Gates County is a county located in the state of North Carolina. As of 2000, the population is 10,516. Its county seat is Gatesville.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 346 square miles. 

The county is divided into eight townships: Gatesville, Hall, Haslett, Holly Grove, Hunters Mill, Mintonsville, Reynoldson and Sunbury.