Recreation things to do

Walking Trail

Battlefield Trail - This 1.5-mile self-guided walking trail allows the visitor to see both perspectives of the battlefield. Wayside exhibits around the trail highlight battle events. The Centennial Monument, U.S. Monument, and Ferguson's Grave are key features along the trail.

This paved trail is foot travel only, with the exception of motorized wheelchairs. Although the trail is paved, it is steep in places. People in wheelchairs should use extreme caution. Benches are located around the trail.

Backcountry Hiking Trails

Together, Kings Mountain National Military Park and Kings Mountain State Park offer 16 miles of hiking trails. There are three trails to choose from:

1. Park Loop Trail - This 16-mile loop trail goes through both parks. Plan on spending a full day hiking this trail.
2. Browns Mountain Trail - This 2.5-mile trail leads from the visitor center to the top of Browns Mountain. This is not a loop trail. You must backtrack to get back to the visitor center. A total hike of 5 miles.
3. Clarks Creek (Lake Crawford) - This 3-mile trail leads from the visitor center to Lake Crawford (located in the state park). This is not a loop trail. You must backtrack to get back to the visitor center. A total hike of 6 miles.

Hikers must register at the visitor center before hiking on backcountry trails.

Horse Trails

16 miles of horse trails cross through both the National Military Park and state park. Horses are not provided. For more information, contact Kings Mountain State Park.

Camping

Camping is allowed at Garner Creek Campsite only. A three (3) mile hike is required to access the campsite. Visitors must obtain a permit (free) from the visitor center before using the site. The campsite is first-come, first-served; no reservations will be taken. The site holds 10-12 people. Registration is required.

Birding

The park is an ideal place to view many species of birds. Trails within the park lead to higher, drier areas like Browns Mountain, where hikers might see high-flying hawks and vultures. Trails also lead to the lower, larger streams that various wood warblers love to frequent. Trails leading into the adjacent Kings Mountain State Park pass lakes with waterfowl and pastures where many birds feed.