We’re back with the scoop on 15 Summer Weekends! After all, at Adventure Designed we’re all about connecting people with the world around them and that includes you. So, now that it’s safe to travel again we’re here to help you emerge from quarantine and make this summer one to remember. Today, you’ll find out:
How to experience the Grand Canyon without traveling all of the way to Arizona.
While our first of 15 Summer Weekends trip was great for music and festival lovers, this trip is excellent for anyone looking to mix up their outdoor scenery without traveling all the way out West – avid outdoor enthusiasts, off the beaten path explorers, those looking to avoid flying and/or long road trips, parents looking to expose their children to new landscapes, and more. With just a 6-hour drive from Charlotte, you can spend the weekend exploring Providence Canyon State Park (affectionately known as “Little Grand Canyon”) in Southwest Georgia. And, trust us, you’ll think to yourself: “I can’t believe I’m still in Georgia!”
To make planning your weekend getaway super easy, we’ve curated information about Providence Canyon, timing tips to optimize your trip, and best places to stay nearby – you’ll find the scoop below.
First Up: What is Providence Canyon State Park? This natural wonder was formed in the 1800s as a result of poor farming practices which, over time, resulted in what you’ll see today: massive gullies as deep as 150 feet and mineral rich soil with beautiful hues of pink, orange, white, red, and purple. The largest of the massive gullies is “Grandfather Canyon” which is a half-mile long and 300 feet wide. The State Park is just over 1,000 acres and features more than 10 miles of trails plus, for those looking for an off-the-grid experience, the park has 3 pioneer and 6 backcountry campsites.
Besides the name of “Little Grand Canyon,” Providence Canyon State Park bares other similarities to its namesake like an accessible rim trail and more challenging trails that lead from the canyon’s rim to its floor. However, one distinct difference is the canyon’s home to the world’s largest natural collection of a rare azalea, the Plumleaf Azalea. This rare flower is unique to Providence Canyon and blooms during July and August once most azaleas have already lost their color.
In terms of where to stay, you have lots of options and your best choice will be dependent on what type of weekend getaway you want to have.
For an off-the-grid outdoor adventure, book one of the pioneer or backcountry campsites. Both are dog friendly with a 1:00PM check-in and checkout time. Wondering which type you should book? Your selection depends entirely on how off-the-grid you’d like to be. Pioneer sites have a grill, fire ring, 2 picnic tables, and feature parking at the campsite (think drive up camping). Backcountry campsites also feature a fire ring and require a hike in with your gear to reach the campsite.
For something less rustic that still provides a tranquil environment to unplug, you have three great options: two options for immersion in Southern hospitality and historic charm or one great garden retreat.
If you love taking a stroll through time and gravitate towards B&Bs, enjoy a stay at Eufaula House on Barbour. You’ll be just a 30-minute drive away from the State Park and you’ll be within walking distance to historic Downtown Eufaula. For a historic hotel stay, try The Windsor Hotel – it’s been around since 1892, is just a 44-minute drive from the Sate Park, and is centrally located in the heart of downtown Americus, Georgia.
For a stay slightly further away (about 1-hour from the park), relax at The Lodge & Spa at Calloway Gardens. If you plan to time your visit to Providence Canyon State Park with the blooming of the rare Plumleaf Azaleas, take advantage of one of two wonderful Calloway events: the July 4th Weekend Star Spangled Banner Beach Party or their Summer Family Adventure. Personally, for families we love the Summer Family Adventure and National Geographic does too – it’s ranked in their Top 10 Vacations for Family Adventure in all of the US.
If the proximity, landscape, and accommodation options aren’t enticing enough consider this: a trip to experience Providence Canyon State Park is incredibly affordability. For example, entrance to the park is just $5 per day per car compared with $35 per day per car at the Grand Canyon. The surrounding accommodation options are also a bargain which means you can add this trip to your summer line up guilt-free.
One other perk? It’s on the way from Charlotte to the Florida Gulf Coast’s beautiful 30A. So, if you’re headed to one of 30A’s popular destinations this summer (think Alys Beach, Rosemary Beach, Destin, Watercolor, etc.) stop for one night near Providence Canyon State Park to breakup the 9-hour drive and explore something totally different than the white sandy beaches of Florida’s panhandle.
We’ll be back soon with more handpicked destinations to fill 15 incredible summer weekends. Until then, follow us @adventuredesigned for more travel tips and inspiration.
