State: Southern California
Short Name: Providence Mountains SRA
Phone: 760-928-2586
Open: Seasonal
Number of Sites: 6
Camp URL: http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=615
Full Hook: Yes
Free: No
About: Providence Mountains State Recreation Area is located on the east side of the Providence Mountain range and has dramatic views of the surrounding Mojave Desert. The lower elevations feature many varieties of cactus and yucca in a creosote scrub habitat. The bright red rhyolite in the higher elevations are home to bighorn sheep and pinyon pines.The park’s visitor center is located in the historic home of Jack and Ida Mitchell, who ran a resort here from 1934 through 1954.
Directions: The park is located in the eastern Mojave Desert off of Interstate 40, 56 miles west of Needles, 116 miles east of Barstow, and 16 miles northwest of the Essex Road exit. Located at an elevation of 4,300 feet, the park is surrounded by one of the newest National Parks, Mojave National Preserve.
*Caution: Be prepared to travel in the desert! The nearest fuel station to the park is 24 miles away in Fenner. Carry water in your vehicle in case of an unexpected situation. Food is not available at the park, so plan ahead for meals.
