and fishing at Geiger Lake, a 225-acre freshwater lake, disc golf, and nature trails. We will be surveying De Soto National Forest, The Nature Conservancy Preserves, and surrounding Wildlife Management Areas in the heart of Mississippi’s pine belt region. The Bat Blitz is a great opportunity to learn more about bats and surveys techniques, network with other bat biologists and enthusiasts, and contribute valuable data regarding bat species diversity and abundance in the state.

We will provide catered lunches as well as dinners to take with you in the field. Lodging at the group camps is included in registration and will be available from August 17-21, 2026. You do not need to make a reservation if you are staying at the group camp. The group camps are bunk-bed style in air-conditioned buildings with bathrooms and showers. You will need to provide your own bathing supplies, towel, pillow(s), and twin-sized bedding.

If you wish to make your own lodging reservations, there are limited cabins available, primitive campsites, and RV hook-ups at the park. Reservations can be made at https://reserve.mdwfp.com/ There is also a selection of hotels in Hattiesburg about 16 miles North of the park.

Please register below by August 3, 2026. If you have any comments or questions, please contact Katelin Cross at Katelin.Cross@mmns.ms.gov

We hope to see you at the SBDN Bat Blitz!