Events

Look for book pages posted along Runge’s Naturescape trail and enjoy a seasonal children’s book as you walk and explore. Book begins at the trailhead across from the parking lot.

View Greg Renner's personal collection of antique duck decoys made in Missouri.

Gloria Gaus is a Missouri landscape painter whose plein air and studio oil paintings follow the seasons across the state’s rivers, wetlands, and open prairies. Her collection of Missouri landscapes is on display through August 28. 

Nature printmaking is the art of creating lifelike images on paper or fabric with found objects from nature. MDC Naturalist Pat Whalen exhibits nature prints from his personal work and programs he presents at the Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center. His prints will be on display in the west wing hallway through August. 

Let your stuffed animal enjoy a night of outdoor fun at the nature center! Drop your critter off at Runge July 21-23 during building hours, then on Thursday night while you’re at home, your plush pal will go camping, hiking, birdwatching, and more with other curious critters! After picking up your pal on Friday or Saturday, you’ll receive photos of their exciting adventures. The camp out will be chaperoned by a naturalist and a permission slip for your animal will need to be completed at the time of drop off. One stuffed animal per child, please.

Join us for an interactive hike that will highlight different landscapes and habitat types found in Central Missouri, and how landowners can utilize different management techniques for their property. We will take a look at grassland, woodland, and riparian areas, as well as identify native and invasive plant species.

Kayaking is a great way to get outdoors and connect with nature. Learn about the equipment and technique needed to kayak safely before getting on the water yourself! All equipment will be provided. Bring or wear close-toed shoes that can get wet, a water bottle, and dress for the weather during this outdoor program. This program will take place at the Missouri Department of Conservation – Commission Headquarters at 2901 West Truman Boulevard, Jefferson City.

Making Decisions On Your Property

If you are a new property owner and or new to managing land for wildlife, this is an opportunity to learn about the decision-making process. This workshop will integrate reasons why people may be interested in managing their property for wildlife with why wildlife management is important on their property. We will cover several types of management practices from prescribed fire, invasive species control, oak regeneration, food plots, and timber sales etc.

We will cover the how, what, when, where and why questions of the decision-making process when considering different wildlife management practices. How to pair different management activities with each other. Tools required for management will be discussed, along with pitfalls and mistakes.

There will be a power point presentation focusing on a case study of decisions made by a new Wildlife Biologist on a Conservation Area owned by the Missouri Department of Conservation. There will be plenty of opportunities for questions and a walking tour of Runge Nature Center after the presentation and questions.

Note: Participants may register and attend only one of Runge's monthly Wednesday or Saturday all-day hiking programs.

Enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the lake as you hike along rocky bluffs and gentle slopes during this guided hike on the Lakeview Bend Trail and Fawn's Run Trail at Lake of the Ozarks State Park (Miller/Camden Counties); 3.5 miles, moderate. Meet at Runge Nature Center in Jefferson City or the trailhead. Some transportation is provided, but carpooling may be necessary. Hike leaders will contact participants via email before the hike to give directions and other information. Wear sturdy shoes, dress for the weather, bring a water bottle, and pack a lunch/snack. Note: Registration closes on July 22 at 8 a.m.

Step into our lobby-turned-campground for a come-and-go adventure designed to get you excited about your next outdoor adventure. Kids can crawl in tents, gather around a pretend campfire, and dive into campfire storybooks. Grownups can browse essential gear tips, discover great places to camp in Missouri, and learn safety basics for planning real-world adventures. Drop in anytime, stay as long as you like, and enjoy a playful taste of the great outdoors; no bug spray required!