STORIES

Looking for a trail running challenge near Charlotte? Join us on Saturday, March 7, 2026, for Perennial , a timed trail running event at the beautiful Daniel Stowe Conservancy  in Belmont, NC. Choose your challenge—3-hour, 6-hour, or 10-hour options—and run along scenic waterfront trails and crushed-gravel loops, perfect for hitting a personal best while enjoying the outdoors. Every loop you complete brings a new opportunity to collect prizes, cheer on fellow runners, and exp

Your next outdoor adventure starts here in Gaston County. This destination is an amazing for families to get outside, become one with...

Embrace the final rays of summer and make this Labor Day weekend unforgettable by venturing to Gaston County—a hidden gem nestled in the heart of North Carolina. As the season draws to a close, there's no better place to bid farewell to summer than amidst the charm and splendor of Gaston County. Here, you can revel in an array of holiday festivities, bask in the glory of our breathtaking outdoor activities, immerse yourself in our rich culture and history, and savor delectabl

This year marks the 6 th annual “Bon Temps Paddle Battle on Wylie” and they have packed in the fun for those who want to come out and...

Thanks to warmer weather and longer days, May is a great time to travel. Memorial Day is a three-day weekend, creating the perfect...

Gaston County Tourism is proud to sponsor RiverFest 2026 , a day-long celebration of the Catawba River hosted by Catawba Riverkeeper . This unforgettable festival invites you to experience the best of Gaston County—local music, outdoor adventure, art, food, and family fun—all while supporting clean water and river conservation. Make plans now to spend Saturday, May 2, 2026 on the banks of the South Fork in downtown McAdenville , with the party floating downstream to Cramerto

Meet us at the Caromont Health Park ball park on May 9, 2025 for a fun night of baseball as the Gastonia Ghost Peppers take on the High...

Spring is the perfect time to explore Gaston County! Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, a romantic retreat, a cultural journey, or a festive weekend, there’s something for everyone. Here are some exciting weekend getaway ideas to make the most of the season. 1. Outdoor Adventure Weekend If you love the great outdoors, Gaston County offers incredible opportunities to explore nature and get active. Hike Crowders Mountain State Park  – Challen

GOAT ISLAND GAMES Goat Island Park in Cramerton 141 8th Avenue, Cramerton NC Saturday, May 2, 2026 Join us at Goat Island Park in Cramerton for the Goat Island Games, a fun-filled event perfect for the entire family! Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 2nd 2026 in beautiful Riverfront Downtown Cramerton. Whether you’re looking to compete, enjoy live music, or simply relax with friends and family, there’s something for everyone. Why Attend? The Goat Island Games offer a mix

Spring is here, and Gaston County is coming alive. Longer, warmer, sunny days with Carolina blue skies beckon you to get outside and try something new. Here are 21 things to do to enjoy the season. Paddling the South Fork River. Photo courtesy of Catawba Riverkeeper 1 Paddle our blueways Sunny days warm our rivers making it fun to paddle the blueways of the Catawba or South Fork River. Grab a boat and head to either for a day of fun on the water. If you have equipment, or, ch

Green River Revival at Whitewater Center Photo Credit: Whitewater Center As the seasons shift towards spring, the Whitewater Center is gearing up to kick off its annual celebration with the return of the Green River Revival and the Color Me Green 5K Trail Run. For years, the Whitewater Center, on the Catawba River just across from Mount Holly, has been the go-to destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. And now, this much-anticipated event returns this year,

Gaston County, a region teeming with captivating natural wonders, beckons you to embark on an extraordinary winter paddling adventure....

When it comes to paddling, Gaston County is an under-the-radar destination that packs a powerful punch. Four-season paddling on...

If you’ve done the beach and the mountains, and looking for something new, now is the time to try Gaston County. As summer draws to an...

We're thrilled to announce our designation as a Outdoor NC Trail Town and celebrate the launch of the Official North Carolina Trail Town...

Summertime makes people want to get out and explore! If you've done the beach and the mountains and are looking for something new, now is...

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

Let the paddling season begin! We have multiple ways to get on the water in Gaston County on the Catawba River and its South Fork, Lake...

Now is the time for you and your best fur-friend to hit the road for a weekend of fun.

Gaston County, North Carolina, boasts a wealth of natural beauty, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in its tranquil and...