Unicoi State Park was forced to close on Thanksgiving due to a problem with its water supply.
The White County-based park refunded those who paid in advance for holiday reservations.
“Due to an unforeseen main water supply issue out of our control, we are having to shut down for the health and safety of our guests due to no water. All of those who paid for Thanksgiving reservations are being refunded. We apologize for any inconvenience to all involved,” the park said in a social media post.
The closure left many holiday travelers frustrated, looking last-minute for a place to stay.
“This was a major disappointment!” said Michelle Robenhymer Valentino of Florida. She said her family was driving in from Florida and “headed straight to the lodge only to be told that it was cancelled. I think things could have been handled differently.”
“I was devastated when we got the call,” said Mariska Lenae Ranye, whose family planned their trip to coincide with Friday night’s Helen tree lighting.
The park did not specify what caused the problem. It remains unclear if or when it will be resolved. Coral Hospitality, the management company that runs Unicoi, did not immediately respond to Now Habersham’s request for comment.
Unicoi State Park is a 1,050-acre state park with a lake located northeast of Helen. It is a popular tourist destination that offers recreational activities, camping, lodging, and dining.
