Lee and Karen Duquette,
The Two RV Gypsies: Full-Time RVers
at McDowell Nature Preserve
15222 York Road
Charlotte, NC 28278
(Mecklenburg County)
February 18, 2019

McDowell Nature Preserve has over 7 miles of trails that offered the two RV Gypsies the opportunity to explore a variety of terrain with scenic views of Lake Wylie, forests, streams, and a piedmont prairie restoration area. McDowell Nature Preserve protects habitat for at least 119 species of birds, 21 species of mammals, 21 species of reptiles, and 14 species of amphibians. Although on this date, the only wildlife that the two RV Gypsies saw was one bird. But they had a nice, easy hike on several trails and enjoyed the scenery.

On this date, the signs stated that dogs are welcome but must remain on a 6-foot or shorter leash at all times. Bicycles are restricted to paved roads within the preserve.

Lee and Karen Duquette explored McDowell Nature Center which serves as the gateway to 1,132 acres of McDowell Nature Preserve and is the resource for educational programs and information on the preserve's natural communities, flora, and fauna. This oldest preserve in Mecklenburg County protects mostly forested, rolling terrain along the banks of Lake Wylie. The Nature Center features native animal displays, a discovery hall, and a gift shop.

Below: Two works of art outside the Nature Center.

Below: Lee Duquette liked the very big dragonfly hanging from the ceiling inside the McDowell Nature Center, so he took a photo. It was certainly colorful.

Below: Lee and Karen Duquette started their hike on the 0.8 mile Pine Hollow Trail, which connected to several other trails. All of the trails they took were easy, although sometimes muddy because there had been a lot of rain recently in the area.

Below: There were many small creeks along the way.

Below: Lee Duquette spotted A"Sling Shot" tree.

Below: Lee Duquette stopped to examine the many miniature rock formations on a wall, and Karen Duquette photographed close-up photos of a few of them.

Below: Just before leaving the Pine Hollow Trail and going on the Creekside Trail, Lee and Karen Duquette paused to watch two men with having fun with small RC cars.

Below: Lee and Karen Duquette were amazed by the giant Burl growing on a tree.

Below; After completing the 1.1 mile Creekside Trail, Lee Duquette drove to the Waterfront Deck and they enjoyed nice views of Lake Wylie.

St. Patrick's Day Celebrations. Karen Duquette won the costume contest at a line dance party.

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