Discover Nature 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.

Missouri is home to 18 species of turtles. Stop by this interactive display to learn more about the turtles of our state and pick up a free turtle booklet. All ages. No registration required.

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.

Play bingo, win prizes, and learn more about Missouri’s amazing amphibians and reptiles! All ages. Registration required.

Don’t be lost in the woods! Come join a MDC conservation educator to learn more about orienteering and practice your new skills on a new compass orienteering course at Ber Juan Park! Participants will learn the basics of reading maps and using a compass during a brief classroom portion and then will have a chance to put their skills into practice. Please meet at Ber Juan Park Pavilion at 1200 E. 14th Street just east of SplashZone Waterpark for the first part of the program. Dress for the weather and shoes with good ankle support. Registration required. Ages 10+

Hisssssssss. Slither on in to learn more about Missouri snakes. With more than 40 species in the state, we can't cover them all in this hour-long program, but we discuss several common species and answer questions about these fascinating but often misunderstood reptiles. All ages. Registration required.

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.

Have you ever been camping? Spending the night outdoors can be a fun adventure! Explore camping equipment, enjoy pretend camping activities, and decorate a special camping journal to take on your next trip. Ages 3 to 6. Registration required.

Pond Management 101, Summer 2026

Save your spot! Registration is required for attendance!

Ever wanted to learn about pond ecosystems or aquatic system management in the Midwest? Well here is a great opportunity to learn from your local MDC Fisheries experts.

Target audience of the presentation is private pond owners, HOA aquatic resource managers, and public service providers. However everyone from the public is welcome to the join, however minors under 18 years of age, must be accompanied by an adult.

Topics will range widely from:

- Pond site selection

- Pond infrastructure management

- Water quality considerations

- Fish population dynamics

- Aquatic plant ID and control recommendations

- AND MORE!!!

Attendees of all ages are welcome; however, minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a legal adult or guardian to attend this workshop.

Light refreshments will be provided for registered attendees.

Please contact the office or this email with any pressing questions prior to the class.

Have you ever been camping? Spending the night outdoors can be a fun adventure! Explore camping equipment, enjoy pretend camping activities, and decorate a special camping journal to take on your next trip. Ages 3 to 6. Registration required.