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](mailto:TRInfo@MeckNC.gov).
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Babes in the WoodsMcDowell Nature Center and Preserve, Charlotte, NC
Hit the (paved) trail with your little one and experience what nature has to offer this month. Stretch your legs while you chat with other parents and a McDowell Naturalist in a casual, social setting. Stollers are welcome, we will stick to paved surfaces. Parent must register along with child to attend program. No walk-ins accepted. Pre-registration required at Babes in the Woods (for all participants, adult and child alike). Please call the McDowell Nature Center with any questions at 980-314-1128. Thank you!
- Backpacking 101 TripMcDowell Nature Center and Preserve, Charlotte, NC
Backpacking trips offer a perfect blend of adventure and self-discovery. This program is designed for those looking to escape the routine and connect with nature. On this immersive class we cover all the topics of a backpacking; trip planning, camp set up, outdoor cooking and gear. Pre-registration required at Backpacking 101 Trip. Please call the McDowell Nature Center with any questions at 980-314-1128. Thank you!
- Handcrafted History: Container GardensMcDowell Nature Center and Preserve, Charlotte, NC
Step back and in time and discuss how people have been handcrafting goods and making art for hundreds or even thousands of years. This program will consist of a short presentation about the history of the art form followed by a hands-on experience making your own creation to take home and enjoy! During this program, we will discuss some tips for container gardening. At the end of the class, we decorate a container and create a small container garden that can fit in any space. Pre-registration required at Handcrafted History: Container Gardens.
- 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 Evening Kayak. Please call the McDowell Nature Center with any questions at 980-314-1128. Thank you!
