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- Creek Seekers Stream WatchMcDowell Nature Center and Preserve, Charlotte, NC
Stream Watch is a community science program designed to collect data about the health of our local streams. This program will run almost every Friday in the summer to collect consistent information about our stream. The first 45 minutes will be our optional abiotic stream assessment portion. The second 45 minutes of the program will be our creek exploration for critters in the water. Cool down this summer with your family, get involved in your community with assessing the health of our streams, and catch some interesting critters. No walk-ins accepted. Pre-registration required at Creek Seekers Stream Watch. This is not a drop off program. Adult participation required. Please call the McDowell Nature Center with any questions at 980-314-1128. Thank you!
- Lake Wylie Kayak TourMcDowell Nature Center and Preserve, Charlotte, NC
Paddle the edges of McDowell Nature Preserve with our experienced instructors while enjoying nature with your family. Discover the natural history that makes Lake Wylie a great destination for wildlife viewing. All equipment provided. No walk-ins accepted. Pre-registration required at Lake Wylie Kayak Tour. Please call the McDowell Nature Center with any questions at 980-314-1128. Thank you!
- Intro to Stand Up PaddleboardingMcDowell Nature Center and Preserve, Charlotte, NC
Jump into a new adventure on a Stand-up Paddleboard while exploring the beauty of Lake Wylie! Discover the strokes, maneuvers, and rescue techniques of SUP's with our ACA Certified Instructors. All equipment provided! No walk-ins accepted. Pre-registration required at Intro to Stand Up Paddleboarding. Please call the McDowell Nature Center with any questions at 980-314-1128.
- Lake Wylie Kayak TourMcDowell Nature Center and Preserve, Charlotte, NC
Paddle the edges of McDowell Nature Preserve with our experienced instructors while enjoying nature with your family. Discover the natural history that makes Lake Wylie a great destination for wildlife viewing. All equipment provided. No walk-ins accepted. Pre-registration required at Lake Wylie Kayak Tour. Please call the McDowell Nature Center with any questions at 980-314-1128. Thank you!
