VALDOSTA — The Valdosta-Lowndes Parks and Recreation Authority is planning a late spring “grand re-opening” for Langdale Park, 3781 North Valdosta Road.

In the meantime, the park is closed to the public, according to a press release from the VLPRA.

The authority will make “critical repairs to the property” during the next several weeks, said George Page, executive director.

The VLPRA is foregoing a definite reopening date because of the extent of work planned, said Jessica Catlett, director of marketing and public relations for the organization.

“That’s going to take some time,” Catlett said.

The VLPRA describes Langdale Park as “178 acres of rustic beauty on the lazy Withlacoochee River.”

The renovation will include both tree and wildlife identification for the park’s oak, poplar, river birch and pine trees.

The grand reopening will feature more than cleared brush and an upgraded road access, Page said. The authority plans to beautify Langdale Park and make it more accessible for families.

The updated Langdale Park will include a host of new activities, such as guided hikes and scavenger hunts, the press release said.

“There are a lot of trails back there,” Catlett said.

The VLPRA will consider adding geocaching sites during the renovation, according to the press release.

Geocaching is an outdoor activity in which participants employ either GPS or other mapping devices to hide and search for containers called “geocaches.”

“We want to create things that are appealing for parents to take their kids and do things.” Catlett said. “It is a quintessential slice of South Georgia life outdoors.”

Jason Stewart is a reporter for the Valdosta Daily Times