STEELE CREEK NEWS

March and Summer Camp Programs at McDowell Nature Center

(February 3, 2019) The McDowell Nature Center and Preserve offers a wide variety of programs for adults, children, and families. Listed below are programs for March as well as Summer Camps. To sign up or for more information, go to the Activity Search web page and check off "McDowell Nature Preserve" under location.

Program name: Preschool Explorers
Dates of Program: March 1, 2019 – Theme – Winter Trees – Friday
March 14 and 15, 2019 – Theme – Geocaching – Thursday & Friday
March 28 and 29, 2019 – Theme – Creek Week – Thursday & Friday
Times of program: 10:00am to 10:45am and 11:00am to 11:45am

Price: $4.00
Ages: 2 to 5

Description of program Little ones and adults discover nature together through crafts, games, songs, animal encounters and outdoor exploration. Choose one time-slot per week/theme. Winter Trees is (Friday only) or Geocaching or Creek Week. Meet, touch and give your favorite animal a special treat. Pre-registration is required.

Notes: Parent participation required. Please plan to arrive early to get settled and be ready by program start time.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: Explore the Carolinas
Date of Program: March 2, 2019 - Saturday
Time of program: 8:00am to 6:00pm

Price: $14.00
Ages: 18 and up

Description of program: Adventure is out there!! Spend the day exploring and discovering new places in the Carolinas. Trips will all be within 2 hours of Charlotte. Meet at McDowell Nature Center for all trips and ride in a van to the destination of the day. The first Saturday of each month will take us to a new spot to explore. This month: Uwharrie National Forest. Pre-Registration is required.

Notes: This hike qualifies for our 100 mile hike club. Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. Please bring your own lunch, snacks and water bottle.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: Project WET Educator Training
Date of Program: March 2, 2019 - Saturday
Time of program: 9:00am to 3:30pm

Price: $25.00
Ages: 18 and up

Description of program: Project WET is a water-based curriculum aligned with NC NCDPI Science, Math, ELA, and S.S standards. This interdisciplinary curriculum will allow teachers to incorporate water literacy throughout the year with fun, interactive, and a unique approach to understanding how we manage water resources. For more information visit www.projectwet.org. Please note: to receive the curriculum guide and credit for the workshop, you must be present for the entire time.
Pre-Registration is required.

Notes: Please dress to get dirty/wet or bring a change of clothes and shoes. Light refreshments and snacks will be provided.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: Severe Weather Preparedness Week
Date of Program: March 4 - 8, 2019 – Monday to Friday
Time of program: 9:00am to 4:30pm

Price: Free
Ages: 5 and up

Description of program: Are you prepared for all the types of severe weather that could affect our area? Become prepared and more knowledgeable about severe weather at our week-long table display. No pre-registration required (NOTE: all other programs require pre-registration).

Notes: This is a drop-in program March 4-8 Monday-Friday 9am-4:30pm.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: Volunteer Opportunities w/Mecklenburg County
Date of Program: March 5, 2019 - Tuesday
Time of program: 6:00pm to 7:00pm

Price: Free
Ages: 18 and up

Description of program: Learn about volunteer opportunities at the 3 nature centers. Pre-registration is required.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: Night Hike
Date of Program: March 6, 2019 - Wednesday
Time of program: 6:30pm to 8:00pm

Price: Free
Ages: 5 and up

Description of program: Explore and listen for nocturnal animals in the preserve on this night hike! Learn about animal eye and hearing adaptations while enjoying the preserve after dark.
Pre-registration required (for all participants, adult and child alike).

Notes: This hike qualifies for our 100 mile hike club. Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. We will be hiking approximately 2-3 miles on uneven terrain. Please bring your own water bottle.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: Nature Exploratorium
Date of Program: March 8, 2019 - Friday
Time of program: 3:30pm to 4:30pm

Price: Free
Ages: 6 to 11

Description of program: Active play builds happy kids! Hike deep into wild at McDowell Nature Preserve to find new and unexplored areas for fun and adventure. Participants will create games and activities while learning from nature. What will you discover? Pre-registration required.

Notes: This is not a drop-off program. Parent participation required. Come prepared to hike no more than 1 mile on uneven terrain and to get messy! Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and weather-appropriate, comfortable clothing. Please bring your own water bottle.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: Invasive Plant Removal Work Day
Date of Program: March 9, 2019 - Saturday
Time of program: 1:00pm to 4:00pm

Price: Free
Ages: 12 and up

Description of program: Wanted: Elaeagnus sp. Also known as Silverberry.
Reward: Protection of McDowell Nature Preserves native species and natural communities.
Meet the staff at McDowell Nature Center to connect with people and nature all while making a positive difference in the community by removing invasive plant species. Pre-registration required (for all participants, adult and child alike).

Notes: Come prepared to cut down small shrubs with provided hand tools. Please bring your own sunscreen, bug spray and water bottle. Dress appropriately to be working outdoors for 3 hours.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: Weed Warriors: Invasive Crafting
Date of Program: March 10, 2019 - Sunday
Time of program: 2:00pm to 4:00pm

Price: Free
Ages: 18 and up

Description of program: What can you do with all your invasive trimmings from English Ivy to Autumn Olive? Make beautiful crafts! Learn how to use invasive species in a crafty way after removal to decorate your home. This drop-in program will have several ideas and materials you can use to make a beautiful creation to take home and learn about invasive species while doing it.
No pre-registration required (NOTE: all other programs require registration).

Notes: This is an adults only crafting class because of the nature of materials used. Dress to get messy!

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: Adult Hiking Series: Congaree Trip
Date of Program: March 12, 2019 – Tuesday
Time of program: 9:00am to 5:00pm

Price: $14.00
Ages: 18 and up

Description of program Get up and get active with a McDowell Naturalist during this day long, special edition adult hike at Congaree National Park. Travel to Congaree National Park in South Carolina and hike through the largest old growth bottomland hardwood forest left in the US. We will also explore the Visitors' Center to learn about the diverse flora and fauna of this unique environment. Pre-registration required.

Notes: This hike qualifies for our 100 mile hike club. Come prepared to hike approximately 2 to 3 miles on uneven terrain. Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and weather-appropriate, comfortable clothing. Please bring your own water bottle. We will meet at 9am and return by 5pm. Please bring bag lunches/snacks/water bottle to have a picnic in the park.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: End of Winter Kayak Tour
Date of Program: March 13, 2019 - Wednesday
Time of program: 6:00pm to 8:00pm

Prices: $20.00
Ages: 18 and up

Description of program: Paddle away the winter blues while enjoying the transition of winter to spring during this 2-hour kayak tour. We will explore the edges of McDowell Nature Preserve along the shores of Lake Wylie in search of wildlife such as green herons, kingfishers, and possibly even beaver. Pre-registration required.

Notes: Please dress appropriately for the weather. Bring your own water bottle, towel and extra clothes.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: St. Patrick’s Day Treasure Hunt
Date of Program: March 16, 2019 - Saturday
Time of program: 10:00am to 4:00pm

Price: Free
Ages: All Ages

Description of program: Test your natural knowledge as you follow the Leprechaun's clues through the woods to find the hidden treasure. This self-guided treasure hunt requires only a sturdy pair of shoes and your brain. Meet at the Nature Center for your first clue and may the luck of the Irish be with you! Drop-in's welcome; activity is ongoing. No pre-registration required (NOTE: all other programs require registration).

Notes: Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and weather-appropriate, comfortable clothing. Please bring your own water bottle. Meet at the nature center for your first clue!

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: McDowell Sunday Striders
Date of Program: March 17, 2019 – Sunday
Time of program: 1:00pm to 2:00pm

Price: Free
Ages: 18 and up

Description of program: Enjoy the great outdoors while getting fit as we set off at a comfortable, yet steady pace through the nature preserve. Open to novice and skilled hikers alike, this adult hiking club will cover 2-3 miles on uneven terrain. Pre-registration is required.

Notes: This hike qualifies for our 100 mile hike club. Come prepared to hike approximately 2 to 3 miles on uneven terrain. Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and weather-appropriate, comfortable clothing. Please bring your own water bottle.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: Family Scavenger Hunt
Date of Program: March 17, 2019 – Sunday
Time of program: 3:00pm to 4:00pm

Price: Free
Ages: All Ages

Description of program: Families will explore spring wildflowers in the nature preserve during this self-led scavenger hunt. Compete for prizes and learn about nature while getting fit and exploring the preserve's trails. No pre-registration required (NOTE: all other programs require
pre-registration).

Notes: Parent participation required. This is a drop-in program. Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: Global Recycling Day: Recycling Center Field Trip
Date of Program: March 18, 2019 – Monday
Time of program: 12:45pm to 3:15pm

Price: $8.00
Ages: 8 and up

Description of program: Have you ever wondered where your recyclables go? In celebration of Global Recycling Day, take a trip to our local Mecklenburg County Recycling Center. Discover how recyclables are sorted, processed, and find out what they will become once remade. This program is designed for kids but adults who attend must register. Pre-registration required (for all participants, adult and child alike).

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: Natural Happenings: Wildflowers
Date of Program: March 24, 2019 - Sunday
Time of program: 2:00pm to 3:30pm

Price: $4.00
Ages: 4 to 12

Description of program: Discover how plant and animal adaptations allow them to successfully survive in amazing ways. This interactive program will include a craft and investigation of the plant or animal in question. Pre-registration required.

Notes: Parent participation required.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: Creek Week: Dip Netting for Water Quality
Date of Program: March 25, 2019 - Monday
Time of program: 4:45pm to 6:00pm

Price: $5.00
Ages: 5 to 16

Description of program: Celebrate Mecklenburg County's Creek Week with this interactive afterschool program. Fish and dip net our local stream to catch little critters that help us determine water quality. Pre-registration required.

Notes: This is not a drop-off program. Class will meet at the Four Seasons parking lot. Please bring shoes that can get wet and muddy with a back strap. Rain boots or old sneakers work as well. Also, bring a towel and extra change of clothes to leave in the car.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: Adult Hiking Series: Spring is Here
Date of Program: March 26, 2019 – Tuesday
Time of program: 2:00pm to 3:30pm

Price: Free
Ages: 18 and up

Description of program Get up and get active with a McDowell Naturalist during this 90-minute, adult only hike through McDowell Nature Preserve. Pre-registration required.

Notes: This hike qualifies for our 100 mile hike club. Come prepared to hike approximately 2 to 3 miles on uneven terrain. Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and weather-appropriate, comfortable clothing. Please bring your own water bottle.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: Backpacking Series Trip
Date of Program: March 29 - 31, 2019 – Friday to Sunday
Time of program: Leave time is 1:00pm

Price: $60.00
Ages: 18 and up

Description of program Not all who wander are lost! Put your knowledge of backpacking to use with a team of McDowell Outdoor Recreation Specialists as we wander into the woods for 2 nights and 3 days of backpack camping in Uwharrie National Forest. Pre-registration required.

Notes: For more information please contact Chad Moore or Taylor Besu at 980-314-1128.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: Creek Week: Frog Slog
Date of Program: March 30, 2019 - Saturday
Time of program: 3:00pm to 4:30pm

Price: Free
Ages: 5 and up

Description of program: In celebration of Creek Week, don your muck boots and slog through our creek and wetland in search of early spring frogs. Chorus Frogs, Spring Peepers and Cricket Frogs may be out calling and mating this time of year. We'll mimic their calls and use nets to catch as many as we can spot. Pre-registration required (for all participants, adult and child alike).

Notes: Parent participation required. Please bring shoes that can get wet and muddy with a back strap. Rain boots or old sneakers work as well. Also, bring a towel and extra change of clothes to leave in the car.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: W.O.W Birthday Parties at McDowell Nature Center
Date of Program: Call McDowell Nature Center to schedule date of party
Time of program: Call McDowell Nature Center to schedule time of party

Price: $185
Ages: 4 to 12

Description of program: An Unique Twist on Birthday Parties. You get an exciting and one of kind nature themed program that includes hands-on learning and exploration, as well as a craft that children can take home!
Birthday parties are for ages 4-12 year olds with up to 15 of their friends.
Parties will be at McDowell Nature Center Classroom
Program cost is $185 which includes a 1-hour program, themed gift bag per child, and the use of the classroom for two addition hours before or after the program.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Summer Camps 2019

Programs require pre-registration.
Register online at www.parkandrec.com, in person at McDowell Nature Center, or call 980-314-1128.
After registering, you will receive a camp info packet which includes contact and medical forms.
All forms must be completed and returned to the Nature Center by June 1st.
All campers will receive a water bottle and a camp t-shirt during their first camp of the summer.

Program name: Itty Bitty Camp
Dates of Program: July 1-5 (no camp 7/4)
Time of program: 10:00am to 11:30am

Price: $35.00
Ages: 3 to 4 with adult

Description of program: Little ones and their favorite adult play and learn together, using
all their senses to explore the natural world. Each day includes 1-2 themes, games, live animals, crafts, songs and snack time. Parent participation required.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: 5 to 6 Year Old Camps
Dates of Program: June 24-28 - Adventure Trek AM Session
June 24-28 - Adventure Trek PM Session
August 5-9 - Forest Exploration AM Session
August 5-9 - Forest Exploration PM Session
Times of program: AM Session – 9:00am – 12:00pm
PM Session – 1:00pm – 4:00pm

Price: $85.00
Ages: 5 to 6

Description of program: Young children who are crazy about nature love to get outside and get messy. Choose AM or PM per theme.

Adventure Trek - Campers discover the adventurer inside themselves. This week features free-choice nature playtime mixed with favorite camp activities like stream play and fire building. Kids are guaranteed to come home dirty!
Forest Exploration - Campers survey the layers of the forest, from ground to canopy. They’ll uncover how the forest can be home to so many different plants and animals.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: 7 to 9 Year Old Camps
Dates of Program: July 8-12 – Animal Care 1
July 22-26 – Nature Venture 1
July 29-August 2 – Nature Venture 2
August 19-23 – Animal Care 2
Time of program: 9:00am – 4:00pm daily

Price: $170.00
Ages: 7 to 9

Description of program: Young children who are crazy about nature love to get outside and get messy. Choose 1 week per theme.

Animal Care - Campers handle and care for a variety of wild and captive animals. Camp concludes with a camper-led live animal show!
Nature Venture - Campers traverse the outside realm meeting animals, geocaching, stream stomping and making friends. Every day brings new adventures and opportunities to grow.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Program name: 10 to 12 Year Old Camps
Dates of Program: June 17-20 – Coastal Explorers Camp
Time of program: 9:00am – 4:00pm Monday; overnight 9:00am Tues to 2:00pm Thurs; no camp Fri.

Price: $263.00
Ages: 10 to 12

Coastal Explorers Camp - Dive deep to discover how marine biology, conservation and coastal ecology connects us to the ocean. Monday, get comfortable learning how to seine and cast net, identify coastal critters and set up camp. Then it's off to Huntington Beach State Park for 3 days of salty fun and learning. Campers will come home with sandy toes and unforgettable stories. All food and supplies provided.
*Mandatory prep meeting June 15 at 10am

Dates of Program: August 12-16 – Water Sports Camp
Time of program: 9:00am – 4:00pm Monday to Friday

Price: $170.00
Ages: 10 to 12

Water Sports Camp - Campers get wet and wild, trying out a different water sport each day. Including Stand-up Paddle Boarding, canoeing, and kayaking, this camp is packed full of aquatic adventure.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Science-based and Week-long Camping Adventures for 13-15 year olds

Naturalist in-Training Camp

Dates of Program: August 5-9
Time of program: 9:00am – 4:00pm Monday to Friday

Price: $200.00
Ages: 13 to 15

Description of camp: If you love to be outside, learn about flora and fauna, and share your passion for nature with others, you might already be a Naturalist In-Training.
Delve deeper into the field of environmental science and connect with other teens who share your interests. You’ll meet local scientists, conduct field research, and tour labs and museums. On Friday, present your newly acquired expertise to friends and family during an open house ice cream social.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

Traveling Teens Summer Camp: North Carolina Mountains

Dates of Program: August 5-9

Price: $400.00
Ages: 13 to 15

Description of camp: One of the oldest mountain ranges in North America has a story to tell.
Uncover the secrets of the Appalachian Mountains during this 5-day/4-night camping experience. We’ll hike on the parkway, tube down the New River, and visit Appalachian State University.
We'll also give back to the Boone community through a service project.
*All food and supplies provided.
*Register by July 1, 2019.
*Mandatory pre-trip prep meeting to be scheduled.

Sponsor: McDowell Nature Preserve and Center
Address: 15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
Website: parkandrec.com
Phone: (980) 314-1128

To comment on this story, please click below to visit the Steele Creek Residents Association Facebook page.