Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation maintains several nature centers, Reedy Creek, Quest at Latta Preserve, McDowell and Stevens Creek. The nature centers provide an excellent introduction to the wildlife and plant life of the area. In addition, they also host festivals, workshops, nature hikes, campfire and more events, many of which are free.
Each of these nature centers is on a nature preserve with its own unique character and features. Read on to learn a little bit about each one, and scroll down to see some of the upcoming free events at the nature centers. A good way to find out about the nature centers’ upcoming events and news is to follow Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Nature Centers on Facebook.
The nature centers are free to visit.
Quest at Latta Nature Preserve
Quest
6345 Sample Road, Huntersville
Northern Mecklenburg County
980-314-1129
July 9th to September 5th, 2021 (weekends only) Friday, Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Starting September 7th, 2021: Monday to Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Quest is a brand new destination for outdoor recreation and environmental education in North Mecklenburg County. Nestled inside the Latta Nature Preserve, Quest is the place to go to learn, play and explore the wonders of water, woods, and wildlife. Carolina Raptor Center will also be joining this facility soon.
Carolina Raptor Center, a neighbor in Latta Nature Preserve, is moving its operations to Quest. Raptor programs are started to take place at Quest.
Latta is a gateway to Mountain Island Lake and provides a perfect place to launch kayaks onto Gar Creek and Mountain Island Lake, including an ADA accessible ramp. There are many places to fish. Those 16 and older need a North Carolina fishing license.
The preserve includes 16 miles of trails, and is the only only public Mecklenburg County property open to horseback riding, with 13 miles of those trails designated as horseback and hiking trails. The remaining three are just for hiking.
One section of trails has become known as a year-long site for fairy houses and is a fun place to explore with young children. One of the most popular events is the annual Fairy House Festival in February.
Stevens Creek Nature Center
Stevens Creek Nature Center
15700 Thompson Road, Mint Hill, NC 28227
980-314-2526
July 9th to September 5th, 2021 (weekends only) Friday, Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Starting September 7th, 2021: Monday to Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The nature center features live native animals, two classrooms (including one rentable space), gift shop, and an exhibit hall with interactive exhibits. The exhibits focus on protecting water quality and include an augmented reality sand table, living stream with fish and turtles, and 5-foot tall model of the federally endangered Carolina Heelsplitter mussel.
Environmental education and outdoor recreation staff offer public and private programming for all ages. Visitors can borrow loaner backpacks to take activities out on the trails or busy bags for smaller children to play with inside.
Within the preserve, visitors can observe nature in action along 3 miles of natural-surface hiking trails. The path to the pedestrian bridge over the recently-restored Stevens Creek is fully accessible. Self-interpretive trail maps are available for the trails.
Reedy Creek Nature Center
Reedy Creek Nature Center
2900 Rocky River Rd. Charlotte, NC 28215
Northeastern Mecklenburg County
980-314-1119
July 9th to September 5th, 2021 (weekends only) Friday, Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Starting September 7th, 2021: Monday to Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The nature center features live, native animals, an exhibit hall, a classroom, and a gift shop. Outside, visitors can stop and observe nature in action at the National Wildlife Federation certified Backyard Habitat Garden which includes bird feeding stations, butterfly gardens, and a demonstration compost area. Self-interpretive trail guides are available for several nature preserve trails.
Fishing is available at the two ponds. Those age 16 and older need fishing licenses.
There’s a natural playground outside the nature center and ten miles of marked trails. One highlight of the trails is the Robinson Rock House. The ruins of the circa 1790 home is a popular destination of hikers. (The hike is short and easy enough for small children.
Adjacent to the nature preserve (it shares an entrance) is Reedy Creek Park, which includes two playgrounds, a dog park, basketball and volleyball courts, horseshoe pit, a community garden, softball and soccer fields, picnic shelters and more.
McDowell Nature Center
McDowell Nature Center
15222 South York Rd, Charlotte, NC 28278
Southwestern Mecklenburg County
980-314-1128
July 9th to September 5th, 2021 (weekends only) Friday, Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Starting September 7th, 2021: Monday to Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Campground: 980-314-2267
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.
Other Nature Preserves
There are additional nature preserves that do not have nature centers. You can find a list of them here.
We took a special look at a few of these nature preserves, including videos and lots of pictures. Click on the links below to see them.
Upcoming free and cheap events at Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Nature Centers and Preserves
This is not a complete list of events at the nature centers and preserves.
Visit the Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Nature Centers’ Facebook page or 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. 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.
Hike for your Health
Tuesdays, scheduled through October 25th, 2022
5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Reedy Creek
Free
Age 14+
Get outside, get moving, get healthy! Fresh air, sunshine, beautiful surroundings and wonderful people are included! This is a medium to fast walk of 2.5 to 3 miles over an hour+ on uneven terrain. Adult participation required if under 18.
Salamander Stream Search
Saturday, September 3rd, 2022
10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Quest – Latta
Free
Ages 5-10
Get muddy and navigate through the creeks and streams at Latta nature preserve while discovering what critters call these areas home, including salamanders, crawfish and more! Be prepared to hike approximately 2 miles and wear proper Shoes/attire, as we may get wet!
Turtle Encounters
Sunday, September 4th, 2022
1 to 1:30 and 3 to 3:30 p.m.
Quest – Latta
Free
All ages
Meet some of the nature center’s resident turtles up close during one of these live animal shows.
Mushrooms 101 Walk and Talk
Saturday, September 3rd, 2022
2 to 3:30 p.m.
Reedy Creek
Age 10+
Free
September is mushroom month! Celebrate the amazing world of fungi during this very basic mushroom walk and talk. We will explore the natural history of the amazing fungal world as we stroll through the forest looking for examples. Must be able to hike up to 2 miles on uneven terrain. Note This is NOT a mushroom ID program. We will identifying a few species but this is not the focus. Adult participation required if under 18.
Storytime and Craft: The Lorax
Sunday, September 4th, 2022
2 to 3 p.m.
Reedy Creek
Free
All ages
Families can “speak for the trees” at Reedy Creek! During this storytime, we’ll explore why it is important to protect our trees and plants. Families will also get to create and bring home their own truffula trees. Adult participation is required if under 18.
Family Night Hike
Friday, September 9th, 2022
7 to 8:30 p.m.
Stevens Creek
$5 for Meck County resident; $6 for non-resident
Age 8+
Friday Morning Nature Hike
Fridays, scheduled from September 9th to October 21st, 2022 (except October 14th)
9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Free
Ages 5 and up
As the seasons change, so do the plants and animals outside! Take a hike with our naturalist friends through Latta Nature Preserve every Friday – you’re bound to see something new every week 9-11am. This is a moderate-paced hike. Be prepared to hike up to 4 miles in two hours. Hike will start no later than 9:05 a.m. at a new location on the preserve each week. Click on the specific hike to find the location.
Freshwater friends — Stream Exploration
Saturday, September 10th, 2022
10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Reedy Creek
Free
Ages 7-13
Freshwater is one of our most important resources. Dive in deep and learn about streams through activities in the classroom and a brief hike. We will investigate how streams are structured and how they impact their surroundings. Adult participation required.
Fitness Hike
Saturday, September 10th, 2022
12:30 to 2 p.m.
Quest – Latta
Free
Age 18+
Push your limits with a fitness-focused hike at Latta Nature Preserve on the Hill and Split Rock Trail! Journey along the trail on a moderate-paced hike, while taking in some fresh air. Plan to hike about 2 miles in an hour or less.
Outdoor Women Hiking Group
2nd Saturday of the month (scheduled for September 10th and October 8th, 2022)
1 to 2 p.m.
Reedy Creek
Free
Age 12+
Gather with other women who enjoy the outdoors and hiking. We will hike approximately 2 miles of Reedy Creek trails. Adult participation required if under 18.
Fall Birdwatching
Saturday, September 10th, 2022
8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
Stevens Creek
Free
Age 16+
Creek Cool-Off
Saturday, September 10th, 2022
2 to 4 p.m.
McDowell
Free
All ages
Explore and splash around in the creek to cool off and search for macroinvertebrates with an afternoon of dip netting.
Super Sunday Scavenger Hunt at McDowell
Sundays from September 4th to October 30th, 2022
1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
McDowell
Free
All ages
Grab your friends and family, put on your detective hats, and head over to McDowell Nature Center for an afternoon of nature discovery. Once you complete the hunt, check back in with the nature center for a prize. Pre-registration is NOT required as this is a self-led activity. Each week has a different theme.
Adult Trail Trekkers
Tuesdays, 1 to 2:30 p.m., through October 25th, 2022
Thursdays, 9 to 11 a.m., through October 27th, 2022
McDowell
Free
Ages 18+
Get active in nature with a McDowell Naturalist during this 90-minute, adult only hike. Discover what is happening seasonally throughout the preserve.
Family Nature Hour: Mushrooms
Monday, September 12th, 2022
2 to 3 p.m.
Reedy Creek
Free
All ages
Bring the whole family to discover the outdoors. We will celebrate National Mushroom Month by searching for mushrooms and examining what makes mushrooms special. Adult participation required if under 18.
Knee-High Naturalists: Stream ROMP
Thursday, September 15th, 2022
10 to 11 a.m.
Reedy Creek
Free
Ages 3-7
In this special monthly Knee-High Naturalist program, we leave the classroom completely behind and go on an outdoor adventure. This month’s ROMP will take place in one of our streams. Dress to get dirty and let’s see what we can discover!
Hike/Yoga
Saturdays October 1st and 29th, 2022
9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Stevens Creek
$7
Age 10+
Hit the trails to get your sweat on with Yogibelle, Certified Yoga Instructor, as she leads a steady fitness hike over 1-ish miles of easy/moderate natural-surface trails. Back at the center, follow a guided yoga flow with modifications for any level and every BODY. The hike is optional; option to meet just for yoga at 10am. BYO mat, blocks, and straps or borrow ours. Questions before you register? Email Belle at yb@yogibelle.com. Drop-ins welcome.
Scare Crow? Scare No! (Build your own Scare Crow)
Saturday, October 1st, 2022
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Stevens Creek
Meck County residents: $10; non-residents $12
All ages
Each group will get their own workspace and materials. Register based on number of scare crows your family would like to build. No need to register individual family members separately.
All ages are welcome to join, but adult supervision is required for participants under 18 years of age.
Please call 980-314-2526 if you have any questions regarding how to register.
Salamander Stream Search
Wednesday, October 5th, 2022
1 to 2:30 p.m.
Quest – Latta
Free
Ages 5-10
Get muddy and navigate through the creeks and streams at Latta nature preserve while discovering what critters call these areas home, including salamanders, crawfish and more! Be prepared to hike approximately 2 miles and wear proper Shoes/attire, as we may get wet!
Creekside Crew
Wednesdays, October 5th and 19th, 2022
1 to 3 p.m.
Stevens Creek
Meck County residents: $6; non-resident: $7
Ages 5-12
Choose your age group(s) and get ready for child-led exploration of everything from bugs to birds, slacklining to disc golf. Our professional and enthusiastic outdoor educators facilitate the fun while letting the kids take the lead.
Longboard 101
Thursday, October 6th, 2022
5:30 to 7 p.m.
McAlpine Creek Greenway, 8784 Monroe Road, Charlotte, NC
Meck County residents: $10; non-residents: $13
Ages 18+
Do you enjoy an evening stroll along one of the county’s fantastic greenways? Instead of a stroll, how about a roll? Hop on a longboard and get a rundown of the basics. After the lesson, take an easy ride along McAlpine Creek Greenway. No previous experience required. Please note that this program is presented by Stevens Creek Nature Preserve but is held at McAlpine Greenway. Pre-registration required. Longboard and all safety gear provided or you can bring your own if preferred. Closed-toed shoes required. Suitable for beginners and all levels; basic instruction and practice included before setting out on the greenway.
Tiny Trekkers — On the Water
Friday, October 7th, 2022
10 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.
Col. Francis Beatty Park, 4330 Weddington Road, Matthews
Meck County reisident: $8; non-resident: $10
Ages 3-5
Get out on the water with your little one. Paddle the waters of Col. Francis Beatty Park in a stable, comfortable canoe. After basic instruction on land, you’ll have plenty of time to practice your strokes and explore the shoreline. This program is geared towards first-timers, but all skill levels are welcome.
Yoga at the Preserve
Saturdays, October 8th and 22nd, 2022
10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Stevens Creek
$7
Ages 10+
“Yoga is not just moving on the mat, it’s how you move through the world.” If you’ve hesitated to try yoga for any reason, this is your time to get on the mat. Certified instructor ‘Yogi Belle’ excels at guiding beginners of all ages and abilities through breathing techniques, introductory poses, and modifications. No equipment or experience is needed, just bring your body, mind and energy. Bring your own equipment (mat, block, etc.) or borrow from the nature center. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a water bottle. Unless weather permits, class is held indoors so please come prepared with a mask (required at all times while indoors.)
Gourd Instruments History and Craft
Saturday, October 8th, 2022
1 to 2:30 p.m.
Stevens Creek
Meck County resident: $7; non-resident: $8
All ages
Oh my gourd! Gourds have a long and honored history in many places around the world. Celebrate the fall and Latin/Hispanic Heritage Month by making a take-home instruments from a dried gourd, and hear their history from a Brazilian perceptive. This a family-friendly program, open to all ages but best suited for ages 8+.
Fall Birdwatching
Saturday, October 9th, 2022
8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
Stevens Creek
Free
Age 7+
As the weather gets colder, our beloved, winged friends begin their journey towards warmer weather. Which means new species are flying around Stevens Creek, so let’s see what we can spot. Using eyes and ears, we’ll identify fall migrants in the fields and forests of the preserve. All experience levels are welcome; bring your own binoculars or borrow the nature center’s. Pre-registration required for adults and children alike. Not a drop-off program; adult participation required. Bring your own binoculars or you can use binoculars provided by the nature center. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy hiking shoes; be prepared to walk 1-2 miles over easy-moderate natural surface trails.
Fall Crafternoon
Sunday, October 9th, 2022
2 to 3 p.m.
Stevens Creek
Free
All ages
Celebrate the bounty of fall – colorful leaves, prickly pinecones, bursting seeds pods – through art. We’ll provide a variety of natural materials for you to create your own nature mandala, necklace, or other nature- inspired craft. Appropriate for kids and adults alike; drop-in between 2pm-3pm.
Canvas Paint-Along
Sunday, October 9th, 2022
2 to 4 p.m.
Stevens Creek
Meck County resident: $7; Non-resident: $8
Ages 18+
Pull up a canvas and draw inspiration from the natural world around you. An instructor from the Mint Museum leads you through the process of painting a beautiful landscape. No prior experience necessary; all materials provided.
Nature at Night Week — Whoooo Dunnit?
Friday, October 14th, 2022
9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Stevens Creek
Free
All ages
Whooo dunnit? Was it the owl…or the bobcat…or maybe the coyote?? Drop in anytime today to find the clues and solve the mystery of the missing mouse. This self-directed scavenger hunt is open to all but geared towards children 10 and under.
*Search “Nature at Night” to view all the themed activities this week, leading up to the main event at McDowell Nature Center on October 15!
Fitness Hike
Saturday, October 22nd, 2022
1:30 to 3 p.m.
Quest – Latta
Free
Age 18+
Come to Latta Nature Preserve for a moderate paced fitness hike. We’ll push our limits by hiking out to Cove Trail and back! Plan to hike about 3 miles in 1.5 hours. Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and dress appropriately for the weather.
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