Events

Come use your imagination to create artwork using a canvas and woodworking scraps. Maybe you see a small mouse curled in a cozy nest in that pile of wood shavings. Or maybe you see a fox pouncing through tall grasses in that kindling. Let your imagination free during this hands-on class.

Samples created by our guest artist, Kathy Schweer, who was recently a featured artist in our lobby gallery, will be available to give your imagination a jump start.

Only registered participants may attend the program.

Celebrate Father’s Day early at our delightful tea party! Enjoy an enchanting afternoon filled with aromatic teas brewed from native plants, accompanied by treats crafted from garden-fresh ingredients. Embark on a flower-themed scavenger hunt through our gardens, creating cherished memories with your little one amidst nature's beauty. Enroll both dad and child(ren) for an unforgettable bonding experience!

Fishing is a great opportunity to engage with our natural resources, grow close to family, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Join the Missouri Department of Conservation at Jackson Rotary Park, June 18 from 9am-12pm, for a free fishing opportunity. Participants will be provided fishing equipment and bait free of charge with no registration or permit necessary. So come get hooked on fishing with MDC.

From hiding in plain sight to singing their tunes throughout the night these creatures sure are loud! Tune in to discover the special features that allow these sticky amphibians to thrive in Missouri’s swamps and forests. Please ensure that your MDC account includes an accurate email address so that you can receive a link to the virtual program. The link will be sent at least 30 min before the program begins.

Description:

Fishing is a great way for kids and families to have fun outdoors, learn about conservation, and make happy memories. Our Discover Nature-Fishing program is a hands-on, four-part fishing instruction series that helps families gain the skills and confidence they need to go fishing on their own.

This program will cover lessons 3 and 4 which are best completed after lessons 1 and 2. Participants will learn about Missouri freshwater ecosystems, common fish, artificial lures, and the regulations regarding fishing in Missouri. The Discover Nature-Fishing program is available for ages 7 and up. We will host this program at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center. Participants will not be required to have a valid fishing license and those who have already completed lessons 1 and 2 will receive fishing related rewards.

Explore the fascinating world of animals as we compare and contrast wild animals, pets, and farm animals through interactive play and sensory activities. Discover what it takes for wild animals to survive and how we can help. Babes in the Woods programs are designed to empower parents to introduce babies and toddlers ages 0–2 years to the sights, sounds, and textures of nature.

Explore the fascinating world of animals as we compare and contrast wild animals, pets, and farm animals through interactive play and sensory activities. Discover what it takes for wild animals to survive and how we can help. Babes in the Woods programs are designed to empower parents to introduce babies and toddlers ages 0–2 years to the sights, sounds, and textures of nature.

With the start of summer comes frogs singing throughout the night around our ponds. One in particular is bull frogs. We’ll learn about bull frog life history and the frog gigging season before making some delicious frog leg mole tacos. We’ll also learn how to make your own tortillas.

Did you know there are treasures hiding all around you? Geocaching is a fun pastime in which you follow GPS coordinates to a specific location or box filled with trinkets. In this program, we will discuss different types of caches, safety, and apps that can be used. Then we’ll hit the trails to find some “treasure.” Please bring a smartphone that can download the free version of the Geocaching® app.

Has your child ever uttered the statement, “I’m bored!”? Well, look no further! This two-day camp is full outdoor adventure fun and will be sure to cure them of their summer boredom. This year we'll be exploring the beautiful variety of habitats found in Missouri, and the animals that call these places home. Throughout the two days of camp, participants will explore Missouri’s habitats by foot, canoe, and jumping right in! A welcome email will be sent prior to the program with full details and a packing list. Snacks, safety, and all equipment are provided. Each child is only eligible for one Kids Camp session per year.