Kings Mountain National Military Park - Blacksburg, SC - Historical Battlefield with Hiking Trails

Located in Blacksburg, South Carolina, Kings Mountain National Military Park lies in both York and Cherokee Counties. Established on March 3, 1931, by an act of Congress, Kings Mountain National Military Park commemorates the Battle of Kings Mountain. The Battle of Kings Mountain took place on October 7, 1780. American Patriots defeated the Loyalist forces led by British Major Patrick Ferguson. This battle was considered one of the turning points of the Revolutionary War in the South. The Battle of Kings Mountain was the first significant Patriot victory to take place after the Continental Army's demise in Camden and Charleston.

The Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail ends at the Military Park. The Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail actually commemorates the route that the Patriot forces used to arrive at the Battle of Kings Mountain.

The Military Park receives the most visitors in May and October. January and December are the months with the lowest visitation. The Military Park is open weekdays from 9:00am to 5:00pm daily. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, weekend hours are extended to 9:00am-6:00pm. Kings Mountain National Military Park is closed on New Year's Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.

There is no cost for admission to the Military Park, but donations are accepted at the Visitor Center. The Visitor Center features a museum exhibit area and a sales outlet. Visitors can also watch a film about the Battle of Kings Mountain. The film is 27 minutes long. The Visitor Center houses a bookstore. The bookstore is located in the lobby and managed by Eastern National.

Kings Mountain National Military Park is adjacent to Kings Mountain State Park. The two parks have worked together to establish 16 miles of horse trails and 16 miles of hiking trails. The Military Park is home to Battlefield Trail. Battlefield Trail is a self-guiding trail that loops around the battlefield site. The trail is 1.5 miles long. Ferguson's Cairn, which is where British Major Patrick Ferguson is buried, is located along Battlefield Trail. In addition, Battlefield Trail features wayside exhibits, U.S. Monument Markers, and other markers.

Lodging is available in the nearby North Carolinian cities of Gastonia and Kings Mountain. Gaffney, South Carolina, also offers lodging nearby. There is also one designated backcountry campsite within the Military Park. Neighboring Kings Mountain State Park offers visitors a campground with 116 campsites. Those interested in additional information about the campground can call 803-222-3209.

In addition to the Military Park's historical value, the Military Park is an ideal location for visitors to observe wildlife, wildflowers, and birds. The National Park Service recommends that visitors plan to spend a minimum of two hours on the grounds in order to fully experience the Visitors Center and Battlefield Trail.

School groups and other educational groups should make reservations for their trip to the Military Park at least three weeks in advance. Applications for Special Use Permits require a minimum of four weeks advance notice. Additional information regarding Special Use Permits and reservations can be obtained by calling 864-936-7921.