FORT GORDON, Ga. (April 17, 2015) - Jenna Parker is no stranger to outdoor recreation in and surrounding the Central Savannah River Area, but it wasn't until early 2011 that she discovered one of the area's best kept secrets.
"I grew up out here, so I was always going to the lake, but I actually didn't know this place was out here until I applied for the job," said Parker, Pointes West Army Resort general manager.
Pointes West is a multifaceted resort exclusive to military members and their guests. Located about 30 miles from Fort Gordon in Appling, Georgia, Pointes West is surrounded by 70,000 acres of water and nearly 1,000 miles of shoreline. Camping, fishing, and swimming are just a few of the resort's prevalent activities.
Campers have nine areas to choose from; all of which are open year-round. Three of the areas have full hookups, two have semi hookups, and four are designated as primitive tent sites. All campsites have lake front views, picnic tables, a grill, fire ring, and can be reserved up to six months in advance.
The resort also has a variety of indoor accommodations. Guests can choose from newly renovated cabins, cottages, motel suites, and campers with a two-night minimum stay in each.
Fishing is authorized throughout the resort and is permitted with either a Georgia or South Carolina fishing license. Nonmotorized fishing boats are available for rent, as well as kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats. Two new pontoon boats will also be available for rent soon.
As the weather warms up and swimming season draws nearer, the resort's main attraction becomes its beach.
"This beach is the nicest I've ever been to," Parker said. "I think it's because we keep up with our sand. We order sand, and I feel like we maintain it really well."
Pointes West Beach is open year-round, but swimming is only permitted Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, sunrise to sunset. During that time, lifeguards will be present from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. New this year, beach goers will have the convenience of a concessions stand on site, along with chairs and umbrellas. As always, guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks.
"You're allowed to bring anything but glass down there," Parker said. "And pets. We don't allow pets on the beach."
The resort also hosts events throughout the year. The next big event is its annual Beach Blast, from noon to 6 p.m., May 23, kicking off swim season. There will food vendors, live music by a DJ, games, and prizes. Looking ahead to school season, Pointes West will host Family Fun Day on Aug. 1. The event will be similar to Beach Blast, but will tailor games and activities to children and their parents.
Pointes West is restricted to Department of Defense cardholders, including active duty military, retirees, their families, and DoD employees. However, nonmilitary may gain access with a military sponsor. The military member must call the resort and make a reservation under the nonmilitary person's name. The sponsored persons are then placed on an access list for the days designated by the military sponsor.
Camping, fishing, and swimming are a small glimpse into what Pointes West has to offer. The best way to find out more information is by visiting the resort or checking out it's website at www.fortgordon.com.
"It's a great way to get away from everything," Parker said. "It's like you're going away on vacation, but it's only 30 minutes away."
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