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.
If you landed on this page because of an event on the Charlotte on the Cheap calendar, make sure that you read the information about the event and click on the link that goes to the Mecklenburg Count Park and Recreation registration page. Jump to the list of events for details on each one. Or read on to learn about the various nature centers.
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.
Stevens Creek
International Migratory Bird Day Hike
Sunday, May 14, 2023
8 to 10 a.m.
Stevens Creek
Free (register)
All ages
Search high and low for spring migrants on International Migratory Bird Day. Practice identifying birds by sight and sound, and chat about why migrants, such as American Redstart and Northern Parulas, are returning to the Charlotte area. This slow-paced birding hike is open to all levels; bring your own binoculars or borrow a pair.
World Otter Day
Sunday, May 28, 2023
2 to 3 p.m.
Stevens Creek
Free (register)
Ages 4+
Otters have been sighted in the Mint Hill area – have you ever spotted one? On World Otter Day, view a taxidermy otter up close (no live otters) to explore the unique adaptations these aquatic mammals use to survive. Understand the important role they play in our local environment and what you can do to help.
SCNP: The Natural Year in Photos
The third Saturday of the month, November 19th, 2022, to October 21st, 2023
9 to 10:30 a.m.
Stevens Creek
Free (register)
Ages 13+
Discover Stevens Creek Nature Preserve through your camera lens and notice how it changes over a full year. Each month’s photo hike includes stops at 2 designated locations to follow the changing seasons, plus opportunities to explore on and off trail to capture what’s blooming, crawling, and calling in the preserve. This slow-paced, relaxed series is open to all levels of photographers, and any kind of camera – smart phone, point-and-shoot, DSLR – can be used to create beautiful shots.
Letterboxing
Saturday, June 3, 2023
10 to 11:30 a.m.
Stevens Creek
Free (register)
Ages 5+
Letterboxing is a treasure hunt adventure that uses your artistic creativity in parks, nature preserves, and even your neighborhood. Participants seek out hidden containers by following clues to their prize: a rubber stamp (sometimes hand carved) to stamp into one’s personal logbook. Test out this unique outdoor challenge while exploring the trails of Stevens Creek Nature Preserve.
Full Moon Hike — Strawberry Moon
Saturday, June 3, 2023
9 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Stevens Creek
$5 for residents; $6 for non-residents
Ages 18+
Full Moon Hikes are back! If you’re familiar with the trails, you’ll be amazed how different they are at night. Explore by the light of June’s full “Strawberry Moon” and dig deeper into this moon’s namesake.
Summer Creek Crawl Series
2nd and 4th Saturday of month, from June to August, 2023
10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Free (register)
Ages 4+
Splash through the cool creek water, dip-net for macroinvertebrates, and uncover the mysteries of Stevens Creek’s aquatic ecosystem. This educator-led creek crawl is heat-beating fun for all ages. Choose one day or come to multiple – there’s always something new to discover!
Pre-registration highly suggested; walk-ins taken if not full for up to a maximum of 12. Register total number of participants, including children 4+ and adults (not suitable for children under 4). Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Wear clothes that can get wet and dirty, and closed-toed shoes that can get wet. Old sneakers with socks are best, or aqua-type shoes. Flip flops and crocs are not allowed for safety. Bring a change of shoes and clothes, water bottle and snacks as desired.
Full Moon Hike — Buck Moon
Saturday, July 3, 2023
9 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Stevens Creek
$5 for residents; $6 for non-residents
Ages 18+
Full Moon Hikes are back! If you’re familiar with the trails, you’ll be amazed how different they are at night. Explore by the light of June’s full “Buck Moon” and dig deeper into this moon’s namesake.
Animal Behavior — Snake Files
Saturday, July 15, 2023
10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Stevens
Free (register)
Ages 10+
Ever wonder what’s going on behind those unblinking eyes? Familiarize yourself with one of nature’s most misunderstood creatures through the universal language of behavioral biology.
Summer Bird Parade — Create Bird Masks and Wings
Sunday, July 30, 2023
2 to 3 p.m.
Stevens
$7 for residents, $8 for non-residents
Kids ages 5+
Live the life of a colorful summer bird – craft customized mask and wings, then give your best bird performance during the mini parade. Feathered fun for the whole family!
Super Mario Geocaching
Saturday, August 12, 2023
10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Stevens
Free (register)
Ages 5+
It’s me, Mario! Let’s go geocaching the Super Mario way! Help me and my brother, Luigi, defeat the evil Koopa General, Bowser, and save Princess Peach. Using a handheld GPS unit, navigate Rainbow Road to get to Mushroom Kingdom but look out for hazards along the way. This is a fun family adventure and parents are required to stay (and help defeat Bowser)
World Lizard Day
Saturday, August 19, 2023
2 to 3 p.m.
Stevens
Free (register)
Ages 4+
Do you know where most lizards get their water? Or which native lizards can change colors? Plunge into the world of lizards – from their ‘3rd eye’ to their regenerating tails, lizards are worthy of a celebration and admiration.
International Bat Night
Saturday, August 26, 2023
7 to 8:30 p.m.
Stevens
$5 for residents, $6 for non-residents
All ages
Why do bats sleep upside down? How can they fly and hunt in the dark? Meet up with your fellow bat-lovers as we celebrate the only mammals capable of flight. After activities in the nature center, we’ll head out into the preserve to explore for native bats in flight.
Full Moon Hike — Once in a Blue Moon
Thursday, August 31, 2023
9 to 10:30 p.m.
Stevens
$5 for residents, $6 for non-residents
Ages 18+
Full Moon Hikes are back! If you’re familiar with the trails, you’ll be amazed how different they are at night. Explore by the light of August’s 2nd full moon, a “Blue Moon”.
McDowell
Adult Trail Trekkers
Tuesdays, May 16 and 23: 1 to 2:30 p.m.
June 13, 20, 27, 2023: 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
McDowell
Free (register)
Age 18+
Get active in nature with a McDowell Naturalist during this adult-only hike. Pre-registration required.
Kids Hiking Club
Fridays: May 19, June 23, July 28, August 25, 2023
9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
McDowell
Ages 8-13
Free (register)
Hey kids, get outside and enjoy your morning with the Kids Hiking Club! This group will meet monthly and explore McDowell Nature Preserve. All kids will receive a trail passport and a 100 mile hike club card to document their trail journeys and collect prizes along the way. This is a drop off program with a staff member and 1-2 parent chaperones. This is a drop off program. Adult participation not required. Pre-registration required.
Animal Ambassador Meet ‘n’ Greet
Sundays, April 23rd, and Sundays, June 4 to August 27, 2023
3 to 3:30 p.m.
McDowell
Free (register)
All ages
Head over to the McDowell Nature Center for a close-up encounter with one of the live animal ambassadors! Discover fun facts about the animals’ adaptations and everyday life out in the wild! Pre-registration required (for adult and child alike).
Animal Ambassador Meet ‘n’ Greet
Sundays, May 28, 2023
2 to 2:30 p.m., and 4 to 4:30 p.m.
McDowell
Free (register)
All ages
Head over to the McDowell Nature Center for a close-up encounter with one of the live animal ambassadors! Discover fun facts about the animals’ adaptations and everyday life out in the wild! Pre-registration required (for adult and child alike).
Photography Hike
Saturday, May 13, 2023
2 to 3:30 p.m.
McDowell
Free (register)
Ages 18+
Enjoy a hike guided by a naturalist from the McDowell Nature Center on one of the preserves scenic trails. This hike will have many opportunities to pause and photograph what the preserve has to offer such as plants, trees, Lake Wylie, and wild animals that call the preserve home.
Pre-registration is required.
Nature Book and Look
Mondays, through May 22, 2023
Mondays, June 12, July 3, July 10, July 17, July 24, 2023
All Mondays in August, 2023
10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
McDowell
Free (register)
All ages
Journey through a nature BOOK and take a LOOK at the nature around us with a hike, hands-on activity, or a craft. Pre-registration required for adult & child alike.
Nature Hike
Friday, May 12, 2023
Friday, June 2, 2023
Friday, July 14, 2023
Friday, August 11, 2023
10 to 11:30 a.m.
McDowell
Free (register)
All ages
Enjoy a morning hike with the family at McDowell Nature Preserve. This hike will be on uneven terrain and will be approximately 2 miles. If bringing small children’s strollers are not advised. Pre-registration required (for child and adult alike).
Mommy & Me: Afternoon of Art
Sunday, May 14, 2023
2 to 4 p.m.
McDowell
Free (no registration)
All ages
Drop-in to the McDowell Nature Center between 2pm and 4pm to engage in an afternoon of creativity to celebrate Mother’s Day! A variety of nature craft materials will be provided to spend
some quality time with your loved ones and get in touch with your artistic side this holiday! Pre-registration is not required as this is a drop-in program.
Fun With Fishing
Saturday, May 27, 2023
10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
McDowell
Free (no registration required)
All ages
McDowell Nature Preserve will be hosting a one-day event on May 27th as part of the National Fishing and Boating Week 2023. From 10am-2:30pm we will have access to our Red Fox Shelter and surrounding area for anglers to fish for free, no license required. Experienced and new anglers alike will check in with staff at the Red Fox Shelter to participate under our license waiver. No tackle? No problem! Bring your own bait and gear, or simply borrow our poles and tackle on a FIRST COME FIRST SERVE basis. Please note, you will need a driver’s license or ID to borrow our equipment as part of our Tackle Loaner Program. Pre-Registration is NOT required. This is NOT a drop off program. Adult participation required.
Reedy Creek
Hike for your Health
Tuesdays, May 16 to 30, 2023
Tuesdays, June 13 to 27, 2023
Tuesdays, July 3 to 25, 2023
5 to 6:30 p.m.
Reedy Creek
Free (register)
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.
Outdoor Women Hiking Group
Saturdays, May 13, June 10, July 8, 2023
10 to 11 a.m.
Reedy Creek
Free (register)
Age 18+
Gather with other women who enjoy the outdoors and hiking. We will The group will hike approximately 2 miles of Reedy Creek trails.
New Moon Hike and Fire
Friday, May 19, 2023
7 to 9 p.m.
Free
Age 14+
The New Moon is a great time to find connection and set intentions. There is no better place to do so than in nature! Discover the possibilities on a stroll along the trails before coming together to enjoy a fire. We will hike around 2 miles and then settle in around a fire and enjoy some marshmallows and community time together. Adult participation required if under 18.
Latta (Quest)
Little Critters Storytime
Fridays, May 12 and 25, June 9 and 23, July 7 and 21, August 4 and 18, 2023
10:30 to 11:15 a.m.
Quest (Latta)
Free (register)
Ages 3-6
Explore the natural world through stories and exciting activities! Listen to a fun story about nature and then get hands on with a game, craft, or maybe even a live animal encounter! Registration required.
Trails and Tails
Saturday, May 13, 2023
9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Latta
Free (register)
All ages
Have a K-9 companion? Want to meet other dog lovers in Mecklenburg County? Together with our “Tails” we will hit the “Trails”. Each month we will meet at different parks, preserves or greenways around the Charlotte area. Please call Chad Moore at 980-314-1565 for more information.
Friday Morning Nature Hike
Fridays from May 19 to June 30, 2023
9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Latta (various starting locations)
Free (register)
Ages 14+
Enjoy a moderate paced hike as you search for the early signs of Spring at Latta Nature Preserve and learn about the flora and fauna that make this place home. Be prepared to hike up to 4 miles in two hours. Hike will start no later than 9:05am at a new location each time.
Animal Meet & Greet
Saturday, June 3 and 24, 2023
10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Quest (Latta)
Free (register)
All ages
Get up close and personal with some of the Nature Center residents in this wild encounter! You might meet a snake, turtle or even something slimy.
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