Alabama State Parks announced Tuesday that it has entered into a long-term partnership with Guest Services Inc. to manage lodging and hospitality operations at Lake Guntersville and Cheaha state parks. Guest Services is a hospitality management company that operates within state and national park systems across the country.
The 10-year concession agreement is part of an ongoing effort by Alabama State Parks to strengthen guest services, improve operational efficiency and enhance the visitor experience at two of the state’s premier park destinations, the division said in a news release.
Under the agreement, Guest Services will manage lodge operations, cabins, chalets, housekeeping, food and beverage services, retail operations, event management, reservations and guest services at both parks. At Cheaha State Park, the company will also manage operations at Bald Rock Lodge and assist state parks staff as they prepare to open the park’s new lodge, which is under construction and expected to open later this summer.
“This partnership is about continuing to improve the guest experience while ensuring our parks remain sustainable and competitive destinations for visitors from across Alabama and beyond,” Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Commissioner Chris Blankenship said. “Guest Services brings decades of hospitality experience within public park systems, and we believe this collaboration will help us deliver a higher level of consistency, service and operational excellence for our guests.”
Alabama State Parks selected Guest Services through a competitive bidding process that attracted multiple proposals from hospitality operators nationwide. State parks leadership said the company stood out because of its track record operating within public lands and park environments while maintaining customer service standards and responsible property management.
Guest Services currently operates hospitality destinations within national and state parks, including Mount Rainier and Everglades national parks, Bear Mountain State Park and more than 18 Florida state parks, including Wakulla Springs and Weeki Wachee Springs state parks.
“Our goal is to ensure Alabama State Parks continues evolving to meet the expectations of today’s guests while preserving the experiences that make our parks special,” Matthew Capps, director of Alabama State Parks, said. “We believe this partnership positions Lake Guntersville and Cheaha state parks for long-term success and continued growth.”
Alabama State Parks will continue to own and oversee all park properties, and the agency will manage campgrounds, recreational operations and natural resources at both parks. State parks staff will continue working alongside Guest Services to ensure the parks remain accessible, family-friendly destinations.
The partnership also allows Alabama State Parks to focus on long-term improvements and investments at both locations. At Lake Guntersville State Park, the state and Guest Services are working together to identify opportunities for upgrades and operational improvements within the lodge and supporting facilities. At Cheaha State Park, the partnership will support the opening and long-term operation of the park’s new lodge facility, located at Alabama’s highest point, state officials said.
“We are honored to partner with Alabama State Parks and excited to bring our hospitality experience to Alabama for the first time,” Laura Sherman, vice president of hospitality for Guest Services, said. “These parks are extraordinary destinations with strong leadership, dedicated staff and incredible natural resources. We look forward to working alongside Alabama State Parks to create exceptional guest experiences while preserving the character and accessibility that make these parks so special.”
