COLUMBIA, S.C. - The head of state parks in South Carolina is unsure how well privatizing the operations of cabins and campgrounds would work, and some are concerned it might raise rates.

But South Carolina would not be the first state to privatize accommodations. Georgia will turn over its central reservation system to a private company in the coming weeks and expects major savings and improvements.

In Gov. Mark Sanford's budget plan released earlier this week, one proposal calls for saving $1.4 million by privatizing the operation of the cabins, campgrounds, restaurants and golf courses now run by the State Park Service. The state operates 155 cabins, 80 motel rooms, 3,000 campsites, two 18-hole golf courses and one restaurant at state parks.

The $1.4 million includes nearly $700,000 generated by turning over the operation of the lodge and golf course at Hickory Knob State Resort Park in McCormick to a private company. Also, about $300,000 could be generated each year by letting a private vendor run the campground at Myrtle Beach State Park.

Van Stickles, director of the State Park Service, said the division of the state Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism isn't sure how well that could work, but he is considering all options.

The park service plans to convert to a central reservation system for its cabins and campgrounds, Stickles said. However, that operation is expected to be run by state employees. Currently, visitors call the park they want to visit directly for reservations.

It won't be like that in Georgia for long.

Paul Burkhalter, who is directing the change in Georgia, said that state will turn over its central reservation system after a bid is approved.

"I'm trying to think of a minus, and I can't come up with one," Burkhalter said.

The private company will keep the reservation lines open later on weeknights and weekends, and will set up an online reservation system. The state agency also will reduce its staff by about 20 workers.

The state will collect just as much for each night in a cabin. Visitors will have to pay a little more - the exact figures haven't been set - as a handling fee that goes to the private reservation company.

That increased plan worries some in South Carolina that don't want rates to rise.

Janette Jackson of Easley often stays in state park campgrounds or cabins. She is not against privatization, but she appreciates the low prices.

"I think they're doing a real good job now," Jackson said. "I'm pretty happy except it's hard to get the cabins because they all are reserved more than a year ahead of time."

Stickles said one of the efficiencies the agency is considering would be boosting prices at some of the most popular parks, much as the private sector would.