Events at McDowell Nature Center: Meditation, nature crafts, more

McDowell Nature Center is within McDowell Nature Preserve, at 15222 South York Road, Charlotte, North Carolina, in southwestern Mecklenburg County.

The Nature Center features live native animals, a discovery hall, and a gift shop. Visitors can stop and observe nature in action at the Ozone Garden or the demonstration compost area, or enjoy a natural play area. Self-interpretive trail guides are available for miles of hiking trails.

The nature preserve includes seven miles of hiking trails, boat ramps and fishing docks. Those age 16 and older need a North Carolina fishing license in order to fish.

On the property is also McDowell Campground, which offers 56 reservable campsites, including primitive sites, RV sites with full hookups, and rent-a-tent sites. Camping is also available on the adjacent Copperhead Island.

Events at McDowell Nature Center and Preserve

Visit Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation’s activity search website for even more events. Some have fees. Keep in mind that for most of the events you need to call in advance and register online. Also check out the intended age range.

To register, find the event in Park and Recreation’s activity search website or call the phone number for the nature center. We provide links to register and for more information for each event, when available.

Here are just a very few of the upcoming events!

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Endangered Rivers
Thursday, October 2, 2025
1 to 2:30 p.m.
McDowell
Free (register at above link)
Ages 18+

Water has been a victim to unnecessary things such as pollution and littering which can cause a river to become endangered. We’re going to learn about the causes and how to help slow the process.

 

Upcoming Events in the Charlotte area

Check out our full events calendar, where you can enter any date, or look at the events for the next few days here: