Crowders Mountain

522 Park Office Lane Kings Mountain, NC 28086 704-853-5375 crowders.mountain@ncparks.gov GPS: 35.213316, -81.293555 Education and Events: Rangers hold regularly scheduled educational and interpretive programs about Crowders Mountain State Park. To arrange a special exploration of the park for your group or class, contact the park office. Educational materials about Crowders Mountain State Park have been developed for grades 5-7 and are correlated to North Carolina’s competency-based curriculum. The Crowders Mountain program introduces students to basic geologic concepts, including the rock cycle, rock and mineral identification, weathering and erosion, and resource use. 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. Both campgrounds are reached by trail and all supplies must be packed to the campsites. 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 The Pinnacle. Circle the lake on a gravel path or view aquatic plants and animals along a narrow creek. Picnicking: Scattered throughout the picnic area are 28 tables and eight grills in beautiful wooded areas. Drinking water and restrooms are located nearby. Two large shelters with tables and grills are available for group picnics. 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. Bouldering is available on Buzzard’s Roost, near the Boulders Access Area. All climbing regulations, including the requirement of a permit, are in effect, and some sections of Buzzard’s Roost may be closed to bouldering at certain times of the year. Check with park staff for more information. Water Sports: Located near the park office and picnic ground, the nine-acre, man-made lake has ample parking nearby. Canoes can be rented at the park office from spring through late fall yearround, weather permitting. 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. Crowders Mountain State Park is located in Gaston and Cleveland counties, 30 miles west of Charlotte. Take I-85 exit 13 (Edgewood Rd.), turn left and go to U.S. Hwy. 74 (Franklin Blvd.). Turn right and go about three miles to Sparrow Springs Rd. Go left and follow the park signs. North Carolina State Parks are open every day, with the exception of Christmas Day. Park hours vary with the seasons. Please visit the North Carolina State Park website or contact the park office for the most current information about seasonal hours, activities, alerts, camping fees, programs rules and weather. www.ncparks.gov Make a reservation online at ncparks.gov or call 1-877-722-6762.