Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation maintains three nature centers, Reedy Creek, Latta and McDowell. Steven’s Creek Nature Center is opening soon, but is already hosting some activities (see below.) 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.
Scroll down for a list of upcoming list events.
NOTE: The nature centers are temporarily closed.
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.
Reedy Creek Nature Center
Reedy Creek Nature Center
Reedy Creek Nature Center
2900 Rocky River Rd. Charlotte, NC 28215
Northeastern Mecklenburg County
980-314-1119
Mon – Sat 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sun 1 p.m. – 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.
Latta Nature Center
Latta Nature Center
6211 Sample Rd. Huntersville, NC 28078
Northern Mecklenburg County
980-314-1129
Mon – Sat 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sun 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The Nature Center features live, native animals, a discovery hall, an outdoor amphitheater, 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, garden pond, and demonstration compost area. Self-interpretive trail guides are available for several nature preserve trails.
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.
Also of interest, adjacent to the nature preserve (same entrance from Sample Road) is Historic Latta Plantation, a living history attraction, and Carolina Raptor Center, a rehabilitation center for injured birds of prey, as well as an education center where the community can learn about these birds.
McDowell Nature Center
15222 South York Rd, Charlotte, NC 28278
Southwestern Mecklenburg County
980-314-1128
Mon – Sat 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sun 1 p.m. – 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.
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.
Steven’s Creek Nature Center
15700 Thompson Road, Mint Hill, NC 28227
980-314-2526
Mecklenburg County’s newest nature center will be coming to Steven’s Creek Nature Preserve. Although it’s not open yet, it will be hosting some activities, mostly outside. See some of them below.
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
Visit the Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Nature Centers’ Facebook page to see 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, follow the link for the event or call the phone number for the nature center.
Friday Hike
Fridays, through September 25th, 2020
9 a.m.
Latta
Free
Our nature preserves are biodiverse with everything from ferns to piedmont prairie flowers. Come hike with a naturalist and explore our trails where we will identify different plants and gather a greater understanding of the importance of our preserve. Registration is required to maintain maximum group size.
Monday Fitness
Mondays, through September 28th, 2020
9 a.m.
Latta
Free
Age 18+
Exercising in nature provides so many extra benefits to your mental and physical health! So if you’re ready to step it up, let us help you get started on the trail. Each week’s workout will be slightly different, but you’ll always be able to set your goals and take it at your own pace. Registration is required to maintain maximum group size.
Nature PE Class
Thursdays in October and November, 2020, except Thanksgiving Day
3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Reedy Creek
Free
Age 6-10
Kids need more time moving outdoors? Take a break from the screen, stretch your legs, and get some fresh air every Thursday in October and November at Reedy Creek Nature Center! Nature PE will get kids ages 6-10 hiking, playing active games and exercising while following social distancing guidelines.
Plan to play Rain or Shine. No class on Thanksgiving.
Hike for your Health
Tuesday through September 29th, 2020
6 p.m.
Reedy Creek
Free
Age 12+
FB event for September 15
FB event for September 22
FB event for September 29
Get outside, get moving and get healthy! Enjoy fresh air, sunshine and beautiful surroundings with like-minded people. Must register.
Nature Exploration Stroll
Thursday, September 17th and 24th, 2020
9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Reedy Creek
Free
All ages
FB event for September 17th
FB event for September 24th
Nature provides many lessons for our heads and our hearts. Discover the magical world around you as we stroll through the trails together! This will be a slow-paced hike focusing on the flora and fauna surrounding us. Must be able to walk up to 3 miles on uneven terrain. Meet at parking lot kiosk in front of Reedy Creek Nature Center. Must register in advance.
Woodland Wanderers at Reedy Creek Nature Preserve
Friday, September 25th, 2020
9:30 p.m. to 11 a.m.
Reedy Creek
Free
Age 16+
A wanderer is a person who travels aimlessly. Going into the woods with an aimless intent is good for the soul! These special journeys will have us exploring various woods in and around Charlotte. Must be able to hike up to 6 miles on uneven terrain. Must register in advance at http://apm.activecommunities.com/mecklenburgparks/Activity_Search/109268
Little Critter Play Days
Friday, October 2, 16 and 30, 2020
1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Steven’s Creek
$5
Ages 4 to 6
Reading fun and nature exploration combine during this 2-hour drop-off program. Each day begins with an engaging children’s book, then your young explorer will strike out on an adventure inspired by the plot. Each program is different. Pre-registration required.
Call 980-314-2526 or search for activity here to register online. Pre-registration required 48 hours in advance. This is a drop-off program; drop-off paperwork is required. Masks required for portions of this program. Families with older children ages 7-9 may be interested in Adventure Kids Play Days, happening concurrently.
Adventure Kids Play Days
Friday, October 2, 16 and 30, 2020
1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Steven’s Creek
$5
Ages 7 to 9
“I just want to go outside and have fun!” Well, grab a friend or two for a child-led adventure in nature. Whether you want to hike and explore, build a stick fort, or simply run around in the woods, you’ll have an EXTRAordinary time. Pre-registration is required.
Call 980-314-2526 or search for activity here to register online. Pre-registration required 48 hours in advance. This is a drop-off program; drop-off paperwork is required. Masks required for portions of this program. Families with younger children ages 4-6 may be interested in Little Critter Play Days, happening concurrently.
BYO Bike Greenway Ride
Sunday, October 4 and 18, 2020
10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Steven’s Creek
Free
Age 5+ (any confident bike rider)
Register for October 4th
Register for October 18th
When was the last time you went for a bike ride along Mecklenburg’s Greenway system? Whether it was just last week or just last year, discover how our Greenways connect our community while protecting our creeks and wildlife habitat. This leisurely ride is suited for confident bike riders of all ages. Pre-registration required. Call 980-314-2526. Notes: Pre-registration required 48 hours in advance of each program. Participants must bring their own bikes and helmets.
Nighttime Scavenger Hunt
Sunday, October 11, 2020
7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
$7
Ages 3 and up
On your mark, get set, GLOW! Begin at the nature center to grab your scavenger hunt booklet and supplies (including a blacklight flashlight), then venture into the dark to complete the glow-in-the-dark challenges. Family fun, giveaways and s’mores around the campfire make for a perfect fall evening. Pre-registration required. Call 980-314-2526.
Pre-registration required for each participant ages 3+ (free under 2 years); registration closes 48 hours in advance. Masks required for ages 5+ during parts of the program. Plan to walk around in the semi-darkness on pavement and natural trails. Rain date: October 25, 2020.
Reptile Awareness Day
Thursday, October 22, 2020
1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Steven’s Creek
Free
All ages
Reptiles are RAD — drop by anytime from 1-3 p.m. to find out why! Touch a snake, find out why the turtle crossed the road, and learn how some lizards lose and regrow their tails as we celebrate these spectacular, scaly creatures. Pre-registration encouraged. Call 980-314-2526. Drop-ins allowed based on maximum capacity. Masks are required for ages 5+.
SCNP Creek Yo’ Self: Water Colors and Water Quality
Thursday, October 22, 2020
5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
$5
Age 18+
Playing in streams isn’t just fun for kids – grown-ups, here’s your chance to feel the cool waters of Stevens Creek rush past your toes. As you uncover and capture concealed aquatic creatures, the connections between water quality and quality of life in our community become clear. After warming up in the nature center with a mug of hot coffee or tea, we’ll use water from the creek to create watercolor masterpieces. No experience needed; perfect for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts and artists Pre-registration required. Pre-registration required 48 hours in advance of program. Masks required for portions of the program.
Double-Check Before You Head Out!
We make every effort to make sure that everything on Charlotte on the Cheap is 100% accurate.
However, sometimes things change without notice, and it's also possible that we can make a mistake. In addition, we can not guarantee that all events adhere to the safety measures that are necessary at this time, so we encourage you to ask any questions of the organizer, to make your best decision, and to stay safe.
Please verify all deals and events with the venue or organizer before you go.
You might also be interested in:
Upcoming Events in the Charlotte area -- both virtual and in-person
Check out our full events calendar, where you can enter any date, or look at the events for the next few days here:Wednesday, September 30, 2020
Thursday, October 1, 2020
Friday, October 2, 2020
Reedy Creek Nature Center and Preserve
2900 Rocky River Road
Charlotte, NC 980-314-1119
Steven’s Creek Nature Preserve and Center
15700 Thompson Road
Mint Hill, NC
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