Pendleton King Park

Natural Landscape

Nestled in the heart of Augusta, Georgia, Pendleton King Park spans a generous 64 acres of diverse terrain. Originally gifted by the King family, this public green space was designated as a bird sanctuary - a purpose that remains evident today.

The park features a mix of pine forests, rolling sand ridges, and serene marshes. These varied habitats create perfect homes for a wide range of bird species and other wildlife. What's particularly notable about this park is its surprising topography - you'll find elevation changes of over 100 feet as you explore, giving it a dynamic feel unlike many flat urban parks.

Flora and Gardens

These elevation shifts create micro-environments that support an impressive variety of plant life. From towering trees to delicate native flowers, there's always something in bloom. The park features several thoughtfully designed garden spaces, including lovely camellia gardens, a peaceful hydrangea garden, and an interactive sensory garden (also called the Touch and Smell Garden) that's excellent for engaging all your senses.

Spring is particularly notable when azaleas and other flowering plants burst into color. If you're curious about identifying trees, take a stroll along the tree-labeled trail that helps you get to know the park's leafy residents.

Water Features

At the heart of the park sits Lake Elizabeth, a charming spring-fed lake named after Pendleton King's mother. It's home to a lively community of ducks, geese, and turtles that often steal the show. You can relax at one of the partially fenced seating areas around the lake and watch the wildlife go about their day. The park also contains important wetland areas fed by natural springs - these same springs actually contributed to Augusta's early drinking water supply back in the day.

There's also a small waterfall that adds a gentle soundtrack to your visit, creating a peaceful atmosphere well-suited for unwinding.

Recreational Amenities

If you're looking for some active fun, the park's 18-hole disc golf course winds through both open meadows and shaded woods. New to disc golf? The front nine holes are relatively open and forgiving for beginners. Ready for a challenge? The back nine will test your skills as you navigate through the trees. Thoughtful touches like clear lanes and benches with hooks for disc golf bags show that this course was designed with players in mind.

For families, there are playgrounds complete with swings and jungle gyms that keep the little ones entertained. The park also maintains tennis courts and pickleball courts for those looking to get a game in. History buffs and kids alike are drawn to the historic M48 Patton tank - a remnant from Fort Gordon training exercises that now acts as both a climbing attraction for children and a point of interest for military history enthusiasts.

Dog-Friendly Areas

Your four-legged friends are welcome here too! Near the entrance, you'll come across a well-maintained dog park with separate fenced areas for small and large dogs. The space includes agility equipment and offers plenty of clean, shaded areas for dogs to play off-leash. When exploring the rest of the park, dogs are welcome on the trails as long as they're leashed.

Walking Trails

The network of walking trails meanders through the park's diverse landscapes, offering routes for every fitness level. Most paths are paved and shaded by a canopy of trees, making them accessible year-round and for visitors of all mobility levels. For those seeking more of a workout, there's a marked cross-country trail that provides a more challenging terrain.

Community Spaces

Pendleton King Park truly functions as Augusta's living room - a place where the community comes together. You'll discover several rentable spaces including the Franke Pavilion, a covered picnic shelter, and garden areas like the Hydrangea Garden and Blue Garden that make perfect backdrops for events.

Across the park, picnic tables and benches invite you to sit for a while, whether you're enjoying lunch or simply taking in the scenery. The park regularly hosts community events from plant sales to guided meditation sessions, creating opportunities for neighbors to connect with each other and with nature.