Crowders Mountains State Park 522 Park Office Lane, Gastonia, NC 28086, 704-853-5375, Climb rugged peaks rising 800 feet above the surrounding countryside at this park that is well known for its rock climbing opportunities and is one of the busiest parks in North Carolina. Other features of the park include over 15 miles of hiking and nature trails, numerous picnic facilities, water sports activities, and a primitive pack-in camp. more... 

Crowders Mountain Golf Club 255 Lincoln Academy Road, Gastonia, NC 28086, Kings Mountain, 704-734-0383, Open year round, this scenic 18 hole, par 72 championship mountain golf course features abundant wildlife, rolling hills, great Bermuda fairways, and large bent greens. The course is known as the home of the "Hardest Par 5 in the World" and includes a putting green and a fully stocked pro shop.