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Known as “Little Georgia”, Providence Canyon is a modern-day example of what happens when mankind attempts to change the land they live on. Thanks to years of poor agricultural practices, as well as erosion from the Coastal Plains, massive gullies as deep as 150 feet can be found all throughout the park. While this lack of foresight has irrevocably changed the land, it has also created some of the most beautiful photo opportunities in the State.
As a result of the geographic changes, the canyon’s soil proudly showcase its scars, colored in vibrant hues of pink, orange, red, yellow, and purple. This makes the area a prime destination spot for Photographers and scenic enthusiasts. Moreover, the area is home to the Plumleaf Azalea, a rare type of wildflower that blooms in late July/early August, when most other Azaleas have already started to wain in vibrance.
When it comes to recreation, there’s a wide range of outdoor activities to partake in. Thanks to the local geography, Providence Canyon is perfect for hiking, fishing, mountain biking, climbing, and so much more. One of the more interesting activities to consider is the Canyon Climber Club. This club challenges participants to brave three local features that showcase extreme outdoor adventure. Brave the depths of the Canyon, overcome the staircase of Cloudland Canyon, and trek across the swinging bridge of Tallulah Gorge. Those who complete all three challenges win extreme bragging rights, plus a sweet certificate to show off.
Camping here is difficult, simply because there aren't many sites available. There are 3 pioneer-style campsites with regular amenities, and 6 backcountry campsites which require you to be okay with a little less comfort. While there is a visitors center, a concession stand, and restrooms available, not every campsite is close by. Therefore, it’s important to be sure you plan your trip in advance to meet your needs and circumstances. Pioneer campsites (close to bathrooms and the visitor center) range from $40-$80 a night, while the backcountry options start at just $10/night.
Did the White Blaze Loop -
***The initial checkpoint to get a pass does not accept card, it’s cash only - but you can drive to the visitors center (which is the trail head anyway) and buy a parking pass with card there.
***If you are short on time, doing the White Loop and seeing Canyons 4 and 5 is what I would recommend. They were the most grand in my opinion. Photos included of Canyons 4 and 5.
***There are steep parts of this hike, so be aware of that. Bring water. Be physically able to climb back UP whatever you choose to go down. We saw some people struggling to get back up from the canyon bottom, and especially with the park gates closing at 6pm just be aware of time to get back up.
This is not the Grand Canyon but it is an interesting place and a different and nice hiking experience. You walk down from the visitors center to a nearly dry stream bed and then you have options to hike to different parts of the canyon. You'll like it. Despite some down and uphill parts this is not a hard hike for most people.
Beautiful area for short day hiking. There are nine canyons to visit that are full of red, purple, pink, and orange sandy hues. The trail into the canyons begins at the visitor center. There are approximately 2 miles of trails in the canyons and an additional 2 miles to take the white trail loop along the rim (which is connected to the canyon trails). However, I ended up walking around 6 miles in my exploration of the canyons and the white loop trail. Plan to visit for a couple of hours so that you can see all of the canyons from below and above. Wear waterproof shoes or hiking boots. I visited in January and there was no way to avoid walking in sandy water. The park was significantly busier than I expected. The trails were full of people and the parking lot near the visitors center was completely full. Lastly, the price for parking is $5 and you can pay cash at the entrance or with card at the visitor’s center.
Loved it. This Georgia state park was such an unexpected surprise. Unusual rock formations in beautiful colors throughout this small gorge. Trails are rough and bottom is wet so wear appropriate shoes. Breathtaking views. Loved it.
We spent 2 nights at Pioneer campsite #2. Since it was just myself and my husband we had the option of primitive camping or pioneer site 1 or 2.
In my opinion site 2 was the best of our options. It was 20 degrees one night and car vs primitive camping was so much better for the gear we have. Site 2 is the last site on the little side road that contains sites 1&2 and is on a plateau surrounded by forest.
The visitor center and the park at large is well maintained with extremely friendly staff. Visiting in the winter gave us the opportunity to enjoy hiking and exploring without concern for a lot of crowds.
My advice for the pioneer sites is to be aware that there's absolutely no water. I'm used to some sort of water for dishes and this is really closer to primitive camping. Second, the drop toilet smells extremely bad. I've used plenty of these and this one is in my top 2 of worst smelling! Thank God it was just me and my husband because I couldn't close the door! Aside from this it was a wonderful trip and well worth the visit.
