McDowell Nature Preserve and Center

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Have you ever longed to wander into another world to get that far away feeling, while staying close to home? Then, is just the place. There the visitor will find an array of experiences on land and water, in and out of the woods.



McDowell Nature Preserve can be either a wonderful day escape or a camping destination for a weekend or longer. The park offers visitors an array of opportunities: camping, hiking, geocaching, and over 11,000 acres of exploration on land and/or water. With great indoor and outdoor amenities, the choice is up to you!


Campers may choose among sites suited for small campers, conversion vans, RVs and tent camping. Water and electric hook-ups are available, as well as a bathhouse, laundry, a camp store and wonderful playground. Reservations are required in advance. Check in at 3PM. Check out at noon. Campers will be required to strictly follow the rules regarding such situations as quiet hours, set up and take down, fires, fireworks, torches, alcohol and dumping. The park is friendly to leashed dogs.



Upon arrival - or once you've settled in at the campgrounds - take advantage of the Nature Center. There you will learn about the history of the area – McDowell is the oldest nature preserve along Lake Wylie. Friendly informed staff will answer questions and offer input on all things McDowell: the forest, terrain, birds and other life on site (119 or more bird species, as many as 21 types of mammals and reptiles, and at least 14 different amphibians).



And while you're there, take some time to ask the Nature Center staff about accessibility around the park, especially identifying challenging or easier hikes best suited for taking in the natural environment. And, be sure to inquire further, should you wish to access Lake Wylie for paddling and kayaking, etc. Select the experiences that suit you best and linger along the way to gather information about very special aspects of the park, such as their important bee programming and water conservation efforts. Have a wonderful escape from the ordinary!


McDowell Nature Center is located at 15222 York Road, Charlotte, NC 28278. The park is credentialed by the North Carolina Association of Environmental Education, is a Certified Wildlife Habitat and a member of the National Wildlife Federation.

Mecklenburg County is home to over 200 parks encompassing thousands of acres. For more information and direct contact, call 980-314-1000 between 8AM and 5PM.

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