The Dooley family has maintained the farmland that comprise North Corner Haven since 1972. Founders Nina McLean, Bob Dooley, and David Dooley continue to employ a close-knit staff that groom and operate the 625 acres with love, even as they’ve evolved the property into a modern event space. The rich history of NCH, dating back thousands of years, appears in infrastructure remains, age-old boundary markers, and ridges.
North Corner Haven, about forty minutes from The Queen City, hosts events such as weddings, parties, and corporate events. The lush greenery and then staff’s southern hospitality enhances almost any occasion. Plus, the modern Event Barn features a swanky wooden interior and wide windows to bring the outdoor beauty in.
But where the farm really shines is in its open invitation to Charlotteans. It calls them to engage with nature and escape the city for a taste of rural life. The employees have changed their approach to farming in recent years. Now, they employ more sustainable practices that benefit the animals and those who feed off the farm. Their method now is one of permaculture; creating smaller ecosystems within the farm to sustain it as a whole. Some specific practices include using swales to capture water from an elevated position and irrigate the crops, grazing the pigs in designated fruit and nut orchards, and respecting nature in general.
Discover, Shoot Skeet, and Cast a Line
Hundreds of species, including birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and insects, coexist on the farm. The staff offers seasonal farm tours along with informative talks on sustainability and growth. Along with the typical dwarf goat, cow, or chicken spotting, visitors are welcome to take a taste of fresh honey or fresh mulberries along the stroll. Groups can customize educational discovery sessions to learn about life on the farm and the origin of freshly sourced ingredients.
Skeet shooting is offered in the depths of the NCH forest, and full equipment is included in the experience. The solar powered facility contains five stands and seven machines designed to challenge athletes, plus simulated flight paths. Five Stand, a breezy outdoor lounge, provides catered refreshments for a break from the excitement.
Two ponds occupy a few acres of North Corner’s well-kept land. Visitors enjoy casting their line for a bass or bream while kicking back along the grassy bank. Fishing guides offer their services during the warm season to point out the best spots to hook your bait.
The wilderness within North Corner Haven is treated with high respect and love, and the farm’s vast grounds are superb for outdoor sports and education.
