Archery is the skill of using a bow to propel arrows. It can be used in hunting, but is also a competitive sport and recreational activity. Nearly everyone — regardless of age, size, or physical ability — can succeed at archery.
Date:
Tuesday, August 18, 2026 10:00 am - Tuesday, August 18, 2026 11:30 am
Location:
Rockwoods Reservation
Are you someone that has never shot a bow and arrow before and you’re not sure how to get started? Or maybe you did when you were young but never pursued the activity any further. Learn the basics of shooting the bow and arrow utilizing some of the techniques and methods that have been adopted by the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP). This course is for those with little or no experience. Note: All equipment will be provided by the Missouri Department of Conservation. Not recommended for adults with shoulder or back injuries.
Date:
Saturday, August 22, 2026 8:00 am - Saturday, August 22, 2026 9:30 am
Location:
Lake City Shooting Range
Ready to try something powerful, precise, and seriously fun? In Crossbow Basics, you’ll learn how a crossbow works, how to handle it safely, and how to shoot with accuracy and confidence. We’ll cover proper stance, aiming, loading, and basic maintenance, then put those skills into action on the range. Whether it’s your first time or you’re just curious to learn more, this class is a great way to build skills and confidence in a hands-on environment.
Date:
Sunday, August 23, 2026 4:00 pm - Sunday, August 23, 2026 6:00 pm
Location:
Andy Dalton Shooting Range
This class will be the complete guide to using all methods of bow and arrow including, long bow, compound, crossbow, atlatl and more. We will shoot each method in hunting like situations, be prepared to be outside for this class.
Date:
Monday, August 24, 2026 12:00 pm - Monday, August 24, 2026 4:00 pm
Location:
Parma Woods Shooting Range
3D Archery is a fun, yet challenging game where archers shoot at life-sized animal targets at unknown distances to simulate real life hunting scenarios. This program is intended for hunters and other experienced archers looking to improve their shooting skills. Participants need to provide their own equipment.
Date:
Thursday, August 27, 2026 6:00 pm - Thursday, August 27, 2026 8:00 pm
Location:
Neosho National Fish Hatchery
Join us for a fun evening of archery instruction at the Neosho National Fish Hatchery. We will talk about equipment, techniques, and how to be safe while shooting bows. We will then go outside to practice these skills. All equipment will be provided. Please register as space is limited.
Date:
Thursday, September 3, 2026 6:00 pm - Thursday, September 3, 2026 7:30 pm
Location:
Jay Henges Shooting Range
Crossbows are a great way to introduce new and youth hunters to bowhunting, but it can be confusing on what you need and the best ways to use your equiptment. Join our staff to get ready for the upcoming archery seasons with this Basics of Crossbow course.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own crossbows if possible to familiarize themselves with the equiptment they will be hunting with. Crossbows will be available during the event, but are in limited supply
Date:
Saturday, September 5, 2026 1:00 pm - Saturday, September 5, 2026 2:30 pm
Location:
Burr Oak Woods Conservation Nature Center
Archery is a fun, lifetime sport that all can enjoy. Learn the basics of archery and how to shoot safely, then practice your newly learned skills under the supervision of staff. Dress for the weather in closed-toe shoes. Meet at the Education pond at Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. All equipment is provided. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor at least one week prior to the program. Registration required. Ages 8+
Date:
Tuesday, September 8, 2026 5:00 pm - Tuesday, September 8, 2026 6:30 pm
Location:
Cape Girardeau Nature Center
Have you ever wanted to try your hand at archery but haven’t had the chance? Or maybe you tried it out as a kid at summer camp but haven’t picked up a bow since. Here’s your chance to learn the basics of shooting a compound bow alongside other beginners interested in this new skill. Drop by anytime between 5-6:30pm. We’ll discuss bow mechanics and safety before we give you the opportunity to practice your aim.
Date:
Wednesday, September 9, 2026 5:00 pm - Wednesday, September 9, 2026 7:00 pm
Location:
August A Busch Shooting Range
Discover the excitement of crossbow shooting in this hands-on program offered by MDC. Whether you're interested in recreational target shooting or preparing for deer hunting season, participants will learn the fundamentals of crossbow safety, equipment operation, and shooting techniques from MDC instructors. After a brief instructional session, participants will have the opportunity to shoot a crossbow and practice their skills on the range.
This program is designed for beginners and those looking to build their skills. MDC will provide crossbows and other necessary equipment, but participants are welcome to bring their own crossbow if they would like to practice with the equipment they plan to use. No prior experience is necessary. Join us to build confidence, improve your accuracy, and enjoy a fun outdoor recreational activity!
Date:
Thursday, September 10, 2026 5:30 pm - Thursday, September 10, 2026 7:30 pm
Location:
Frank Russell Rec Area Mark Twain Lake
With archery deer season right around the corner, are you ready?
Bring your archery equipment to the 3-D archery Range at Frank Russell where targets are set up to simulate a variety of hunting situations. Attendees will be able to receive one-on-one coaching from MDC Staff on archery techniques and shooting angles. We will be setting up different scenarios such as shooting from blinds or elevated positions to help archers prepare for archery deer season.
You MUST have your own archery equipment, BOWS AND ARROWS.