Guilford County’s Southwest Park Marina at 6309 Southwest Park Dr. in Greensboro is gearing up to open the 2022 season on Wednesday, March 2 at 8 a.m.

That comes as good news to the users who see the marina close every winter in order for it to be in compliance with the Piedmont Triad Regional Water Authority’s regulations regarding the lake.

Once the marina opens, boaters, fishers and other water lovers can enjoy miles of open water on the Randleman Regional Reservoirs.

This year, starting on March 2, the marina will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday for those who enjoy water activities. It will be available for launching boats and other personal water vehicles.

In April, the park will extend those hours and people will be able to visit the marina from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Over the last two years, Guilford County has made its Parks Department a stand-alone department and put a lot of effort into beautifying, upgrading and revamping parks across the county.  Those who haven’t visited the parks in recent years should check the county’s park’s website at https://www.guilfordcountync.gov/our-county/county-parks to see what new attractions and events are available for enjoyment – often at no cost.

Somethings do cost, however.  Southwest Park has kayaks and lightweight aluminum boats for rent. Kayaks won’t be available for rent until April 1 “due to air temperature and water temperature requirements,” according to county officials.

 For now, thanks to COVID-19, guests must bring their own personal life-saving devices. Guests should also keep in mind that swimming, water skiing, jet skis, bank fishing, and gasoline motors are strictly prohibited.

Also, those fishing are “strongly encouraged to catch and release.”

 Snacks, drinks, and fishing tackle are all available for purchase at Southwest Park.

The popular park is 513-acres owned and operated by Guilford County, and, in addition to the marina, it offers a wide variety of outdoor experiences like hiking trails, a dog park, picnic shelters, playgrounds and a whole lot of open space.

For more information about Southwest Park and the marina, call 336-641-2050 or visit the website.