Montgomery County: Lakes, Culture and Outdoor Activities

Lakes and Specific Nature Destinations

Badin Lake is one of the three lakes that Montgomery County especially highlights for visitors. Together, these three lakes have more than 230 miles of shoreline; this figure applies to all three lakes. Jumping Off Rock offers a scenic view of Barnes Creek. At the King’s Mountain Point Day Use Area, visitors have access to four accessible fishing piers. There is also a 0.5-mile paved, accessible trail around the day-use area. This offers a choice of distinct nature experiences: a named viewpoint, fishing piers, and a trail.

Outdoor Activities

The Wood Run Mountain Bike Trail System offers 22 miles of mountain biking trails. The Badin Lake Recreation Area in Uwharrie National Forest has two horse camps and more than 40 miles of riding trails. For choosing between biking and horseback riding, there are two separate offerings to consider: a mountain bike trail system on the one hand, and camps and riding trails on the other.

The Badin Lake Recreation Area also has nearly 20 miles of OHV trails. Check trail status and permit requirements before your trip. Recreational gold panning is allowed in most areas of Uwharrie National Forest; this restriction to most areas is important for planning.

The facilities also differ: Flintlock Valley Shooting Range has a covered 100-yard rifle range with seven firing positions. The area’s newest golf course is south of the bridge over Lake Tillery. Check current information about the golf course’s operation before making plans.

History and Pottery Culture

Town Creek Indian Mound is North Carolina’s only state historic site dedicated to interpreting the state’s Indigenous heritage. The Town Creek Site served as an important ceremonial center of the Pee Dee culture; its main period of settlement was in the 15th century AD. The site therefore combines a specific historical context with its present-day significance as a place for interpreting Indigenous history.

As of July 28, 2026, the visitor center and gift shop at Town Creek Indian Mound are closed. The mound and village remain open for self-guided visits. Check the visiting conditions again before your visit.

The northeastern corner of Montgomery County is part of the Seagrove Pottery Area. More than 100 potters work throughout its rural surroundings. This differs in scope from Town Creek Indian Mound: Seagrove refers to an area with potters working in scattered locations, while Town Creek is a single state historic site.

Farmers’ Markets

The Star Farmer’s Market is located at the Star Heritage Center; the Troy Farmer’s Market is in the Town of Troy parking lot. The two markets therefore have distinct, clearly named locations. Since their schedules can change, check the current market days before your visit.

Explore more destinations: Biscoe, Jackson, Brunswick, Lenoir, Carteret County, Onslow County, Stanly County, Nash

For the main travel overview: North Carolina.