McDowell Nature Center and Preserve 
15222 York Rd.
Charlotte, NC 28278
704-588-5224
https://www.mecknc.gov/parkandrec/stewardshipservices/naturecenters/pages/mcdowell.aspx?redirect=charmeck
Nature Center: Bike, Camp, Fish, Picnic, Walk, Water Sports
McDowell Nature Center serves as the gateway to the 1108-acre McDowell Nature Preserve and is the source for educational programs and information on the preserve’s natural communities, flora, and fauna. The preserve, the oldest in Mecklenburg County, has been left 90% undeveloped and protects mostly forested, rolling terrain along the banks of Lake Wylie.