Providence Mountains State Recreation Area

Nearby is the ghost town of Providence and the Bonanza King mine. Several rock walls and partial structures remain tucked into the brush - watch for rattlers and cattle! The mine opening is large, reputed to be a dead critter in there! Lots to see and explore in the Mojave National Preserve!

A little known, hidden gem in the middle of nowhere, this 2 hour tour is very much worth with the visit. Our tour guide, Will, is personable and humorous. The pathway to the cavern was just recently built or renovated within a year or so. This place was privately owned and hand-built by a couple who later passed away in the 1980’s then sold off to the State Parks. Lots of cool facts about this place that I’d consider still part of recent history. Pricing: $10 adult, $5 children and $10 parking. Fun facts I learned: this limestone cavern is so solid it withstand earthquakes. A great hideout place in natural disaster. This place deserves more attention and protection. Really worth the drive to pay a visit. A nice walk through living history.

We came to Providence Mountains State Reserve to visit Mitchell Caverns, but having no reservations for the cavern tour and only being able to get on a wait list we arrived a few hours before the tour. After chatting with the very friendly state rangers, we set off on a short hike. The trail was well marked and not strenuous, but the scenery of the desert surrounding and below us was spectacular. We lucked out and got on the cavern tour, but even if we didn't, the many hours drive out here would have been worth it

Our visit focused on Mitchell Caverns, though there is far more in the region to see and understand. This cavern beyond delivers for variety and quality of stunning cave formations. I learned a lot and then learned more when I annotated my photos later. Bring a camera able to take good photos without a flash; I had a field day in here with my Pixel 8 Pro. The docent William was enthusiastic and well-prepared and the tour was so informative. My only caveat is, the park service seems to have an extreme fear of visitors leaving debris behind in the caverns and so does not allow water bottles or any personal belongings (purses, backpack) to be brought into the caverns. If an individual needs medication for conditions like migraine, which I do, and becomes ill during the tour (which I did) ther

Beautiful spot for tent camping! We stayed at camp 3. Camps 4 & 5 are also spacious. Campground is located next to the Mitchell Caverns. It's very convenient if you're visiting the caves. Bathrooms are clean. Leave no trace. Pack it in pack it out!