What we’re about
This group is for anyone who enjoys all outdoor recreation activities. McDowell Nature Preserve is located on the banks of Lake Wylie. McDowell offers a variety of activities for all ages and abilities. Activities range from hikes with the family to evening kayaking for the adults. To learn more about activities McDowell has to offer call McDowell Nature Center at 980-314-1128.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED for all programs through McDowell Nature Center. Since McDowell Nature Preserve is a Mecklenburg County run Nature Center and Park, registration through the calling the nature center or online at parkandrec.com is required due to county policy. All RSVPs and comments have been turned off for all events. Registering through the county website is how you RSVP and attend. Some events do require a price.
To request a modification based on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), please contact staff at 980-314-1192 or email TRInfo@MeckNC.gov.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Wagon Ride and CampfireMcDowell Nature Center and Preserve, Charlotte, NC
Take a trip through McDowell Nature Preserve in style! Travel through the McDowell prairie with a naturalist guide then finish at the nature center for a toasty campfire. Please register for this event at Wagon Ride and Campfire. Call McDowell Nature Center at 980-314-1128 with any questions.
- Archery 101 (Adult)McDowell Nature Center and Preserve, Charlotte, NC
Bows and arrows are some of the oldest tools humans have ever used, and still use to this day. Get a grip on basic terminology, practice proper form and safety with a recurve bow and compound bow, then use your new-found knowledge with a little target practice. Pre-registration required; please register at Archery 101. Please feel free to call the McDowell Nature Center with questions at 980-314-1128. Thank you!
- Evening KayakMcDowell Nature Center and Preserve, Charlotte, NC
Experience twilight while paddling the edges of McDowell Nature Preserve. Get a chance to view the setting sun over Lake Wylie with our experienced instructors. Discover the history of Lake Wylie and meet new people in a fun environment. No walk-ins accepted. Pre-registration required at this Evening Kayak link on the website https://parkandrec.mecknc.gov/. Please call the McDowell Nature Center with any questions at 980-314-1128. Thank you!
- After-Work HikeMcDowell Nature Center and Preserve, Charlotte, NC
Unwind after work with a 90-minute hike around the preserve. We will start and end at the Waterfront Deck overlooking Lake Wylie. Pre-registration required at After Work Hike on website https://parkandrec.mecknc.gov/ to join. For more information, call the McDowell Nature Center with any questions at 980-314-1128. Thank you!
