Park Planned for Large Tract Along Lake Wylie Shoreline
Years-long effort culminates in purchase and preservation of 562 acres in Belmont
Gaston County has purchased one of the largest undeveloped tracts along Lake Wylie to build a massive park with trails for hiking and mountain biking, public access to Lake Wylie and a connection to the Carolina Thread Trail.
The culmination of a years-long effort between Catawba Lands Conservancy (CLC), The Conservation Fund, Gaston County and the NC Land and Water Fund, the purchase will preserve 562 acres bordering the Catawba Creek Cove just north of the South Carolina border in Belmont.
The future park will feature 6 miles of public trails including the Carolina Thread Trail, which will link the park to other communities and destinations along the 23-mile Matthews-Belk South Fork River Corridor such as Daniel Stowe Conservancy and Spencer Mountain.
“Conserving lands for recreation strengthens local economies, improves community health and inspires future generations to the cause of conservation,” said Amanda Byrum, senior field representative for The Conservation Fund. “We’re thrilled that this partnership will provide a new park with first-class trails and amenities and play a crucial role in protecting water quality in the region.”
Located in a rapidly developing part of the county, the property includes floodplains and wetlands that filter stormwater runoff and serve as habitat for wildlife like osprey and bald eagles, which use the land for nesting grounds, among other species.
The property was previously owned by Duke Energy and will now be permanently protected under conservation easements held by the Conservancy and the State of North Carolina.
“The great outdoors and Gaston County go hand in hand,” stated Jim Bailey, the Gaston County commissioner for South Point Township, which comprises Belmont, Cramerton, McAdenville, Lowell, southern Mount Holly, and southeastern Gastonia. “Conserving this undeveloped land along Lake Wylie with the help of our partners is the catalyst for expanding recreational access to the South Point area for many years to come.”
Read more: The Ultimate Charlotte Outdoor Adventure Guide, From Whitewater to Greenways
The CLC protects more than 18,000 acres of land in Catawba, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Mecklenburg, and Union counties, including the Seven Oaks Nature Preserve, which runs along 2 miles of shoreline in Catawba Cove. The new park will be located just north of the Daniel Stowe Conservancy, which protects 380 acres of land, and the Michaux Gardens community.
“Catawba Cove is poised to become a signature outdoor destination offering the rare opportunity to experience an expansive, undeveloped stretch of Lake Wylie,” read Monday’s release from CLC, “all while safeguarding nature for future generations.”
