Reedy Creek Nature Center & Preserve
Explore 927 acres of nature with free exhibits, playgrounds, and miles of trails for hiking, sports, and dog-walking.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Reedy Creek Nature Center & Preserve
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 927 acres of nature with free exhibits, playgrounds, and miles of trails for hiking, sports, and dog-walking.
"A fantastic free escape with something for everyone, from nature lovers to sports enthusiasts."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails vary from paved to gravel; good walking shoes are a must for exploring.
🦟 Bring Bug Spray
Especially during warmer months, protect yourself from insects on the trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nature Center Exhibits
Nature Center Building
Discover local wildlife with live animals, interactive displays, and a dedicated kids' corner. Educational and engaging for all ages.

Nature Playground
Adjacent to Nature Center
A fenced, shaded playground perfect for little ones to explore and burn energy after visiting the center.

Hiking Trails
Throughout the Preserve
Explore miles of trails, from paved paths to gravel routes, offering scenic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
The Dr. James F. Matthews Center for Biodiversity Studies
Inside Nature Center
Learn about regional biodiversity and see important natural specimens housed in this dedicated center.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors: What to Know Before You Go
Maximize Your Visit: Timing and Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails vary from paved to gravel; good walking shoes are a must for exploring.
🦟 Bring Bug Spray
Especially during warmer months, protect yourself from insects on the trails.
🗺️ Grab a Trail Map
The preserve is large; a map helps you navigate and find specific points of interest.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventures, especially on longer hikes.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails vary from paved to gravel; good walking shoes are a must for exploring.
🦟 Bring Bug Spray
Especially during warmer months, protect yourself from insects on the trails.
🗺️ Grab a Trail Map
The preserve is large; a map helps you navigate and find specific points of interest.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventures, especially on longer hikes.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Park
Leashed dogs are welcome in most areas, including a dedicated dog park.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Reedy Creek Nature Center & Preserve for its free admission and diverse offerings, from educational nature exhibits to extensive hiking trails and sports facilities. Families particularly enjoy the fenced playground and interactive elements for children. While generally well-maintained, some visitors note that certain trails might not be ideal for all strollers.
"Cute little Nature Center with some animals like snakes. Interactive stations to explore for little ones as well as a children corner with building blocks, books, a ready nook and more to explore!
There is a souvenir shop at the entrance as well.
What I really enjoyed was the fenced playground right next to the center, so you can just walk and explore outside, after the Nature Center.
Very clean and well maintained. And all for free!"
Vanessa
"2024.12.25 sunny 40s_F had a ~4.5 mi walk at the nearby (~10 mins drive) Reedy Creek Nature Preserve. Nice and clean, trails in good condition 👍 Encountered 5 friendly people and 1 dog while on the trails. A group playing Cricket (??) and another Baseball (??)."
01kk WAF00
"Well, this nature center has everything for everyone. I mean literally everything. If you have kids, they have playgrounds, library, museums etc. if you want to run, you can easily make 10 plus beautiful miles, if you simply want to walk, aw! Gorgeous walking trails. Basketball, disc golf, volleyball, baseball you name it. Nice clean bathrooms and employees at the information center are very professional and friendly."
Chet Budhathoki
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Reedy Creek Nature Center & Preserve is located at 2986 Rocky River Rd, Charlotte, NC 28215. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available.
While specific bus routes can change, it's best to check with Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) for the most current public transportation options to the area.
From Uptown Charlotte, take I-77 North to I-277 East, then merge onto US-74 East. Take the exit for Rocky River Road and follow signs for the preserve. The drive is typically around 15-20 minutes.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the Nature Center and various trailheads throughout the preserve.
While there are paved and gravel trails, it's not always clear where biking is permitted. Stick to designated paths or inquire at the Nature Center for guidance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Reedy Creek Nature Center & Preserve is completely free! This makes it a fantastic budget-friendly option for families and individuals.
The Nature Center is typically open Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm, and Sundays from 1 pm to 5 pm. It's always a good idea to check the official Mecklenburg County Parks & Recreation website for the most up-to-date hours.
Yes, Reedy Creek often hosts various programs and events, especially for children. You can sign up for these on the Mecklenburg County Parks & Recreation website.
Reedy Creek offers picnic shelters, and it's advisable to check with Mecklenburg County Parks & Recreation for reservation policies and availability if you plan to host a group event.
Fishing is permitted in designated areas. You will likely need a valid North Carolina fishing license. Check with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission for current regulations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Nature Center features live animals such as snakes, turtles, and various insects native to the region.
Some trails are paved and more accessible, but others are gravel and may not be ideal for all strollers. A jogging stroller might work on some paths.
Kids will love the fenced nature playground, the interactive exhibits in the Nature Center, a children's corner with books and blocks, and the opportunity to explore trails.
Yes, clean and well-maintained restrooms are available throughout the park.
The preserve boasts basketball courts, tennis courts, baseball fields, soccer fields, and a disc golf course.
📸 📸 Photography
The nature center with its animal exhibits, the scenic hiking trails, the playground, and the ponds offer great photo opportunities. The house ruins and old gold miner sites also provide unique shots.
Yes, you can photograph the wildlife, but always maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals. The bird feeders near the Nature Center are a good spot for bird photography.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits, so it's best to check with the park administration if you plan professional shoots.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best natural light for photography, creating softer shadows and warmer tones.
Look for the old gold miner house ruins and the large climbing tree mentioned by visitors for some unique shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Reedy Creek
Key Takeaway: Trails range from easy walks to longer, more challenging hikes. Always check trail conditions, especially after rain, and consider a map for navigation.
Family Fun at the Nature Center
Adjacent to the Nature Center is a fenced-in nature playground, offering a safe and shaded space for children to play. This combination of indoor exhibits and outdoor play makes Reedy Creek an ideal destination for a family outing, allowing kids to learn about nature in a fun and interactive way.
Pro Tip: Check the Mecklenburg County Parks & Recreation website for scheduled programs and events, which can add an extra layer of fun and learning to your visit.
Beyond the Trails: Sports and Recreation
Additionally, the park is known for its dog park, providing a dedicated space for canine companions to run and play off-leash. Visitors can also enjoy fishing in the designated ponds, though a North Carolina fishing license is required. The variety of amenities ensures that there's something for everyone, whether you're an athlete, a pet owner, or simply looking for a place to enjoy the outdoors.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit