Gastonia Parks & Recreation

Gastonia Skeet and Trap Range

The Gastonia Skeet and Trap Range is located on the Rankin Lake property at the end of a gravel road, named after Bob and Pat Boyd, who operated the facility for many years.  It is accessed from Tulip Drive.

Harrelson Yancey, Mayor from 1951-1955, started the first range on the eastern hill of Rankin Lake Park.  Later the range was moved to the west side of Rankin Lake, on the opposite side of the lake from the park.  For a number of years the range was operated by the Gastonia Police Department.  Several years ago, the Parks and Recreation Department took over the operation.

The Gaston Young Guns Skeet teams hold weekly practice and participate in the four annual skeet shooting tournaments at the Gastonia Skeet and Trap Range.

Directions:  From I-85 North or South, take Exit 17 and and turn left onto Hwy 321 North (Chester Street).  Proceed approximately 0.3 miles to the intersection of Tulip Drive (stoplight).  Turn left and continue 0.7 miles.  Turn right onto Bob & Pat Boyd Drive.  Range is at the end of gravel road.

2018 Skeet Shooting Tournaments

  • Gaston Young Gun’s Junior Open:  Saturday, April 18, 2018
    • 12g (100)
  • Bull Dog Open:  Saturday, June 30, 2018
    • 28g (100)
    • .410 (100)
  • NC Junior Championship – Saturday, July 14, 2018
    • 12g (100)
  • Dove Hunter Open:  Saturday, August 18, 2018
    • 12g (100)
    • 20g (100)
  • Bob & Pat Boyd Memorial:  Saturday, September 22, 2018
    • 12g (100)