McDowell County Map, North Carolina, USA

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Map of McDowell County, North Carolina

About McDowell County, North Carolina

McDowell County is a county located in the U.S. state of North Carolina. It's county seat is Marion. As per 2020 census, the population of McDowell County is 44717 people and population density is square miles. According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 446 sq mi (1,155 km2). McDowell County was established on 1842.

Facts about McDowell County, North Carolina

CountryUnited States
StateNorth Carolina
RegionWestern North Carolina / Foothills & Appalachian Mountains
County SeatMarion
Named AfterJoseph McDowell (Revolutionary War officer)
Established1842
Coordinates~35.70° N, 82.07° W
Total Area~445.35 sq mi
Land Area~439.95 sq mi
Water Area~5.40 sq mi
Population (2020)~44,578
Estimated Population (2024)~45,269
Population Density~101 per sq mi
Major CommunitiesMarion, Old Fort, Nebo, Glenwood, West Marion, Pleasant Gardens
Main IndustriesManufacturing, Services, Tourism, Outdoor recreation
Major RoadsInterstate 40, U.S. Highway 221, U.S. Highway 70, NC Highway 226
Time ZoneEastern Time (UTC−05:00)
Known ForGateway to the Mountains scenery, Lake James & Catawba River, Linville Caverns & waterfalls, historic Marion downtown
Websitehttps://www.mcdowellgov.com

Top Attractions in McDowell County, North Carolina

  • Mount Mitchell State Park – Highest peak east of the Mississippi and hiking trails.
  • Lake James State Park – Boating, fishing, and scenic views.
  • Linville Falls – Waterfall hiking and overlooks.
  • Pisgah National Forest – Trails and mountain scenery.
  • Old Fort Downtown Historic District – Shops and dining.
  • McDowell County Heritage Museum – Local history exhibits.
  • Mountains-to-Sea Trail – Hiking access points.
  • Rhododendron Lake – Picnic and walking trails.
  • Hickory Nut Gorge – Scenic views and outdoor activities.
  • Iron Furnace Historical Site – Historic ironworks landmark.

Cities & Towns in McDowell County, North Carolina

Morganton, Marion, Old Fort, Nebo, Glenwood, Catawba, McDowell