Closed no more: Memorial Day crowds flock to popular Caldwell County park

CALDWELL COUNTY, N.C. — Many people remember seeing “CLOSED” signs last year at Wilson Creek Gorge, a popular park in Caldwell County.

But this Memorial Day, those signs were down, and crowds filled the park.

ALSO READ: Wilson Creek Gorge reopening has Caldwell County health officials worried

By about 10 a.m., much of the parking at the park had filled up, with families from as far away as Charlotte making the drive to enjoy a day on the river.

Wilson Creek Gorge Memorial Day crowds (WSOC)

Last year on Memorial Day, and through the entire spring, much of the Wilson Creek Gorge was closed to visitors because of COVID-19 restrictions.

>> Reporter Dave Faherty was out a Wilson Creek Gorge on Monday –- watch his full report in the video at the top of this page.

Each year, the area attracts tens of thousands of people for swimming, hiking, fishing and kayaking. It is so popular on holiday weekends that extra law enforcement is brought in to help with traffic congestion.

Because of the huge crowds expected, officials were passing out trash bags to people on the way in, in an effort to get visitors to take out what they bring in.

(WATCH BELOW: Wilson Creek Gorge reopening has Caldwell County health officials worried)