10+ free events coming up at Mecklenburg County Nature Centers and Preserves

Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation maintains three nature centers, Reedy Creek, Latta Plantation and McDowell. 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.

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
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 Plantation Nature Center

Latta Plantation Nature Center
6211 Sample Rd. Huntersville, NC 28078
Northern Mecklenburg County
704-875-1391
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 Plantation 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

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.

Other Nature Preserves

There are additional nature preserves that do not have nature centers. You can find a list of them here.

One of them, in Ballantyne, is Big Rock Nature Preserve. The video at the top of this post gives you a feel for how big those rocks are!

Upcoming free 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.

Owlet Nature Play Dates
The following Mondays
October 7th, 2019
October 14th, 2019
October 21st, 2019
October 28th, 2019
10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.
Free
Age 3-6

Get reconnected to nature, one another, and witness the wonder of child-led play and self-discovery. Every month will be a new theme and each day will be filled with hands-on experiences, nature hikes, songs and stories, and free play. Must call 980-314-1119 to register.

Hike for your Health
Every Tuesday through December 17th, 2019
5 p.m.
Reedy Creek
Free
Age 12+

Get outside, get moving and get healthy! Enjoy fresh air, sunshine and beautiful surroundings with like-minded people.

Tuesday Women’s Fitness
Tuesdays in October
9:30 a.m.
October 8th, 2019
October 15th, 2019
October 22nd, 2019
October 29th, 2019
Latta
Age 18+
Free

Suitable for all fitness levels! This class will often include speed walking along the trails with opportunities to learn about the nature we see. A typical class will include: a 15-minute warm up; 25-minute workout; 10-minute stretch; and 5-minute learning opportunity. All exercises will be in this timed format instead of numbered reps so you can always go at your own pace.

Evening Nature Stroll
Thursday, October 17th, 2019
6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Reedy Creek
Free

Take family night to the trails! Bring the gang out to explore the great outdoors with a Naturalist. This will be a slow paced hike with stops along the way to investigate our surroundings. All ages are welcome but you must be able to hike up to 2 miles on uneven terrain. Must call 980-314-1119 to register.
All Ages

Friday Morning Nature Hike
Friday, October 18th, 2019
9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Also taking place on:
October 25th
November 1
November 8
November 15
November 22
Latta
Free

Explore the nature preserve alongside a naturalist. Try different trails each week throughout the summer and explore the secrets hiding within the nature preserve. Be prepared to hike 2-3 miles. All Ages

Backpacking Basics
Saturday, November 16th, 2019
1 p.m.to 4 p.m.
Latta
Free

Planning a backpacking trip can be intimidating. Preparing for your trip is a process we can take in steps. Throughout this class, we’ll practice techniques for packing and fitting your pack, discuss what gear to bring and how to plan your route. Let’s plan your next backpacking trip together! Ages 21 and up.

National Take-A-Hike Day
Sunday, November 17th, 2019
2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Latta
Free

It’s time to hit the trail! National Take A Hike Day is November 17th, 2019, and the game is afoot. Visit Reedy, McDowell, or Latta Nature Preserves for a hike between November 17th and 30th. Then stop into the nature center to log your miles and pick up a prize (the center with the most miles logged wins bragging rights!) With over 25 miles of county trails and a plethora of guided hike options, you’re sure to find something to tempt you outside. All Ages.

Snake Feeding
Friday, November 22nd, 2019
2:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Latta
Free

It’s mealtime for the snakes. Come see what’s on the menu and learn how we keep our slithery friends healthy. All ages.

Build a Survival Shelter
Saturday, November 23rd, 2019
1:30 pm. to 3 p.m.
Latta
Free

Learn the survival skill of shelter building with your family. Work together using found materials to build a sturdy, weather-resistant shelter. Registration is required- call 980-314-1129 or sign up online. All Ages.

Birding Basics
Saturday, November 23rd, 2019
9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Latta
Free

Birdwatchers of all skill levels are welcome to enjoy the autumn morning at Cowan’s Ford Wildlife Refuge. Learn some new skills, practice the basics, or share your expertise! Binoculars and identification guides will be provided.

Saturday Crafternoon
Saturday, November 23rd, 2019
2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Reedy Creek
Free

Appreciate the natural world through arts and crafts! Each session will explore a different topic through a nature-inspired craft. Registration and parent attendance required. Must call 980-314-1119 to register. Ages 3 and up

Reptile Encounters
Sunday, November 24th, 2019
2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Latta
Free

Meet some of the nature center’s resident reptiles up close during one of these live animal shows. All Ages.

Black Friday Family Campfire
Friday, November 29th, 2019
1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Latta
Free

Opt outside and enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the nature preserve! Drop by for a marshmallow, a round of cornhole, or a splash in the leaf pile. Or better yet, grab a trail map and we’ll direct you to the perfect trail for your family to enjoy! We’ll roast marshmallows until they’re gone, but feel free to bring a picnic blanket, camp chair, snacks or non-alcoholic beverages of your own. All Ages

Walk Off the Turkey Hike
Friday, November 28th, 2019
10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Reedy Creek
Free

Thanksgiving is over and we are all feeling a little “stuffed!” No worries though as you can walk it off on the trails as you take in the sights and sounds. Must be able to walk 1-2 miles. Must call 980-314-1119 to register.
Ages 8 and up

Post-Thanksgiving Fitness Hike
Saturday, November 30th, 2019
10 a.m.
Latta
Free

Still waking up from your Thanksgiving food coma? Take a brisk hike through some of Latta Nature Preserve’s more challenging trails to get your body moving again.

Meet in front of Latta Nature Center. Ages 12 and up.

Make Woodland Ornaments
Saturday, December 7th, 2019
10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Reedy Creek
Free

Reedy Creek Nature Preserve is home to many critters! Celebrate them by making a wood cookie ornament! Each participant will have the opportunity to paint an animal and attach it to a wood cookie that has the Reedy Creek Logo on the back. You then get to take home a cute Reedy Creek ornament to decorate your tree or just hang it in a window! Drop-In to the Nature Center anytime between 10am-noon. Must call 980-314-1119 to register.
Ages 2 and up