An improvement project has begun at Claystone Campground and Arrowhead Parks at Lake Tobesofkee in Lizella, Georgia, with a $600,000 investment. Funded through the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST), the project will enhance camping, fishing, and recreational facilities at the parks.
The upgrades are aimed at improving the overall visitor experience at these popular outdoor destinations. Claystone Campground closed for renovations on November 4, and Arrowhead Campground is scheduled to close on December 4. Both parks are expected to reopen by spring 2025.
Macon-Bibb County Mayor Lester Miller highlighted the importance of SPLOST funding during the ceremony. “It’s just that one penny that you don’t think about that makes a huge difference in all of our community,” Miller said.
SPLOST Advisory Board Chairman Theron Ussery noted the park’s appeal to visitors statewide, saying, “People come here from all over Georgia. They like to camp here, they like to fish here, and like to just spend time here.”
District 6 Commissioner Raymond Wilder also referred to the parks as a “crown jewel” and shared personal memories of learning to swim at Claystone. “I’ve always felt that way about this place. I live real close to it. I can be in the water with my boat in about ten minutes from my house,” he said, as reported by 41NBC/WMGT.
The renovations will include replacing 64 asphalt RV pads with concrete spots, adding 87 new water hookups and electrical pedestals, installing three new docks at Claystone and six at Arrowhead, as well as upgrading picnic areas with 103 new tables and benches. Wilder stated these changes will significantly improve the experience for visitors.
Architect Gene Dunwody underscored the value of these enhancements, noting the importance of RV amenities like pads, docks, and seawalls. Renovation efforts around Lake Tobesofkee improvement originally began in 2020, according to Warren Shelby of Warren Associates, Inc., who emphasized the project’s goal of fostering community connections.
Lake Tobesofkee Manager Shan Towns pointed out that the last significant upgrades to the parks occurred in 2008. “That’s a very long time, and we just made do with what we have, but I do think this is well worth it. It’s much needed, and I know that our campers and our citizens are going to appreciate you guys doing this for us,” Towns said.
