Georgia Power has swung open the gates to more than 100,000 acres of company-owned lakes, parks, and campgrounds, setting the stage for a busy summer recreation season across the state, according to a new company release.
“We invite everyone to responsibly enjoy our lakes this summer. As stewards of these beautiful spaces, we welcome thousands of visitors each year and prioritize both safety and enjoyment,” said Jennifer Winn, vice president of land at Georgia Power.
The utility, Georgia’s largest and the biggest non-governmental provider of recreation facilities, says its summer push balances access with rigorous safeguards. That approach will matter not only to families seeking a lake weekend but also to property owners looking to bolster infrastructure and risk management ahead of peak occupancy.
Georgia Power manages more than 100,000 acres of land statewide, including dozens of lakes and numerous public campgrounds, such as Lawrence Shoals, Old Salem and Parks Ferry at Lake Oconee, and Seed Lake Primitive Camping and Tugalo Park in North Georgia.
Employees logged more than 61,000 volunteer hours last year to maintain those sites, clean shorelines and partner with local conservation groups, the company reported in the same release.
“Our commitment to preserving Georgia’s natural beauty is evident in our maintenance efforts, including over 61,000 employee volunteer hours last year, and partnerships with local groups to protect the environment,” Winn said.
Beyond stewardship, the utility serves 2.8 million customers in 155 of Georgia’s 159 counties.
Georgia Power encourages fuller safety protocols as well. The company’s SPLASH mnemonic—adult supervision, life jackets, depth checks, arm’s-length vigilance, swim lessons and an emergency plan—offers a consumer checklist, Georgia Power notes.
Dock owners are also urged to inspect ground-fault circuit interrupters, use only marine-rated cords, keep electrical devices dry and know the location of main breakers.
For operators, layering professional safeguards onto SPLASH can strengthen insurance positions. A preseason water-safety audit that maps depths and currents, documented CPR and AED certifications for waterfront staff, throw rings every 100 to 150 feet, QR-coded emergency info boards and an annual mock-rescue drill with local first responders create a defensible risk-management program.
Meanwhile, a reservation portal details campsite and pavilion availability, amenities and pricing, while letting visitors opt in for text or email alerts on lake-level changes.
A one-time day-use fee applies to pavilions at Blanton Creek, Lawrence Shoals, Old Salem, Parks Ferry, Lloyd Shoals and Rocky Creek, according to the online list.
By pairing proactive energy upgrades with documented safety protocols, campground and marina operators not only protect guests but also boost occupancy and curb liability for the season ahead.