When companies hold a work retreat at George T. Bagby State Park and Lodge, business issues are discussed intently in the lodge's spacious meeting rooms with scenic views. Or on the state park's 18-hole golf course. Or on the lighted tennis courts. Or on a fishing boat in the middle of the largest southwest lake in the state.

George T. Bagby State Park and Lodge in Fort Gaines has become a popular spot for company retreats, management meetings and team trainings. The park covers more than 700 acres of woodland in picturesque southwest Georgia. Hiking trails that meander through the cool, quiet forest eventually end at 48,000-acre Lake Walter F. George that provides a natural border between Georgia and Alabama.

Blending business with relaxation requires the right combination of indoor and outdoor ingredients. The 60-room lodge features a modern conference center with wireless Internet service, audio-visual equipment and on-site, full-service catering. The expansive 3,867-square-foot space can host meetings, receptions and banquets for groups as large as 200.

The lodge offers the services of a conference coordinator, who oversees all event plans with meticulous attention to detail, allowing the group to focus solely on its meeting experience. The coordinator will arrange every meal, from plated dinners and buffets to banquets and receptions. Special requests in the form of boxed lunches, restricted diets or budget savers are managed with ease. Grab a boxed lunch and take the group outside for a picnic. Or set up a private party at the lodge's restaurant, the Pilot House Grille, and enjoy an a la carte dinner while watching a spectacular sunset over the lake.

After a day’s work, one activity is especially popular among groups who choose the Bagby State Park and Lodge is a round of golf on the 18-hole Meadow Links Golf Course. Designed by famed golf course architect, Willard Byrd, the course takes golfers through the gently rolling countryside, each hole giving its own breathtaking view of the surrounding woodlands.

Step outside of the lodge or off the golf course and into the George T. Bagby State Park, where boundless recreational opportunities await. So if groups decide, they can take a break with a game of tennis or beach volleyball. Breathe in the fresh pine-scented air and enjoy the tranquility of a trail hike through the forest. Cool off in the swimming pool or bask in the sun on the lake's beach. Or teams can take it on the water. The beautiful Lake Walter F. George, also called Lake Eufala on the Alabama side, boasts 640-miles of shoreline and plenty of sport fishing. No matter the choice, the vast expanse of nature refreshes and inspires groups seeking an escape from the stale air of a confining office.

For more information on George T. Bagby State Park and Lodge meeting facilities or reservations, please contact the Regional Group Sales office at (770) 975-4291 or visit www.naturallybusiness.com.

About Georgia State Park Lodges
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources operates seven state lodge parks across Georgia with meeting and banquet facilities, comfortable accommodations and affordable rates year-round. The state park lodges offer such diverse recreational activities as watersports, golf, fishing, hiking and nature trails. For more information on lodge meeting facilities or reservations, please contact the Regional Group Sales office at (770) 975-4291 or visit www.naturallybusiness.com.

Editor’s Notes:

Key Web Address: www.NaturallyBusiness.com

Photography: High-resolution images of George T. Bagby State Park and Lodge are available by request.