REED BINGHAM STATE PARK — Heavy rains during the weekend have forced Reed Bingham State Park officials to temporarily close the lake.

Even with the closure, a Christmas program scheduled for Saturday is still being planned on schedule.

Park Manager Chet Powell said water levels caused by rain Friday, Saturday and into Sunday have caused the park’s lake to overflow its banks. The park measured six inches of rain alone to go with other rainwater flowing in from other parts of the Little River, which runs into the lake.

Because of the amount of water that continued to rise Monday morning, Powell said the lake and all boat docks from Roundtree Bridge Road were being closed.

He advised anyone who planned on bringing a boat to the lake to call the park at (229) 896-3551 first to see if it has been reopened.

Even with the high water levels, Powell said “A Christmas With Friends” celebration at the park is still scheduled to take place Saturday. There is currently a record number of boats signed up to take part in the Parade of Boats on the lake, which begins at 7:30 p.m.

The celebration will begin at 7 p.m. at the beach pavilion with music and s’mores, Powell said. Santa will visit the pavilion by boat following the Parade of Boats, and hot chocolate, coffee, popcorn and sweets will be available for purchase. Visitors are required to purchase a $3 parking pass for each vehicle to attend.

For more information, call Reed Bingham State Park at (229) 896-3551.