McDowell Nature Preserve

McDowell Nature Preserve spans 1,108 acres of forest terrain along Lake Wylie, featuring diverse landscapes with native trees, ponds, and interconnected hiking trails.

The preserve, established as the first protected area in Mecklenburg County, transformed from agricultural land into a conservation zone maintaining 90% of undeveloped space.

The Nature Center operates educational programs throughout the year, teaching visitors about local ecosystems through guided walks and interactive wildlife exhibitions.

Visitors can access the preserve from sunrise to sunset via York Road, with multiple entry points leading to well-maintained paths suitable for hiking and nature observation.

The preserve protects the Schweinitz's sunflower, a federally endangered plant species, and provides habitat for 119 bird species and 21 different mammal species.

Location: Mecklenburg County

Operator: Mecklenburg County Park & Rec

Address: South York Road

Opening Hours: sunrise-sunset

Phone: +19803141128

Website: https://mecknc.gov/ParkandRec/StewardshipServices/NatureCenters/Pages/McDowell.aspx

GPS coordinates: 35.10603,-81.01699

Latest update: March 11, 2025 12:42