Author Archives: Kristy Johnson

Take a Hike

Sports

Outdoor fun is afoot on a collection of Columbia County trails.

Columbia County has always been a great place to enjoy outdoor recreation, but now it’s even better with the launch of the Bombasin Land Trail.

The Bombasin is a collection of eight land trails on the sub-basins of the Savannah River, and the scenic routes are ideal for biking, hiking, walking or running. They include:

Bartram Trail
Level: All
Length: 22.5 miles
Activities: Backpacking, hiking, mountain biking, running, walking, camping

Lake Springs Loop
Level: Beginner
Length: 3 miles
Activities: Camping, hiking, fishing, mountain biking, running, walking

Keg Creek Loop
Level: Advanced
Length: 9 miles
Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, running, walking

Rock Dam Trail
Level: Advanced
Length: 6.25 miles
Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, running, walking

Blanchard Woods Cross Country Trail
Level: All
Length: 2.8 miles
Activities: Biking, hiking, mountain biking, running, walking

Augusta Canal Tow Path
Level: All
Length: 7.85 miles
Activities: Biking, fishing, mountain biking, walking

Euchee Creek Greenway
Level: All
Length: 8 miles
Activities: Biking, hiking, running, walking

Evans To Locks Multi-Use Trail
Level: All
Length: 6 miles
Activities: Biking, walking, wheelchair accessible

Like the Serene18 Paddle Trail, this land trail system, which offers views ranging from scenic forests to urban landscapes, was developed to attract visitors to Columbia County. Of course, the trails are great for residents, too, whether they’re looking for solitude or family time.

For more information or a free guide, visit BombasinTrail.com.

Racquet Center Open

Sports

The Columbia County Racquet Center, formerly Petersburg Racquet Club, has opened for play in Martinez.

No reservations are required to use the hard tennis courts, but reservations are required for clay courts. To make a reservation, call (706) 860-9288 or visit the office. Hours are 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. daily.

Construction of new pickleball courts on the former site of the swimming pool will begin this year, and they should be completed by early 2024. The Board of Commissioners also will set a fee schedule for the facility.

Street Eats

People

Photos courtesy of Wallace Dickerson, Funnel Cake Lounge, The Crazy Empanada, Big T’s Seafood and Columbia County

The food truck and popup scene is cookin’ up fun all around town.

Some people might think food trucks are all about bringing creative dining options to customers. That’s not wrong, but we’ll let you in on a secret. Food truck culture really is about bringing people together and making them happy. And few things make people happier than sharing good food among friends.

“Everyone meets and greets each other when a food truck comes out,” says Andre Walker, owner and creator of Funnel Cake Lounge. “They can enjoy their meal or sweet treat and have a good time before they go back to reality.”

Mobile Food Culture
Reality for Andre is that his food truck has been good for business. He opened Funnel Cake Lounge in Martinez in 2021 and added the food truck in August 2022.

“A lot of my customers were coming into my store and requesting a food truck,” says Andre.

He initially opposed the idea because of the additional expenses involved, but ultimately he discovered that the customer is always right.

“I love it,” Andre says. “I regret not doing it sooner.”

Big T’s Seafood, which has been in business for 12 years and moved its restaurant to Grovetown in 2018, added a food truck in 2021. Owners Tim Daniels Sr. and his wife, Veronica, made the leap because they wanted to expand their reach in the community.

“We get to see people that we don’t see at the restaurant,” says Tim. “We get to go into different neighborhoods, and we’ve picked up a lot of new customers.”

For Nuni Hernandez, who went the popup tent instead of food truck route,” her foray into the mobile food culture has followed the ups and downs of her life. The Crazy Empanada owner first ventured into the concept when she saw a version of herself in the movie, Chef. In this 2014 film, a head chef trades his restaurant job for a food truck to reclaim his creative promise and reunite his family.

Opening her first popup in 2017 when she was going through a divorce, Nuni, a culinary student at the time, took her last $20 and bought enough dough to make 50 empanadas. She took them to the Augusta Market and sold every one of them.

“Movies can be inspiring. Movies can take you a long way,” she says.

Nuni opened a Crazy Empanada restaurant in 2020 but closed it in 2022 when she lost her father. However, the fulltime chef would like to “get back out there” and do popups again.

“I love what I do,” she says. “I love to see people’s reactions when they have my food. People love everything about our concepts.”

Mouth-Dropping, Eye-Popping Food
Local food trucks are available for occasions ranging from festivals and community events like Columbia County’s popular Food Truck Friday to private gatherings such as office parties, family reunions, weddings, church outings and neighborhood get-togethers. Food truck operators say people typically reach out to them through word-of-mouth or social media, and their menus vary according to the size of the event.

Funnel Cake Lounge, which temporarily closed its storefront for remodeling from February to mid-June, limits its offerings for large events to keep the line moving. Nevertheless, 13 items including S’more Lovin, Banana Jamma, Plain Jane Powdered Sugar and Cheesecake Lover, plus the most popular funnel cakes – Strawberry Shortcake and Cookie Crumble – are always on the menu.

With other creations such as Oh Split, Counting My Dough, Driving Me Bananas, Where It All Pecan and Cereal Killer, however, the funn’l never end with this food truck. In addition, customers can create their own combinations with ingredients ranging from ice cream and cookie dough to nuts and gummy bears.

There’s nothing Andre enjoys more than seeing his customers’ reactions to the desserts. “I love to watch people’s mouth drop and see their eyes get big,” he says.

Big T’s serves fried foods including shrimp, catfish, tilapia, green tomatoes and hush puppies. Catfish is the most popular item on the food truck. For a private event, the menu depends on the customer’s request.

“A lot of people like food trucks for convenience,” says Tim. “They think, ‘I’ve never been to that restaurant, but I’ll try the food truck.’”

He says the key to his success is, “Clean, clean, clean – and fresh.”

With its Latin fusion menu, the Crazy Empanada quickly became known for its Cuban, Mexican, Puerto Rican and Brazilian foods such as Cuban sandwiches, empanadas, arepas, tacos and fried tostones.

“I get to tell a story with every food I make,” Nuni says. “I get to tell the story of my grandmother making me my favorite empanada. My Cuban sandwich is a reminder of my youth in Florida with my friends. I want people to feel like they’re in my house. I want them to have a great experience.”

Good Business Model
Food trucks run on generators, and standard equipment ranges from grills and fryers to freezers, warming cabinets to heating tables, sinks to refrigerators. They also have to adhere to health department regulations, and these three entrepreneurs say the mobile food concept has been a good business model.

“A food truck is really profitable if you do it right,” Andre says. “Since we’ve been under renovation, our food truck has been booked every single day.”

Food trucks are fairly easy and economical to start, the operators say, and their mobility is a definite advantage.

“If your business isn’t thriving in one place, you can go to another,” Andre says. “It’s a good way to market yourself, and it’s a good networking tool. It gives you an opportunity to meet people from all over and expand. It has allowed me to take Funnel Cake Lounge to other cities, and people are interesting in franchising it.”

Nuni, who says presentation is just as important as innovation, agrees. “You can go anywhere. A restaurant cannot move,” she says. “Once you make a name for yourself, everybody wants you.”

In addition, Andre says food trucks are another revenue source for struggling businesses. He also lets his employees set their own schedules by staffing the food truck. “They can take a break or get their 40 hours a week to meet their sales goals,” he says. “They can be their own boss and help you grow your business.”

Tim has found that overhead isn’t as high for a food truck as it is for a restaurant.

“We get the food out because we’re not serving as much as we serve at a restaurant,” he says. “We actually reach more people because we can go to private parties and private events. We’re mobile, and we can move our business around.”

Keeping up with demand has been the biggest operational challenge for Funnel Cake Lounge. Andre says he turns down 40 to 50 bookings, including about 10 in Columbia County, per month because the food truck is on the road so often.

He also says that driving long distances, weather cancelations and limited storage space can be disadvantages.

“People are disappointed if you run out of something,” he adds.

The biggest challenge in operating a food truck for Big T’s is staffing because it pulls servers away from the restaurant. However, Tim chooses the people that go on the food truck with him.

Overall, however, the food truck operators have found that these enterprises increase their accessibility to their customers and their customers’ interactions with each other.

“At a restaurant, people sit, order, eat and go. They’re more casual and connected when they’re eating outside,” Nuni says. “Popups bring people together because they get to talk and share and see when they’re waiting for their food. I hear people ask each other, ‘What is that? Where did you get that?’”

After all, novelty is a food truck staple.

“This is how people discover new foods,” Andre says. “With a food truck, you can take a risk. It allows for more variety, and people venture out to see what’s not in a brick-and-mortar store.”

Food Truck Fridays
The Columbia County Food Truck Friday series rotates among three different county parks. The hours are 6-9 p.m., and live music begins at 7 p.m. Bring chairs and blankets.

July 14
Gateway Park, Grovetown

July 28
Evans Towne Center Park

August 25
Evans Towne Center Park

September 8
Eubank Blanchard Par, Appling

September 22
Evans Towne Center Park

By Betsy Gilliland

Event Volunteers Needed

Sports

Augusta Sports Council is seeking volunteers for the USA Cycling Masters & Para Road National Championships that will be held August 22-27.

More than 300 volunteers will be needed during the week for event set-up and breakdown, registration, athlete hydration, course marshals and more.

This year’s event is expected to attract 600 to 800 athletes competing for national championships in road and individual time trials on Fort Gordon August 23-26 and the criterium in downtown Augusta on August 27.

For more information, visit greateraugustasportscouncil.volunteerlocal.com.

Juicy Watermelon Cake

Desserts

1 watermelon
2 cups grapes
1 cup strawberries
1 cup blueberries
1 cup raspberries
Fresh mint, for garnish

Cut top and bottom off watermelon so it will sit straight. Cut away rind and smooth with a vegetable peeler. Place on cake plate or serving platter and garnish with fresh fruit and mint leaves. Makes one cake.

National Championships Regatta

Sports

Augusta Sailing Club is hosting the Y Flyer Nationals at Clarks Hills Lake Monday, June 12 through Friday, June 16.

The Junior National Championships are scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, and adults will compete in the Senior National Championships on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

This is the first time in 45 years the club has hosted the regatta, and about 50 to 80 sailboats are expected to compete.

High Water Marks

Sports

There’s something about water in general – and the Serene18 in particular – that soothes the soul. The Serene18 covers 18 square miles on five local waterway trails where paddlers can leisurely while away a few hours in a kayak or canoe. Just don’t forget to enjoy the beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife along the way. The trails include:

Clarks Hill Lake
Level: Novice – intermediate
Length: 6 miles
Travel Time: 4 – 6 hours

Dam Route
Level: Novice
Length: 7 miles
Travel Time: 2.5 – 4 hours

Stallings Island
Level: Intermediate
Length: 2.7 miles
Travel Time: 2 hours

Betty’s Branch
Level: Novice
Length: Short route – 4 miles; long route – 6 miles
Travel Time: Short route – 2 hours; long route – 3.5 hours

Augusta Canal
Level: Novice
Length: 7 miles
Travel Time: 2.5 hours

Paddlers can get a free passport, and once they complete a trail, they can get their passports stamped to commemorate their trip. Passports and stamps are available at Keg Creek Water Sports at Wildwood Park, Cole Watkins Kayak Tours, Outdoor Augusta at Riverside Park, Savannah Rapids Kayak Rental and Columbia County Visitors Center. Anyone who gets all five stamps can take their passport to the Columbia County Convention and Visitors Bureau for a free T-shirt.

For more information, go to visitcolumbiacountyga.com/serene18-paddle-trail.

Serenity at Soap Creek

In The Home

Photography by Sally Kolar

Life is laid back, quiet and easy at this Clarks Hills Lake hideaway.

Clarks Hill Lake resident Brandon Barden might find himself between boats from time to time. As far as lake houses are concerned, however, he found a keeper.

In September 2021, he bought a three-story house in the Soap Creek area of the lake.

The Lincolnton native was moving back home after 10 years of city life in Nashville, Tennessee and other metropolitan areas as he pursued a career in the NFL.

Brandon quarterbacked the Lincoln County High School football team to back-to-back Class A state titles in the 2005-06 seasons under legendary coach Larry Campbell, who also coached Brandon’s dad. After transitioning to tight end at Vanderbilt University, Brandon played the same position as a pro from 2012 to 2015.

One thing that never changed, however, was his love for his hometown, where his family spent many weekends boating at Clarks Hill when he was in high school.

“I always wanted a lake house. This house was built in 1983, and I saw it when I was growing up,” Brandon says. “I wanted to come back home to be closer to family. I’m a country boy at heart.”

Back to Nature

Surrounded by pine trees, the house has views of the lake through large windows on all three levels. The home also sits sideways on the irregularly shaped, .7-acre lot so that it faces U.S. Army Corps of Engineers land and the water – not the neighbors.

“There were trees everywhere when I bought the property, but my dad and I cleared the land,” says Brandon. “The lot feels bigger than it is.”

They also landscaped the property, put in a gravel driveway and painted the interior of the house.

Whether he is working on the house, furniture, cars or tractors, Brandon likes to redo things. He and some of his friends repainted and reroofed his dock, and he likes to buy boats, fix them up and sell them as well.

Arranging eight seats, which were cut from the trunk of a large red oak tree that was on the property, around a metal fire pit, he also created a natural outdoor sitting area. “I like the simple look,” Brandon says.

Edison lights are strung through the trees around the fire pit, and a bright red picnic table is situated nearby. The yard, where a deer feeder attracts 10 or so deer at dusk, is an ideal place to connect with nature.

A dirt road runs past the house, and Brandon takes his English cocker spaniel, Remi, for daily walks down the path that ends at the lake. A bench on the bank is an inviting spot to sit and watch the sunset.

Of course, so is the covered front porch of the house. The porch features white columns, tile flooring, six lantern light fixtures on the wall, three ceiling fans, two red rocking chairs and a wood bench. Other décor includes an old chest and a print by local folk artist Leonard Jones.

Whenever the lake is calling, though, fishing rods are stored strategically by the front door.

An open patio on the side of the house also faces the water. Furnishings include two red Adirondack chairs and a red table with four red spring back chairs. A white spiral staircase leads to the screened-in porch upstairs.

Made for R&R

Just as the outdoor setting offers lots of scenery and serenity, the interior of the home is made for R&R as well.

The double glass front doors lead into a game room with a pool table and a basket full of board games. Soothing green walls serve as the backdrop for a “Carpe Diem” sign, small canoe paddles and vintage Clarks Hill Lake prints. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame picturesque views of the lake.

The view continues in the downstairs living room, which features a two-sided, raised-hearth, wood-burning stone fireplace that extends up to the second story. The identical fireplaces have a wood beam mantel and storage for firewood on one side.

A fly rod that belonged to Brandon’s grandfather hangs on the wall above the floor-to-ceiling windows, and fishing pictures are nestled between the windows. Many of the furnishings are antiques, and Brandon uses a tiger wood chest with crystal drawer knobs as a TV stand.

“Most of the furniture is from boutiques or secondhand,” he says. “I didn’t want to go modern because it’s not a modern house.”

A downstairs guest room includes an antique chest tucked between twin beds with wood headboards. More nostalgic Clarks Hill prints hang on the wall above the beds.

‘The Spot’

While the lake view is gorgeous from the first floor, it’s simply stunning from the upstairs living room.

“This is the spot,” says Brandon. “This is where I spend most of my time.”

With a feeling of spaciousness, the upper level features more windows that stretch from the pine flooring to the tongue-and-groove cathedral ceiling.

“The ceiling is one of the prettiest features of the house,” Brandon says. “We painted the walls off-white to make the ceiling pop.”

Furnishings include a contemporary floor lamp, leather chaise lounge, dropleaf table behind a leather couch, leather chair with an ottoman, antique rocking chair and TV. Reflecting Brandon’s love of the outdoors, three deer heads are mounted above the fireplace and a duck decoy made of cork sits on the wood beam mantel.

Hanging on the stone fireplace, an old saw blade is painted with a spring scene on one side and a fall scene on the other. An old-fashioned fireplace bellows leans against the stone wall.

The view through the windows is just as impressive at night as it is in the daytime.

“When the moon is full, it comes through the windows and shines onto the porch,” says Brandon.

Moonlight isn’t the only attraction of the covered screened-in porch, however. The space also features a white cathedral ceiling, wicker couch, round table with two chairs, strands of Edison lights and mosquito net in the doorway.

“It’s nice to come out here in the morning and feel the cool air,” Brandon says. “It’s like natural AC.”

Tucked between the living room and the screened-in porch, the dining area includes a distressed wood table with a bench on each side and a chair at each end. Brandon, who works in sales, uses the table as his desk, and he likes to leave the door open when he’s working at his laptop.

The kitchen includes a coffee station, granite countertops, tile backsplash and two barstools at the peninsula. Three small shelves are hung by rope on the wall. The middle shelf holds an upside down wood “Lake” sign with an arrow.

It’s no accident that the sign is upside down, though. The arrow is facing the wrong direction, so Brandon simply flipped it so that the arrow would point toward the lake.

Wakeup Call

This level of the house also includes the master bedroom, which has a king-sized bed with a studded leather headboard and footboard, and a guest room.

Painted a deep shade of blue, the guest room features antique furnishings such as a bed with a wood-slatted headboard, dresser with a mirror and ladderback chair.

A nook with another bed and bath overlooks the upstairs living room. This loft space also includes a tongue-and-groove ceiling and pine flooring with a darker stain.

“Waking up here is beautiful,” says Brandon. “There’s just a little fog on the water. The mornings are spectacular.”

The only thing better than looking at the lake, though, is spending time on it. Whether he’s on his Jet Ski or his current boat, Brandon goes out on the lake every weekend.

“I love it here. It’s so peaceful and quiet,” he says. “I enjoyed living in cities, but I always wanted to come back home. There’s nothing like living in the country.”

By Betsy Gilliland

Grilled Veggie Board

Entrees

3 Yukon Gold potatoes
1/2 pound assorted peppers, sliced
1/2 pound mushrooms, stems removed
1/2 pound green beans
3 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise
1 lemon, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish

Grease grill grate and heat grill to medium. Boil potatoes whole for 5 minutes and pat dry; cut into slices 1/2-inch thick. Place vegetables in a large pan with olive oil, salt and pepper and lightly toss until coated. Transfer to veggie basket and grill 8-10 minutes or until desired doneness, turning once. Transfer to serving board and garnish with sprigs of fresh rosemary. Makes 4-6 servings.

Parks with Campgrounds

Lake Guide

Baker Creek State Park
McCormick
Picnic area, shelters, grills, drinking water, pavilion, camp store, ranger station, volleyball, basketball, horseshoe pit, 10-mile hiking/biking trail, 2 boat ramps, fishing, 34 campsites for RVs or tents, restrooms, showers, dump station. (864) 443-2457, southcarolinaparks.com

Big Hart Campground & Recreation Area
Thomson
Beach, picnic sites, picnic shelter with large grill ($100/day), playground, boat ramp, dock, drinking water, 31 waterfront campsites with water and electricity ($30 per night), showers, flush and vault toilets, dump station. (706) 699-6258, bighartcampground.com

Broad River Park & Campground
Lincoln County
Single, double and triple campsites with water and electricity ($15-$27); boat ramp; restrooms; showers; fish-cleaning stations; dump station. Day use pass is $5 per car. Annual park pass $40. Located on the south bank of the Broad River where it joins the Savannah River on Clarks Hill Lake. (800) 405-1033, exploregeorgia.org

Bussey Point
Lincolnton
Beaches, boat ramp, picnic area, fire rings and grills, central well with hand pump for drinking water, hiking trails, mountain biking, more than 20 miles of well-marked wooded equestrian trails and natural surfaced roads for riding, 14 waterfront primitive campsites ($6 per night) large enough for horse trailers, highlines for tethering horses. Admission is $10. (864) 333-1100, exploregeorgia.org

Clay Hill Campground
Lincolnton
Picnic area, boat ramp, fishing, grill, fire pit, 10 campsites with water and electricity ($27 per night), 7 primitive campsites ($15 per night), showers, restrooms, dump station. $40 annual park pass. Located on the north side of Georgia’s Little River section. Shoreline offers excellent fishing for bluegill and other species of bream. (800) 405-1033, exploregeorgia.org

Elijah Clark State Park
Lincolnton
Beach, playgrounds, picnic areas, picnic shelters, trading post camp store, group shelters, miniature golf, canoe and kayak rentals, boat ramps, hiking trails, fishing pier, fish-cleaning station, educational programs, geocaching, 165 RV and trailer sites, pioneer camping, 10 walk-in tent sites, 20 cottages. (706) 359-3458, gastateparks.org

Hamilton Branch State Park
Plum Branch
Playground, picnic area, shelters, bike trail, hiking trail, boat ramps, fishing, 150 campsites (mostly waterfront) with water/electricity, 6 primitive group sites, restrooms, showers, dump station. (864) 333-2223, southcarolinaparks.com

Hawe Creek Campground
McCormick
Boat ramp, drinking water, 34 waterfront RV and tent campsites with water and electricity ($26-$28/night), showers, flush and vault toilets, trash collection. Five miles from Hickory Knob State Park. (864) 443-5441, recreation.gov

Hesters Ferry Campground
Lincoln County
Picnic area, grill, 16 waterfront RV campsites with water and electricity ($27 per night), 10 waterfront tent campsites ($15 per night), showers, restrooms, dump station. Located on Fishing Creek, which is known for some of the best fishing on the lake. (706) 359-2746, exploregeorgia.org

Hickory Knob State Resort Park
McCormick
Playground, swimming pool, restaurant, store and gift shop, hiking and mountain bike trails, boat ramp, dock, fishing, canoeing and kayaking, lakeside championship golf course, practice putting green, tennis, archery, skeet shooting, 16 cabins, 44 RV and tent campsites with water and electricity, showers, dump station, meeting rooms, convention center. (864) 391-2450, southcarolinaparks.com

Leroys Ferry Campground
McCormick
Picnic table, grill, fire ring, boat ramp with security light, 10 primitive campsites without water or electrical hookups ($10), rustic toilets, hand pump for drinking water. Pets allowed. (800) 533-3478, recreation.gov

Mistletoe State Park
Appling
Beach, picnic shelters, boat ramps, dock, canoe rentals, fishing, biking and hiking trails, cottages, fisherman’s cabin with private dock, beach house (seats 75), 93 RV, trailer and tent sites, 3 backcountry campsites, pioneer campground, walk-in campsites, planned park activities. Costs vary. $5 parking. (706) 541-0321, gastateparks.org

Modoc Campground
Modoc
Playground, picnic shelter, boat ramp, grills, drinking water, hiking trails, campground host, 68 waterfront RV campsites with water and electricity and 1 primitive campsite ($18-$54 per night), showers, flush and vault toilets, laundry facilities, dump station. Five miles from Thurmond Visitor Center. (864) 333-2272.

Petersburg Campground
Appling
Beaches, playground, picnic shelter, grill, fishing pier, boat ramp, hiking trail, 93 waterfront RV and tent campsites ($16-$24 per night), showers, drinking water, flush and vault toilets. Four miles from Thurmond Visitor Center. (706) 541-9464.

Plum Branch Yacht Club
Plum Branch
Beach, pavilions, boat ramp, ship’s store, Lakeside Grill restaurant, 63 waterfront RV campsites with water and electricity, primitive campsites, bathhouse, restrooms, covered and uncovered moorage and dry storage, fuel. (864) 443-3000, plumbranch.com

Pointes West Army Resort
Appling
Beach, playgrounds, picnic tables, pavilions, grill, fire ring, boat ramps, pontoon boat rentals, camper rentals, camping equipment rentals, country store, bathhouse, fishing, hiking with Bartram Trail access, 58 waterfront campsites with water and electricity ($20-$25 per night), 20 waterfront campsites with electricity only ($10 per night), primitive campsites ($7 per night), waterfront cottages, cabins and rustic motel suites, boat storage sheds and slips, camper storage, conference center. Military or government ID required. (706) 541-1057, gordon.armymwr.com

Raysville Campground
Thomson
Boat ramp, fire pit, grill, 55 campsites with water and electricity ($30), showers, TV/cable hookup, dump station. Within a mile of Amity Recreation Area, which has beaches, picnic shelters and ball field. (706) 699-6257, raysvillecampground.coms

Ridge Road Campground
Appling
Beach, playground, picnic area, drinking water, boat ramp, dock, grill, fire pit, 69 RV campsites with water and electricity, 6 tent sites ($12-$24 per night), showers, flush and vault toilets, dump station, trash collection, TV/cable hookup. (706) 541-0282, exploregeorgia.org

Soap Creek Marina Campground
Lincolnton
Beach, picnic area, convenience store, boat ramps, gas dock, hiking trails, restrooms, bathhouse, 30 RV campsites with water and electricity, 5 lakeside cottage rentals, slip rentals, electrical hookups, water. (706) 359-4100, soapcreekmarina.com

Wildwood Park
Appling
Beach, pavilions, playgrounds, mega boat ramp, docks, fishing, weigh-in station, riding trails, showers, restrooms, International Disc Golf Center with three 18-hole courses, 61 RV and tent campsites, camper storage. Admission is $3 per car, truck or motorcycle per day or $6 for a vehicle with a boat/watercraft or horse trailer. 1.5 miles from Pollard’s Corner. (706) 541-0586, columbiacountyga.gov.

Winfield Campground
Appling
Beach, playground, picnic area, grill, boat ramp, drinking water, 80 RV and tent campsites with water and electricity, showers, flush and vault toilets, dump station. Located on Little River near Mistletoe State Park. (706) 541-0147, exploregeorgia.org

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Day-Use Recreation Areas (No Campgrounds)

Amity Recreation Area
Lincoln County
Beaches and swim area, playground, picnic area, shelters, boat ramp, fishing pier, baseball field. Entrance fee is $5 per car. 8 a.m.-8:30 p.m. For shelter reservations, call (706) 359-4444, recreation.gov

Below Dam Recreation Area
McCormick County
Playground, picnic area, shelters, mini shelters, fishing pier, boat ramp, walking trail, restrooms, drinking water. No swimming or wading due to strong currents. Entrance fee is $5 per car. 8 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Across from Thurmond Visitor Center. (864) 333-1147, recreation.gov

Cherokee Recreation Area
Lincolnton
Beach, playground, picnic area, picnic shelters, boat ramp, dock, restrooms, drinking water, nature trails, facilities for handicapped. Entrance fee is $5 per vehicle. Thu.-Mon. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Just across Little River Bridge on the right. (706) 359-5525 or (706) 359-5523, exploregeorgia.org

Clarks Hill Park Recreation Area
McCormick
Beach swimming areas, picnic areas, shelters, grills, drinking water, restrooms, boat ramp, fishing pier, fish cleaning stations, hiking trails. Entrance fee is $5 per car. 8 a.m.-8:30 p.m. (877) 444-6777, recreation.gov

Gill Point Recreation Area
Lincoln County
Picnic area, picnic shelter, drinking water, restrooms, boat ramp, dock. Entrance fee is $5 per car. 8 a.m.-8:30 p.m. (800) 533-3478, recreation.gov

Keg Creek Wildlife Management Area
Appling
Picnic area, canoe access, hiking trails, fishing, boating. Two miles from Pollard’s Corner. (706) 595-4222, exploregeorgia.org

Lake Springs Recreation Area
Appling
Swim beaches, playground, picnic areas, picnic shelters ($75-$125 per day), drinking water, restrooms, boat ramp, fishing pier, volleyball, horseshoe pits, walking and biking trails, Bartram Trail entrance point. Entrance fee is $5 per car. 8 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Three miles from Pollard’s Corner. For shelter reservations, call (800) 533-3478, exploregeorgia.org

Parksville Recreation Area
Parksville
Beaches, playground, picnic area, shelters, restrooms, boat ramp, ball field. Entrance fee is $5 per car. 8 a.m.-8:30 p.m. (800) 533-3478, exploregeorgia.org

West Dam Recreation Area
Appling
Beaches, playgrounds, picnic areas, shelters, restrooms, fishing, Bartram Trail entrance point. Entrance fee is $5 per car. 8 a.m.-8:30 p.m. One mile from Thurmond Visitor Center. (800) 533-3478, exploregeorgia.org

Top Trails for Hiking, Biking, Kayaking and Horseback Riding

Lake Guide

Bartram Trail – 18.5 miles
Columbia County
Bartram is a fast beginner/intermediate trail with lots of views of the lake. Entrances are at West Dam Park, Lake Springs, Petersburg Campground and Wildwood Park. The section from West Dam to Petersburg is beginner, and the others offer more climbing, creek crossings and technical challenges. Bartram connects with Lake Springs Loop and easily links with Keg Creek and Mistletoe State Park trails. sorbacsra.org

Bussey Point Horse Trail – 12 miles
Lincolnton
Bussey Point is a 2,545-acre peninsula at the confluence of the Savannah and Little rivers that caters to horse lovers. Closed to vehicular traffic, there are more than 20 miles of well-marked wooded equestrian trails and natural-surfaced roads. The main wood trail, marked with yellow diamonds, is 12 miles, and there is a shorter loop of 6.5 miles. Shoes for horses are optional, but roads and trails can be rocky so some riders like at least front shoes. The area is open to hikers and bikers, but they are rarely encountered.

Catfish Creek/Peninsula – 6.5 miles
McCormick County
Catfish Peninsula is a 1,070-acre peninsula along the Savannah River portion of the lake. The area contains 10 trail roads that branch out through the area that contains six food plots. There are no trail signs in the area.

Cherokee Quarry – .5 miles
Lincoln County
The trail circles an old strip quarry that has been converted (mostly by beavers) to a wetland and pond area. Waterfowl are common on the pond, and a spur tail leads to the shoreline. There are no trail signs in the area.

Cliatt Creek Nature Loop – 3.75 miles
Appling
Located in Mistletoe State Park, this remote trail is marked with white blazes. Grades are a little steep, and there are a few obstacles. The footbridges at most water crossings are wide enough for bikes, although the approaches are difficult. Part of the trail follows Cliatt Creek through a hardwood forest as it flows toward the lake, while another section wanders through woods with a gentle series of dips and rolls.

Dozier Branch Canoe/Kayak Trail – 2 miles
Lincoln County
From the launching area, head downstream along Dozier Branch to where it joins Grey’s Creek, then go north along the creek until the water is too shallow to go any further. These creeks provide excellent fishing but are not accessible to most power boats. There are no trail markers, and extra caution should be used during periods of high stream flows.

Forks Area Trail System (FATS) – 37 miles
Sumter National Forest
Designated as an Epic Trail by the International Mountain Biking Association, a series of six different loops through a thickly forested area makes this a great system for beginner to intermediate riders with optional challenging lines for more experienced riders. Although hilly, there are not many climbs that require a lot of effort or dismounts. sorbacsra.org

Hickory Knob Trails — 10.2 miles
McCormick
Multiple loops and fast trails are fun and challenging for the intermediate rider. Located in Hickory Knob State Park, the Lake Loop is 7 miles, Turkey Ridge is a 1.7-mile loop and Beaver Run is a 2.5-mile out-and-back. sorbacsra.org

Keg Creek Trail – 9.2 miles
Appling
This intermediate level trail, marked with yellow blazes, is a fun ride full of roots, dips, bridges and creek crossings that are technical enough to be challenging but easy enough for fairly novice riders. Some of the creek crossings are easy; some are difficult. Connects with Bartram Trail at Wildwood Park and links with Rock Dam Trail by less than 3 miles of paved road. sorbacsra.org

Lake Springs Loop – 2.5 miles
Columbia County
Located in the Lake Springs Recreation Area, this paved trail with white blazes is a horseshoe off Bartram Trail (yellow blazes) and offers a little more climbing and technical challenge than the main Bartram it bypasses. Secondary trails identified with red blazes allow visitors to explore the Lake Springs shoreline. The trail connects the four peninsulas that make up the park and ends at an observation tower overlooking the lake.

Little River Blueway Outdoor Adventure Area – Multiple trails
McCormick
Located at the convergence of Little River and Clarks Hill Lake in Sumter National Forest, the Blueway offers 51 miles of diverse and scenic water trails, 136 miles of hiking and biking trails, two state parks bordering Savannah Lakes Village, four golf courses, five campgrounds, access to historical sites and a skeet and archery range. The Forks Area Trail System (FATS — designated as an Epic Trail by the International Mountain Biking Association), the Turkey/Wine Creek Trail and Steven’s Creek Trail are all within a 30-mile drive from Blueway Base Camp.

Modoc (Stevens Creek) – 5.5 miles
Modoc
An out-and-back trail for intermediate or advanced riders, this trail is best known for its multiple creek and ditch crossings. It is one of the most technically challenging trails in the area. sorbacsra.org

Rock Dam Trail – 13 miles
Appling
Located in Mistletoe State Park with access by the Cliatt Creek Nature Loop, this intermediate/advanced trail is marked with blue blazes and will challenge even the most seasoned rider with several creek crossings, a gully ride and a long, rocky, rooty, extremely off-camber climb. Most riders prefer the loop in the clockwise direction. This trail can be linked with Keg Creek by less than 3 miles of easy pedaling on paved roads. sorbacsra.org

Shriver Creek – 3.25 miles
Lincoln County
Shriver Creek is a 900-acre peninsula along the Savannah River portion of the lake. The area contains six trail roads that branch out through the area. Most trails go to or pass one of six food plots. There are no trail signs in the area.

Turkey Creek – 7 miles
One of the CSRA’s old-school trails, much of this intermediate out-and-back trail is carved into the hillside along Turkey Creek with scenic views and lots of bridges. There are some roots, but nothing difficult. Cross Key Road to get on Wine Creek. sorbacsra.org

Wildwood Park – 12 miles
Appling
Columbia County’s 975-acre park includes up to 12 miles of wooded trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. The more advanced biking portion of Bartram Trail from Petersburg to Wildwood Park offers nine miles of fast single-track challenges. A brisk ride through Wildwood takes riders to nearly eight miles of more technical obstacles of Keg Creek. Entry is $3 per day per car, truck or motorcycle. The entry fee for vehicles with a horse trailer is $6 per horse per day. columbiacountyga.gov

Wine Creek – 5.5 miles (one-way)
Wine Creek is a fast and fun 5.5-mile, one-way trail with technical challenges for intermediate riders. It is one of the most scenic trails in the area with several creek crossings and a long rocky section on the edge of the creek. Ride across Key Road to get on Turkey Creek. sorbacsra.org

Kroc to Lock Ride

Sports

It’s time to get it in gear for the annual Kroc to Lock Ride on Sunday, May 21 from noon until 4 p.m.

The 10-mile ride starts at Kroc Augusta, proceeds up the Augusta Canal towpath to the headgates and then heads back to the Kroc green space for a post-ride picnic. The menu features grilled hot dogs, drinks and Pelican’s SnoBalls. Matt the Mod also will be on hand for a live DJ set.

The cost is $35, and 100% of the net proceeds will benefit the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area and future biking projects.

The registration deadline is Monday, May 15; no onsite registration will be available. For more information, visit andyjordans.com or bikesignup.com.

Well Played

In The Home

Photography by Sally Kolar

This West Lake home is the perfect place to retreat with family or entertain a crowd.

For many people, house hunting in the midst of the pandemic could have been stressful. Not for Jill and Pittman Morris, however.

“It gave us an opportunity to focus on something besides the pandemic,” she says.

After looking at a two-story, red brick house in West Lake, the couple knew they had found

a place where they could weather the pandemic with their two children, Jack and Emma. Even better, they could enjoy their new home for many years to come.

In addition, Jill, who had lived in West Lake as a teenager, says the previous owners had done “massive renovations,” so there were few changes they needed to make when they moved into the home in August 2020.

“The house had a modern, but comfortable, feel that really appealed to us,” Jill says.

Pittman agrees. “We like the open floor plan and how it flows,” he says.

Meaningful Mementoes

The Morrises, who met while studying abroad, worked from home during the pandemic, and they have continued to do so when possible. Jill’s office features a desk that was a gift from her mother. In addition, two bookcases that line one wall came from the Sumter County courthouse, where Pittman’s grandfather served as district attorney.

“The bookcases were in my grandfather’s home when I was growing up,” says Pittman.

The office also includes a transom window above each of the two doors, a pocket door from the foyer, a pair of arched windows, a chair rail and wainscoting on the walls.

“It was supposed to be a formal living room, but we didn’t need it,” says Jill.

Instead, their living room is a homey space with built-in bookcases, four white columns, a TV above the fireplace with marble surround and a sunken floor.

“It reminds me of my grandmother’s house,” Jill says. “She had a sunken dining room.”

Furnishings include swivel chairs and a small writing desk in a corner. The desk, which came from Jill’s mother, has drawers on its sides and a flip-open top.

“My mom loved to collect unique-looking furniture,” says Jill.

A German Christmas pyramid on an end table is another small, but meaningful, piece in the living room. The pyramid features a train in honor of Pittman’s father, who was a train engineer for CSX, and it was a gift from Jill’s mother to her grandchildren.

“Every year my mother gets the kids something in memory of Pittman’s parents to remind them of their grandparents,” Jill says.

Jill’s fondness for birds is reflected in the décor throughout the house, and two blue and white paintings of birds on a living room wall started the avian theme. Her sister, Anne Luckey, has provided them with a number of paintings, including three Masters Tournament paintings in the foyer, as well.

“She does most of our artwork,” says Jill.

Elegant Entertaining

The white cabinets in the large kitchen give the space an open, airy feel, and Jill loves to spend time there.

The kitchen also features black leathered granite countertops on the perimeter cabinets, a marble granite countertop on the island, tile backsplash, farmhouse sink, stainless steel range hood, pot filler and glass-front cabinets with glass shelves.

With one of three fireplaces in the house – another feature that sold the Morrises on the home, the adjoining keeping room is a favorite gathering spot for the family as well.

“I have always wanted a keeping room. My friend had one growing up,” says Jill. “We watch a lot of movies in the keeping room. It’s just cozy. This whole section of the house is where we usually are.”

Large windows overlook the backyard pool so their parents can keep an eye on Jack and Emma when they’re outside.

The kitchen also connects to the dining room, a large space that can accommodate everyone with ease when the Morrises host holiday gatherings with Jill’s extended family.

Upholstered chairs surround the dining room table that Jill’s father’s wife gave the couple when they bought their first house, and Pittman’s mother found the chest in the dining room.

“It’s been awesome for entertaining,” says Jill. “I like the elegant look.”

When they entertain, that elegance seeps down to every last detail, including the napkin rings.

Jill’s mom found a set of special silver napkin rings on eBay and gave them to Jill and Pittman when they got married. Fittingly, the napkin rings have “P and J” engraved on them.

“I like to keep pieces that have some memory to them,” says Jill. “We can always find a spot for them.”

Napkin rings also are a tradition in the Morris family. Pittman’s grandmother had silver napkin rings engraved for all the members of their family with their names.

“When we got together, everybody had their place setting. When she downsized, she gave everybody their napkin ring,” he says.

The dining room also features deep blue walls above the chair rail, wainscoting, a bay window and transom windows above the pocket door from the foyer.

Feeling at Home

The home features red oak flooring downstairs, and one of the few changes the Morrises made to the house was to the floors. They installed a hardwood floor in the master bedroom and re-stained the rest of the flooring. In addition, they painted the shiplap cathedral ceiling and beams white.

“Everything was brown when we moved in,” says Jill. “We loved the room, but we wanted to lighten it up.”

The master bedroom also includes a ceiling fan, a bay window that overlooks the backyard, hammered aluminum wall sconces and built-ins on either side of the fireplace with a wood surround.

An upholstered storage bench sits at the foot of the bed, and a chaise lounge in front of the bay window holds a special place in Jill’s heart.

“That was the first piece of furniture I ever bought for myself,” she says.

When they were house hunting during the pandemic, the couple also wanted to find a place with amenities that they could enjoy without having to leave home.

For instance, the upstairs movie room, where they like to watch films and ball games, can provide hours of entertainment. Pittman installed the speakers in the wall and hung the projectors, and they hung their son’s Marvel comic pictures on one wall.

“Jack is a big Marvel fan, but he didn’t want the pictures in his bedroom anymore,” says Pittman. “He still likes them, though.”

Three electric guitars and an acoustic guitar line the floor beneath the comic pictures. Pittman used to play the guitar, and he rebuilt one and painted it red as a pandemic project.

A sliding glass door leads from the movie room to a balcony, which includes a ceiling fan, tongue-and-groove ceiling and mini fridge for drinks.

Outdoor Oasis

The back porch beneath the balcony also has a tongue-and-groove ceiling, along with a brick floor, wicker furniture with blue cushions, ceiling fan, palm trees and three white columns.

Arched windows top the doors to the porch.

Two hanging chaise lounge chairs with a canopy provide seating around the swimming pool, which also features a hot tub with a spillway.

The outdoor kitchen, aka “Pittman’s Pub,” includes a Big Green Egg, granite countertops, two mini fridges – one for adult beverages and one for children’s drinks – dishwasher, smoker, gas grill, cast iron grill and pizza oven.

The tongue-and-groove ceiling and travertine tile floor extends to the connecting covered eating area, which is accented by a stacked stone wood-burning fireplace, TV and white columns atop stacked stone bases.

With all of these amenities and a stream behind their property that provides another place for the Morris children to play, the family has no intention of going anywhere.

“I hope to be here forever,” says Jill. “This is my dream house.”

By Betsy Gilliland

Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Desserts

1 (15-ounce) package lemon cake mix with pudding
2 cups Cool Whip
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 cup powdered sugar

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, Cool Whip, lightly beaten egg, lemon zest and lemon juice. Stir until completely combined (it will be sticky). Place powdered sugar in a separate bowl. Scoop a spoonful of dough and drop into powdered sugar. Roll to thoroughly coat and place on prepared cookie sheet. Repeat. Bake 10-12 minutes or until tops have cracked and they are golden brown along bottom. Remove and let cool on cookie sheet at least 5 minutes before moving to a cooling rack to cool completely. Makes 2 dozen.

Back in the Swing

Sports

Photos courtesy of Toptracer

A new practice facility is making the cut at the former Jones Creek golf course.

There will be a new player in town starting Masters Week. On Monday, April 3, Bond Golf Global will open “The Practice Club at Jones Creek” on the site of the former golf course in Evans.

“The golf course has been closed for five years, and we want to inject some life back into it,” says Andrew Brooks, founder and owner of Aiken-based Bond Golf Global. “We want to create a good community and a family friendly facility that anybody can use. We want to direct people into the game of golf. It’s open to everybody 100 percent.”

Powered by Toptracer, the high-tech facility will feature eight outdoor bays, eight indoor bays, two covered suites, a sitting area to watch sports and a Junior Golf Academy.

Although the clubhouse is not part of the project, The Practice Club will offer food and beverage services as well.

In its second phase, the facility will add a putting green, a chipping green and a practice bunker. Brooks says these areas should be open by the end of June.

“Our vision is to bring back the golf course. We’re looking at what’s required,” he adds. However, he says no timetable has been set for these renovations.

Future amenities also will include club fitting and club repair services.

While some practice facilities are geared toward entry-level golfers, Brooks says, “This will be a next-level facility where people can hit real balls onto a range. It’s a pathway onto the golf course. It’s going to be a special place.”

For more information, call (803) 477-6824 or email bondgolfgobal@gmail.com.