Charlotte has plenty of spooky spots — from creaky old buildings to ghost tours in Uptown. But if your family loves fresh air and a good ghost story, there are outdoor places near the Queen City with creepy legends of their own.
Come along and meet some of Charlotte’s outdoor ghosts.
We found six real ghost stories connected to historic sites, trails, and nature preserves — all within a day trip of Charlotte. Lace up your shoes, bring snacks (for the kids, not the ghosts), and explore these haunted places if you dare!
Eleanor’s Ghost at Reed Gold Mine – Midland, NC
Reed Gold Mine is where the first documented gold find in the U.S. happened — but not all that glitters here is gold.
One of the mine’s most famous legends is about Eleanor Mills, who reportedly died tragically on the property. Some say her husband threw her body into a mine shaft. Hikers and tour-goers have reported hearing a woman’s scream echoing through the tunnels or seeing a shadow near the old mine entrances.
You can walk the outdoor trails or tour parts of the mine — just keep an ear out for Eleanor.
Tip for families: The site includes restrooms, picnic tables, and short trails. The mine is open for guided tours. Great for older kids curious about spooky history.
Check out our full story on Reed Gold Mine.
The Gold Hill Ghost Town – Gold Hill, NC
This former 1800s mining boomtown is now a preserved village with a ghostly reputation. Visitors have reported shadowy figures, eerie sounds, and an overwhelming feeling of being watched — especially near the old miner’s cabins and powder house ruins.
The town has embraced its spooky side with seasonal ghost tours and stories passed down through generations.
Daytime visits are calm and scenic, but locals say things feel different at dusk.
Tip for families: There’s a small playground, shops, and walking trails. Plan your visit during daylight, and keep little ones close near uneven paths and creek areas.
The Shadows of Gold Hill Mines Historic Park – Gold Hill, NC
Yes, Gold Hill is spooky enough to show up twice.
Beyond the village itself, the Gold Hill Mines Historic Park has its own eerie stories. The 70-foot mineshafts and walking trails around the park have inspired reports of dark figures watching from the trees or darting across the path just out of sight.
The site often hosts fall events, including historic reenactments — but the ghost stories are always part of the experience.
Tip for families: Bring a flashlight if you’re there late in the day. There’s a picnic shelter, restrooms, and space to explore.
Ghostly Children at Latta Place – Huntersville, NC
Set on the grounds of Latta Nature Preserve, the historic Latta Plantation (also called Latta Place) has long been rumored to be haunted.
Visitors and staff over the years reported seeing ghostly children in the attic windows, hearing footsteps in empty rooms, and feeling cold breezes during still summer afternoons.
While the house itself is currently closed, the grounds and surrounding preserve are open for hiking, picnicking, and paddling — and the ghost stories still linger in the trees.
Tip for families: Enjoy the nature center, lake trails, and barnyard area. Trails range from easy to moderate. Restrooms are available near the visitor center.
The Woman in Blue at Rosedale Historic Site – Charlotte, NC
Built in 1815, Historic Rosedale is one of Charlotte’s oldest homes — and reportedly one of the most haunted.
The legend tells of a mysterious woman in a blue dress who appears in the garden or near the treeline. Some say she’s the spirit of a past resident. Others believe she’s attached to a nearby burial site. Either way, she’s usually seen during quiet walks or when visitors feel an unexplained chill.
Tours are available, or you can visit the gardens during open hours. They also offer seasonal haunted tours.
Tip for families: The gardens are stroller-accessible, and the grounds offer short walks with benches. Best for kids who enjoy history or calm exploring.
Footsteps in the Trees at McAlpine Creek Park – Charlotte, NC
This large urban park is a favorite for family walks, bike rides, and scenic bridges — but some locals believe there’s more here than birds and deer.
Stories have circulated for years about people hearing phantom footsteps behind them on empty trails, or catching glimpses of something darting through the woods. Some even say the old mill ruins deep in the woods are tied to those eerie vibes.
It’s one of Charlotte’s best nature parks — with just the right amount of spooky in the fall.
Tip for families: The greenway is stroller-friendly, and there are restrooms and playgrounds near the main entrance. Stick to the main loop if you’ve got younger explorers.
Ready to Explore Charlotte’s Haunted Outdoors?
These aren’t made-up tales — they’re real local legends passed down through ghost tours, historians, and longtime residents. They offer the perfect mix of fall fun, local lore, and outdoor adventure.
Which spot will your family explore first?
🎃 Have you had a spooky experience at one of these places?
Keep the spooky fun going.
Here’s our list of Charlotte’s Haunted Houses
