Discovering Gastonia’s Backyard Treasures

Kings Pinnacle at Crowders Mountain State ParkLarge rock outcrop the top of a cliff looking down on area at base of the mountain — The View from Kings Pinnacle on Crowders Mountain State Park Pinnacle Trail just outside Gastonia, NC.

Nestled just outside of the bustling city of Charlotte, Gastonia, North Carolina is one of the most popular spots for people moving to the area to settle. And why not? With urban delights like shopping, concerts, art galleries, and sports just a stone’s throw away, Gastonia beckons those who want the urban experience but with suburban peace and quite. But what so many overlook is that Gastonia is also a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. And it truly is the call of the wild that defines the spirit of Gastonia. And here at Carolina Odyssey, we’re not about the usual city fanfare. We’re here to guide you through the exhilarating outdoor adventures that await right in your own backyard.

Crowder’s Mountain State Park: A Stone’s Throw Adventure

Crowder’s Mountain State Park is the local go-to for an outdoor escape. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or a tranquil retreat, this park has it all.

rock cliff with earthen stairs to the left leading up warning sign on right saying serious injuries and deaths have occurred beyond this point — Getting Close to the top of the Pinnacle. Near the end of the Pinnacle Trail, stone steps will inch you closer to the summit.

The Climber’s Haven

For the daring souls, the Boulders Access located at the southernmost parking lot offers a bouldering challenge that will test your limits. Embrace the thrill of climbing without ropes and anchors along the bolder fields. If you’re new to bouldering, you can test yourself here where you’re low to the ground before you tackle sheer cliffs further west. And if you’re an old pro, you can hone your skills in the great outdoors without a long drive.

The Pinnacle of Hikes

pine trees rock outcroppings and a small path at the top of Pinnacle Mountain — The Vary of Pinnacle Mountain on a clear day you can even see the Charlotte Skyline.

If you’re after a vigorous hike with rewarding views, the Sparrow Springs Access near the visitor center is your gateway. The 2-mile trail to King’s Pinnacle is strenuous but worth every step. Conquer the boulders, and you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking panorama, including the distant Charlotte skyline on clear days.

A Peaceful Day at the Park

small lake with wooden fishing pier — The lake at Crowder’s Mountain State Park. A great picnic spot just a short drive from Gastonia.

Not every day calls for a challenge. For those moments, the park lake offers serenity. Circle the lake on an easy 0.8-mile nature trail, indulge in bird watching, or enjoy a leisurely fishing session. With picnic tables and shelters aplenty, relaxation is guaranteed.

A Weekend Wilderness Camping Trip

Dirt trail leading up a hill along the Pinnacle Trail at Crowders Mountain — *Don’t let the easy start to some of the trails fool you…they become much more challenging about half way in, but there are plenty of benches where you can catch your breath.*

For the weekend warriors, Crowder’s Mountain boasts primitive backcountry camping sites, but you’ll have to venture at least a mile into the wilderness. And if you’re ready for a real adventure, pack your gear and hike the Ridgeline Trail which runs almost the entire length of the park. At it’s end you’ll not only find yourself in a different state park but crossing into a different state as well.

Kings Mountain State Park: Trails, Tales, and Tails

water flowing over old dam on left then splinting around a small island before reconnecting and flowing under bridge — The area behind the dam would be a great place for a picnic, but bring a blanket because there aren’t any tables.

Connected to Crowders Mountain via the Ridgeline Trail, Kings Mountain State Park just across the state line into South Carolina is an adventure in itself. And it doesn’t matter if you hike in or drive in.

Trails for All

With 20 miles of trails, the park caters to hikers of all levels. Backcountry campsites dot the landscape, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature without retreating to base camp each night.

Three horses and a nearby donkey graze in a partially wooded field with a rustic wooden fence on the left of the photo. — *Unlike most area parks and camping areas, Horses are not only welcome at Kings Mountain State Park near Gastonia, but special accommodations are made for campers with horses.*

Equestrian Dreams

Horse enthusiasts rejoice! Kings Mountain State Park offers equestrian campsites with individual corrals, and most trails welcome your four-legged companions.

This image captures a tranquil forest setting with tall trees that have lush green foliage. Sunlight filters through the leaves casting dappled light on the ground below. A wooden picnic table is prominently placed in the foreground, offering a place for visitors to sit and enjoy the natural surroundings. The ground is covered with a mix of grass and bare soil, indicative of a well-used area. In the background, there’s a sturdy wooden fence adding to the rustic charm of this outdoor space. The overall mood conveyed by this image is one of calmness and connection with nature. — *In addition to RV campsites in the main camp ground, backcountry sites throughout the trail system, Kings Mountain State Park offers Equestrian Campsites with individual corrals for your horses.*

Lakeside Leisure

small lake surrounded by woods with concrete swimming platform — Lake Crawford – the Civilian Conservation Corps built swimming platform still sits in the lake, but the area hasn’t been used for swimming for over 20 years.

Two park lakes provide the perfect setting for fishing or kayaking. With picnic tables and a shelter, it’s an ideal spot for a family day out.

Step Back in Time

dirt road with wooden building on and fence on left trees and grass on right — Step back in local history at the Kings Mountain Living History Farm

The Living History Farm at Kings Mountain State park is a portal to the past. Explore historic buildings and witness the life of yeoman farmers of old, with scheduled learning events and a chance to meet the resident horses.

old reproduction buildings in green grass with blue skys above — Cotton Gin at the Kings Mountain Living History Farm with other farm buildings in the background.

Kings Mountain National Military Park: Where History Echoes

90 foot white obelisk at the top of a gentle hill surrounded by trees with a paved path and green grass — United States Monument (1909) at Kings Mountain National Military Park

The Kings Mountain National Military Park stands as a testament to a pivotal Revolutionary War battle where on October 7, 1780 a hastily formed army of 900 Patriots finished a 330 mile journey to defeat Major Patrick Ferguson and his Loyalist forces who were entrenched st the top of Kings Mountain. The battle only lasted for 65 minutes but has become a legend.

paved trail through a wooded area leading by information kiosk - the only legible text is "drive the enemy" — The Battlefield Trail at Kings Mountain is paved and easy to walk, although it’s steep in areas.

Follow in the footsteps of the so called Overmountain Men on the Battlefield Trail, a 1.5 mile loop that will take you from the approach to the mountain, the site of the first shots fired, to the point where Patrick Ferguson fell, and finally to his grave. Interpretive signs and multiple monuments, some over 100 years old, tell the story of the battle along the way, and you can call a number on your phone to get even more of the story.

gravestone reads To the memory of Col. Patrick Ferguson Seventy-First regiment. Highland light Infantry. Born in Aberdeenshire. Scotland in 1744. Killed October 7, 1780 in action at King's Mountain while in command of the British Troops. A soldier of military distinction and Honor. This memorial is from the citizens of The United States of America in token of their appreciation of the bonds of friendship and peace between them and the citizens of the British empire Erected October 7, 1930 — Major Patrick Ferguson’s Grave

Though recreational facilities are scarce due to the proximity of the state park, the visitor center is a treasure trove of information about the battle and its significance in America’s fight for independence.

Your Adventure Awaits

Most people stop here at Kings Pinnacle, but keep going. After you catch your breath follow the path to the very top of the mountain for the best views.

Gastonia is more than a gateway to urban pleasures; it’s a launchpad to the great outdoors. From mountain peaks to historical feats, adventure is just around the corner. So, why wait? Uncover the outdoor adventures that lie in Gastonia’s backyard today!