Explore Crowders Mountain State Park

Crowders Mountain State Park in southwestern North Carolina stretches from the South Carolina state line northeast toward Gastonia, North Carolina. The park follows a rugged Appalachian mountain range that includes Crowders Mountain and Kings Pinnacle. Crowders Mountain is a kyanite and quartzite monadnock rising to 1,625 feet with sheer vertical cliffs. Kyanite was mined in the area in the 19th century. In contrast, Kings Pinnacle has a higher elevation of 1,705 feet with a rounded profile. The land was once the hunting ground of the Catawba and Cherokee Indians. During the Revolutionary War, a small army of American patriots who had settled along the border marched over this ridge to fight the British Army near Kings Mountain in South Carolina. These rudimentary “Overmountain” men, who were mostly farmers and hunters, surprised the British troops commanded by Major Patrick Ferguson and inflicted heavy casualties. This decisive victory for the Patriot forces was a turning point in the war, causing the British to withdraw from the region.

There are miles of hiking trails in Crowders Mountain State Park. The Ridgeline Trail begins near the summit of Kings Pinnacle and follows the ridge south to the South Carolina state line. In South Carolina, the Ridgeline Trail connects with trails that continue through Kings Mountain State Park and Kings Mountain National Military Park near Blacksburg. Other trails in Crowders Mountain State Park lead hikers to the top of Crowders Mountain. The Backside Trail is strenuous, with 336 steps at the top. The Rocktop Trail and Tower Trail are also strenuous and steep. The Lake Trail and the Fern Trail are much easier to hike. Visitors can see a variety of wildlife in the park, including black vultures and turkeys perching on rocky outcroppings.

Another popular activity at Crowders Mountain State Park is rock climbing, which is allowed in designated areas. Pistons and bolts are not allowed. Bouldering is allowed at Buzzards Roost. Fishing is permitted in the park’s lake with a North Carolina fishing license. Canoes are available for rent. Other recreational activities include picnicking and camping. Primitive campsites are available with water and pit toilets. Campers must walk to the sites with their gear. There are also primitive group camps in the park.

Crowders Mountain State Park is accessible from I-85 in North Carolina at Exit 8 (Highway 161). Follow the directional signs to the park. The park is open year-round, but park hours vary by season. There is no entrance fee to the park.