Photo Chere Simmons
Only about five hours away from South County, near Lumpkin, Georgia, is a sight to see. If you can’t make it to the Grand Canyon this year, do the next best thing and visit Georgia’s ‘Little Grand Canyon’ known as Providence Canyon State Recreational Area. Situated near the town of Lumpkin, this park is near the Alabama line in southwest Georgia. Next to the Canyon is Florence Marina State Park which has great accommodations at a reasonable price.
The canyon is not a natural phenomena, it is the result of years of poor farming practices in the 1800s. The rare Plumleaf Azalea grows only in this region and blooms during July and August when most azaleas have lost their color. The canyon’s soils which range from pink, orange, red and purple hues make a beautiful natural painting at this quiet park.
Visitors can enjoy views of the canyons from the rim trail or hikers have a choice of a three or seven mile canyon bottom trail. Backpackers can stay overnight along the backcountry trail which highlights portions of the canyon and winds through mixed forest.
The park is located seven miles west of Lumpkin on Ga. Hwy. 39C. The park area is 1,003 acres with two picnic shelters, two pioneer campsites, and six backcountry campsites for rent.
Visit www.gastateparks.org to rent a cottage, shelter or campsite at either location. And when you’ve built up a hunger, visit Snooky’s Down Home Restaurant at 223 Main Street, or 4-Way BBQ at 401 Broad Street, Lumpkin. You’ll be glad you did.
