About us
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
5
Nature at Night Festival
McDowell Nature Center and Preserve, 15222 South York Rd., Charlotte, NC, USCelebrate all things nocturnal during McDowell Nature Center's family friendly annual Nature at Night festival. This fun-filled, educational event shines a spotlight on what nature has to offer after the sun goes down. Ticket price includes live animals, crafts, night hikes, wagon rides, s'mores, popcorn, and interactive booths! Meals are not included in the ticket price. Food Trucks will be onsite for meals to purchase separately. Pre-registration required at Nature at Night.
1 attendee
Old Growth Forest 50-Year Dedication Ceremony
McDowell Nature Center and Preserve, 15222 South York Rd., Charlotte, NC, USDid you know that the McDowell Nature Preserve turns 50 in October 2026? In honor of our protected, mature, native forest the Old-Growth Forest Network will be designating us as part of their National network of forests! See what the buzz is all about during this ceremonious event. Stay after the ceremony for a hike through the oldest part of the preserve guided by experienced naturalists. Pre-registration required at Forest 50-Year Dedication Ceremony.
2 attendees
50-Year Dedication Night Hike
McDowell Nature Center and Preserve, 15222 South York Rd., Charlotte, NC, USIn honor of our protected, mature, native forest the Old-Growth Forest Network will be designating us as part of their National network of forests! See what the buzz is all about during this guided night hike through the preserve on the newly dedicated trail. Stay afterwards for a campfire and additional preserve lore! Pre-registration required at 50-Year Dedication Night Hike.
1 attendee
Past events
1062
