North Carolina State Parks

Crowders Mountain

522 Park Office Lane, Kings Mountain, NC 28086 · (704) 853-5375 · E-mail

Raptors soar gracefully in the wind; vegetation reaches to the sky; sheer vertical cliffs drop 150 feet. Enjoy the spectacle from a front-row seat. High atop Crowders Mountain, the highest point in Gaston County, views stretch for more than 20 miles.

For a closer view of nature's marvels, walk the park's many miles of trails. The gently rolling landscape of the North Carolina Piedmont offers a variety of terrain. Dip into the valleys; cross the foothills; climb to the peaks. Quiet woods, trickling streams and melodious birds await. These spectacular surroundings, like the unique habitats in many other state parks, would not exist were it not for the efforts of concerned citizens dedicated to protecting our environment from continued threats by man. Visit this mountain treasure.

Camping

When you've finished exploring for the day, settle in for a long night's sleep. Located approximately one mile from the park office are secluded areas for camping — areas so private there's often not another person in sight. Both campgrounds are reached by trail and all supplies must be packed to the campsites. Campers must register at the park office.

A one-mile trail leads to the forested camping area where each campsite has a grill and tent pad. Drinking water and pit toilets are provided. A modest fee is charged and campsites are available on a first-come basis.

Larger groups will enjoy fellowship in the group camping area. Each of the six group sites will accommodate up to 15 people. Camping areas include a fire circle for cooking and campfire tales. Pit toilets and water are located nearby. Advance reservations are required and a modest fee is charged.

Hiking

The beauty and diversity of Crowders Mountain State Park are best appreciated on its miles of hiking trails. Hiking trails lined with wildflowers and mountain laurel lead along the ridges and to the summits of Crowders Mountain and Kings Pinnacle. Other trails are easy promenades through pastoral surroundings. Circle the lake on a gravel path or view aquatic plants and animals along a narrow creek. Bring a pair of binoculars and do some bird watching or tote a camera and capture the beauty of wildflowers in bloom.

Picnicking

The shade of large trees provides a spot for outdoor dining in a beautiful wooded area. Scattered throughout the picnic area are 28 tables and eight grills. Drinking water and restrooms are located nearby. Two large shelters with tables and grills are available for group picnics. Reservations are suggested to be certain they are available. Use of the shelters is free of charge and on a first-come, first-served basis unless reservations are requested.

Rock climbing

Experienced climbers will enjoy the challenges of Crowders Mountain. Climbing is permitted in designated areas only. Pitons, bolts or similar devices that may damage cliff faces are not permitted. Further information may be obtained at the park office.

All climbers must register with the park by completing a climbing and rappelling registration and activity permit which is available at the park office. There is no fee for this permit. Prior to activity, a copy of the permit must be deposited in a registration box or given to a park ranger. An additional copy is provided for participants and must be held in their possession while engaged in climbing or rappelling.

Participants are responsible for their own personal safety, including securing proper training and equipment, and adhering to safe practices. Basic rock climbing safety equipment and techniques must be used at all time.

The following state park climbing regulations apply at all times:

• All climbers must register with the park staff and must keep in their possession a valid rock climbing and rappelling permit.
• NC state parks do not install or maintain any climbing route or fixed anchors. New routes are not permitted.
• Climbers climb at their own risk and are responsible for obtaining proper equipment and training. Unroped climbing is discouraged.
• Route selection and the decision to rely on any fixed anchors are the climber's responsibility.
• Climbing activities are permitted in designated areas only and must coincide with the park's posted hours of operation.
• All accidents and injuries must be reported to park staff.

Note: All climbers and rappellers must schedule their activity in order to leave the park by the posted closing hour.

Water sports

Watch a long, lazy afternoon slip away while enjoying the park's wooded lake. Located near the park office and picnic ground, the nine-acre, man-made lake has ample parking nearby.

For those who like to be afloat, canoes can be rented at the park office from spring through late fall. Paddle to secluded spots along the shoreline where the only sound is the ripples of the water.

Fish from choice fishing spots on the banks or try your luck from the seat of a canoe. Bass and bream are waiting to be caught! Anglers must have a North Carolina fishing license. Swimming and private boats are not permitted.

For more information visit: North Carolina State Parks - Crowders Mountain