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By Norgie Hester

Bladen County is known as one of the poorer counties of North Carolina. Well that ain’t true in a three mile radius around White Lake. The population has grown, and with this growth, progress is at a maximum. Within that radius there are four businesses that attract thousands of visitors to Bladen County.

A few years back Goldston’s Beach brought in new owners, some of which were members of the family who owned Goldston’s Beach from the get-go. They immediately started changing things. There are now free concerts provided, a sports bar, water park, remodeled motels and restaurants, Charlie Daniels Gallery and much more.

According to Jake Womble, president and owner, “Goldston’s Beach is a staple at White Lake and has offered amenities to local and tourist alike for over 100 years. The property has expanded over the years and continues to have a family oriented atmosphere. In recent years the property has been fully renovated and stays open to the public year round. We welcome thousands of tourists each year for traditional family vacations and also welcome customers who seek to enjoy the lake and our amenities for the day. The property is within The Grand Regal Resort offering restaurant, campgrounds, motels, cottages, park models, arcade gaming, splash pad water features, white sandy beaches, recreational activities and hosts anything from weddings, corporate events, birthday parties, concerts, family reunions, to festivals. We strive to make everyone’s stay here an enjoyable experience and look forward to seeing everyone at beautiful White Lake.”

White Lake Water Park was remodeled this year with everything refurbished and a lot of new water fun spots added. They host hundreds of school outings yearly.

Located across from Vineyard Golf At White Lake is a new mobile home park. Sandy Ridge Mobile Home Park sits on 600 acres and is open year around.

A few years back the Augustine family from New Jersey bought what was known as White Lake Golf Course. They immediately started renovation of the entire course. The Augustines were big farmers, especially in the blueberry business in Bladen County. The course is now owned by Patricia Augustine and son Billy. They average approximately 100 players a day and around 40 tournaments a year. One of the most popular events is The Thundering Herd played weekly in warm weather.

The four businesses mentioned here have set a model that shows Bladen County ain’t as poor as most people think it is.