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Summer Guide

Summer shows up a little slower here—in the best way. Mornings stretch longer, afternoons invite you outside, and every turn leads to something worth discovering. Whether you're chasing views, live music, or a table full of local flavor, this is your guide to making the most of the season.

Come spend the weekend with us!

A World Of Play

Play outside. The recreational activities in Gaston County are abundant.

People whitewater rafting on a blue boat through rapids at Whitewater Center

Thrill Seekers

High-energy rapids are also available for those who like to challenge themselves on

class II-IV whitewater. At the Whitewater Center a professional guide will show you the way to lead your raft down the world’s largest man-made, recirculating

whitewater river.

Woman in red tank top rock climbing on a steep cliff.

See The World From Up High

There are two attractions in the County where one can climb to view the World up high, 

Crowders Mountain,  and Whitewater Center, one of the largest outdoor climbing facilities in the region, offers rope routes, bouldering, a 46-foot tall spire for sport and top rope climbing as well as several ziplines and a canopy tour.

Sleep Under The Stars

A great way to conclude an outdoor adventure in Gaston County is to sleep under the stars by camping at either Crowders Mountain State Park or Kings Mountain State Park.

Backpack camping at Crowders Mountain State Park

A Day At The Park

With over 80 parks within the County, enjoyment of the outdoors is easily obtained anywhere your adventure might lead.

Kevin Loftin Park Shelter in Belmont
Playground at Kings Mountain

Playgrounds

While most of our parks offer playgrounds, the one you absolutely must see is at Goat Island Park in Cramerton. If you need to cool off check out the spraygrounds at Harper Park, Lineberger Park or Ranlo Park.

Goat Island Playground in Cramerton

Summer Splash

Most of our towns allow visitors to access their public pools for a reasonable rate. While you are here check out the pools in Bessemer City, Cherryville, Cramerton and Gastonia.

Art & Culture

Delight in the beauty of a garden for all seasons, saunter through an art gallery or revel in the performances from our local actors then pick through antiques located along our historic main streets.  Let us show you how arts and culture take center stage in Gaston County. 

Gaston County Museum in Dallas North Carolina

Origins of Culture Found in Our Museums

Large piece of art represents art in Gaston County

Explore Arts
in Gaston County

Catawba River Antique Mall in Belmont

Unique Finds
Antiques

Hike, Bike & Paddle

Get outdoors and become one with nature.

We are a recreational wonderland!

Trail Hike with Dog Ladies in Gaston County

Hike

With the help of the Carolina Thread Trail, Gaston County offers more than 25 miles of trails incorporating sidewalks, natural-surface and paved trails, giving our visitors a great opportunity to get outside and enjoy nature.

Carolina Thread Trail at Goat Island in Cramerton
Two people cycling on a paved trail by the lake at Rankin Lake in Gastonia

Bike

With options for athletes, weekend warriors, families with kids, and everyone in between, Gaston County has a ride for you.

Paddle

Every day is a good day to be on the water if you are in Gaston County as the scenic views, public access areas and boat rental options abound.

Anchored Soul Evening Paddle on the Catawba River
Keepsake Brewery
Ridgeline-Craft-Beverage-Trail-Logo

The Ridgeline Craft Beverage Trail

The Ridgeline Craft Beverage Trail features breweries, distilleries and wineries in Gaston and Cleveland County . Each has its own unique feel and culture and experienced altogether on the trail makes it a great weekend getaway.

People sitting and relaxing on the patio of Veronet Vineyards.
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