We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.
We support the following browsers:
Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox. Mac: Safari.
All 75 Charlotte Attractions »

McDowell Nature Center and Preserve

15222 York Road, Charlotte, NC 28278
(704) 583-1284
Ranked #11 of 54 attractions in Charlotte
5.0 of 5 stars 9 Reviews
Type: Nature/ Wildlife Areas
Most recent review
- May 23, 2012
Update attraction details
Write a Review

9 reviews from our community

Visitor rating
    7
    2
    0
    0
    0
Date Rating
Ruther Glen, Virginia
Reviewer
5 reviews 5 reviews
5 of 5 stars Reviewed May 23, 2012 NEW

Took my son and nephew for tent camping. Very well organized and pleasant. Good place for little kids - playground right in the campsite. Nice trails. Took a little work to find where to make reservations. The first number I called said you had to make them 5 days in advance. The second lady said no and made our reservations... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Charlotte, North Carolina
Reviewer
4 reviews 4 reviews
1 helpful vote 1 helpful vote
4 of 5 stars Reviewed May 20, 2012

Great playground, great animal exhibit, excellent view of lake wyle More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Charlotte, NC
Contributor
13 reviews 13 reviews
3 helpful votes 3 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed May 18, 2012

McDowell is one of those places near the city but once you hit the trails you feel like you are in the mountains. The trails have a lot of tree roots and a few rocks, and lots of elevation here and there, so you do need hiking boots to travel this one. There are also camping facilities and believe it... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Charlotte, North Carolina
Contributor
20 reviews 20 reviews
21 helpful votes 21 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed May 18, 2012

Great for a quick get away & last minute camping here in Charlotte. Wonderful family friendly events all year! More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Charlotte, North Carolina
Contributor
13 reviews 13 reviews
4 helpful votes 4 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed March 27, 2012

Great spot to Kayak, Bike fish and camp. There a few campsites in Charlotte that can match McDowell Park. Some of the sites even have docks for your kayak or small boats. More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Charlotte, North Carolina
Contributor
15 reviews 15 reviews
6 helpful votes 6 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed February 17, 2012
1
person found this review helpful

I have hiked here with my husband, family, and dog on multiple occasions and always look forward to returning. This nature preserve is open year round, is well maintained and has excellent service facilities and amenities. There are marked trails and maps provided for way-finding throughout the property. Picnic and playground areas are available, conveniently alongside nicely kept bathrooms. I... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Charlotte, North Carolina
Top Contributor
50 reviews 50 reviews
22 helpful votes 22 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed January 31, 2012

We have been there in many occasions. It has wonderful trails and places to camp or grill. More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Mount Pleasant, South Carolina
Top Contributor
84 reviews 84 reviews
24 helpful votes 24 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed December 15, 2011

Great views of the city. Several trails offered with varying lengths. More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Virginia
Senior Contributor
33 reviews 33 reviews
58 helpful votes 58 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed December 9, 2010
5
people found this review helpful

The preserve encompasses 1108 acres of forested, rolling terrain along the banks of Lake Wylie and a cove thereof. Over 90% of the preserve has been left undeveloped and offers terrific wildlife viewing and walking trails. The nature center served as a gateway with a trail map inside and housed exhibits with a variety of informative displays on the preserve's... More

Was this review helpful? Yes

Travelers who viewed McDowell Nature Center and Preserve also viewed

US National Whitewater Center
4.5 of 5 stars 196 Reviews
Charlotte, NC
Discovery Place
4.5 of 5 stars 154 Reviews
Charlotte, NC
 
Mint Museum Uptown
4.5 of 5 stars 25 Reviews
Charlotte, NC
Metalmorphosis
4.5 of 5 stars 9 Reviews
Charlotte, NC
 

Been to McDowell Nature Center and Preserve? Share your experiences!

Write a Review Add Photos Add Videos

Owners: What's your side of the story?

If you own or manage McDowell Nature Center and Preserve, register now for free tools to enhance your listing, attract new reviews, and respond to reviewers.

Manage your listing
See all sites
Cruise Critic

The ultimate cruise resource: cruise reviews, deals, news and advice.

SeatGuru

The world's most comprehensive source for airline seats, airline info, & in-flight amenities.

Family Vacation Critic

The best family vacations start here.

Best beach houses of 2012 »