Woodlake celebrates new future with open house

The Woodlake Country Club near Vass officially announced its grand reopening, highlighted by the upcoming debut of The Maples Grill on June 11 and a recent open house on May 30. Woodlake has been described as “the best kept secret of the North Carolina Sandhills for more than 54 years” and has been continuously upgrading its amenities, including views of a 1,200-acre private lake, a historic clubhouse, and two championship golf courses off Highway 690.

These milestones — a soft reopening, grand reopening, and debut of The Maples Grill — have been in the works for years and were publicly announced in the fall of 2023. The grand reopening marks a new era of “convenience and luxury” for the community, showcasing a variety of premier amenities.

“We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you who have supported [our] redevelopment efforts in so many meaningful ways,” said Atlantic National Capital on Woodlake’s website. “Your unwavering support and belief in our vision have been the driving force behind our progress and success.”

Members can now enjoy the 18-hole Maples Golf Course, a modern driving range, and The Maples Grill, which allows guests to “indulge in delicious cuisine and outdoor dining with stunning views.”

Additionally, the club also offers five event spaces, a pool, and a busy calendar of social activities to bring the community together.

The recent open house event invited everyone to explore the club’s offerings before the official grand reopening. “With the grand opening of Woodlake Country Club, we are embarking on a new chapter of growth and success,” declared Atlantic National Capital. “Together, we are ensuring that Woodlake will continue to thrive, leaving behind the challenges of the past and embracing a future filled with promise and prosperity.”

In recent years, Woodlake faced several challenges, including financial issues under previous management and a dam breach during Hurricane Matthew, which left the lake empty since 2016.

In 2019, longtime property owner Keith Allison and his family stepped in to help restore the community that they loved. In March 2021, Allison and his family company, Atlantic National Capital, secured the property, free of liens, and began efforts to repair the dam and restore the lake.

Looking ahead, the club is planning to develop a marina, a project aimed at further improving the community and restoring the lake. The marina will include docks and storage for boats and trailers, with design plans in the works. Club members will soon be able to reserve spaces as these plans take shape. This marina project is part of a larger master plan being developed with a “renowned architectural firm,” expected to be completed by late summer 2024.

“To those who have joined the Club under our soft opening, your commitment is especially vital,” wrote Atlantic National Capital. “Your participation and enthusiasm are the lifeblood that will sustain our continued development and growth within the community. Your belief in our mission has been an incredible encouragement, and we are profoundly grateful for your support.”

~Written by Sandhills Sentinel Assistant Editor Abegail Murphy. 

Photo via Woodlake Country Club.

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