Kings Mountain National Military Park

Kings Mountain National Military Park

Parks › South Carolina › Kings Mountain

Quick Facts

Kings Mountain National Military Park

South Carolina

(435) 259-2100

Map Directions

Things To Do

     

Overview

Kings Mountain National Military Park commemorates a pivotal and significant victory by American Patriots over American Loyalists during the Southern Campaign of the Revolutionary War. The battle fought on October 7, 1780 destroyed the left wing of Cornwallis' army and effectively ended Loyalist ascendance in the Carolinas. The victory halted the British advance into North Carolina, forced Lord Cornwallis to retreat from Charlotte into South Carolina, and gave General Nathanael Greene the opportunity to reorganize the American Army.

Map of Kings Mountain

Latitude, Longitude: 35.137228, -81.391324

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Activities

  • Camping

    Camping is allowed at Garner Creek Campsite only. A three 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. Site holds 10-12 people. Registration is required.

  • Hiking

    Battlefield Trail - The 1.5 mile self-guiding 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 the National Military and State parks 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 to hike this trail. 2. Browns Mountain Trail- A 2.5 mile trail from the visitor center to 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)- A 3 mile trail from the visitor center to Lake Crawford (located in 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

  • Horseback Riding

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

Seasonality/Weather

Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving, New Year's, and Christmas Day.

Directions

Driving

Kings Mountain National Military Park is located on South Carolina Highway 216. From Greenville, SC travel on I-85 North to NC Exit #2. From Charlotte, NC travel on I- 85 South to NC Exit #2. NOTE: GPS units do not recognize the parks address, therefore do not enter 2625 Park Road into your GPS unit. Call the park for directions.

Flying

Large airline carriers operate in Charlotte, NC and Greenville, SC. Both cities are within an hours drive of the park. Car rentals are available at both locations.

Phone Numbers

Primary

(435) 259-2100

Links