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RV Park Spotlight
See Southern Gates
The Spears family (Tim, Martha and Michael) took the long trek from
Eastpointe, Michigan (a suburb of Detroit), to fulfill their dream of owning a
campground. Leaving family and friends behind was difficult; however, cold
Michigan winters were another story. Tim could be heard saying, "I'd rather
shovel sand than snow." Family members wept only briefly, then smiled, when they
realized they would have a winter getaway.
Though there is no replacement for
family, fresh-baked bagels or Vernors, the Spears settled into the rural
community of Arabi (Air-a-bee), Ga., and were warmly welcomed in true southern
fashion. Tim was given a sign that reads, "I wasn't born in the South, but I got
here as soon as I could."
Southern Gates RV Park and Campground is a tranquil
place for an overnight stop or an extended stay. The park is clean, and the
sites are level with pull thru's large enough to accommodate the largest units.
A smaller, family-owned park, Southern Gates offers 53 sites, over half are pull
thru's with full hookup. Both 30 and 50 amp sites are available with a few 20
amps, if you have a smaller unit.
As part of the "Presidential Pathways" area
of Georgia, there are lots of interesting places to see. Many guests choose
Southern Gates as their central location due to its close proximity to I-75 and
make day trips to see interesting sites or get in a round of golf.
Snowbirds
are welcomed, and many flock here because of reasonable prices and mild weather
and stay for a month or two before heading further south. Some enjoy the
campground and community and come back each winter.
In the winter months,
bingo, euchre and assorted games are played, and there are campfires and
potlucks, depending on the crowd. The bathhouse is clean and has plenty of hot
water. Laundry, phone and modem hookup is available 24/7. There are two fishing
ponds, which are catch and release. The pool is clean and open as weather
permits. Pets are welcome.
Sam Shortline is a 1949 vintage train that will
take you from Cordele to your choice of several different stops. The ride is
relaxing and a great way to see the "real South". The Jimmy Carter National
Historic Site is nearby in Plains, Ga. Andersonville National Historic Site,
which consists of The Civil War Village of Andersonville, Civil War Prison and
National Cemetery is a must-see for all history buffs and families interested in
American history and the Civil War. Other sites to see close by are: the Georgia
Rural Telephone Museum, which boasts the most complete collection of telephony;
Agrirama, an 1800s living history museum north of Tifton; and five golf
courses.
Southern Gates is located just 10 miles south of Cordele on I-75 at
exit 92 at 138 Campsite Rd, Arabi, GA 31712. For more info: 229-273-6464 or
www.southerngates.com.
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