Events

Walk-in (all ages) There are many native plants whose fiber can be used to weave rope or cordage. We will experiment with this primitive technology to make ropes and bracelets by braiding fibers of cedar, dogbane, cattails, rattlesnake master and yucca. In a wilderness survival situation this new-found skill will enable you to make fishing lines, bows and arrows and shelters.

Come and try your shotgun skills on the Huntsman! What a challenging way to get ready for bird season!

Lesson 1: Equipment, Casting and Proper Fish Handling combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families basic fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn how to properly and safely cast a spincast fishing rod, parts of a fishing rod, how to fasten basic fishing tackle and how to properly handle and release a fish. Equipment, instructors/coaches and bait/lures will be provided. Ages 5 and above. All children ages 7-15 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Fishing permits are not required to fish during this program.

Lesson 2: How to Tie a Knot and Bait a Hook combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families intermediate fishing techniques and skills. Participants will learn to tie an improved clinch knot and how to properly secure bait on hooks. Fishing equipment, instructors/coaches and bait/lures will be provided. Ages 7 and above. All children ages 7-15 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

NATIONALLY AWARD WINNING
SPECIAL EVENT:
An on-the-trail performance of:
Superheroes and the Curse of the Alien Invaders
Walk-in (all ages)
If you listen carefully, you may hear the incredible story of the war between the Superheroes and the Alien Invaders! Meet the Incredible Hulk, Batman, Aqua Girl, Spiderman, Captain Marvel and even Superman along the trail as they battle against the Alien Invaders of Burr Oak Woods! Activities, crafts, prizes and refreshments included! Experts will also be available to discuss some of these troublesome exotic species. There will be something for everyone! Registration is not necessary, but you may pick up tickets for your selected time at the nature center prior to OR on the day of the performance. Trail performances begin approximately every 15 minutes from 4 PM to 7 PM. Each will last 45 minutes. The 8 PM performance will be held in the auditorium. Tickets are limited.

Registration required (ages 3-5 with an adult)
Eww! What’s that smell? Dinner! Come in and learn about one of Missouri’s most overlooked wild animals, the turkey vulture. Using a keen sense of smell, these birds are well adapted to a job that many take for granted. Dress to be outside for a portion of the program.

Lesson 4: Fishing with Lures and Fishing Regulations combines instruction with hands-on fishing to teach young anglers and families how to properly select a fishing lure based on desired fish species, weather and water conditions. In addition, participants will learn how to identify and understand fishing regulations. Fishing equipment, instructors/coaches and bait/lures will be provided. All children ages 7-15 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Participants must have completed Lessons 1 and 2 prior to attending Lesson 3 or 4.

Registration required (families with children ages 6–13)
Spiders, snakes, bugs and bats, oh my! Some people are afraid of the creepy critters that live here, but that is mostly because they believe myths that just aren’t true. Join us as we explore these interesting “creepies”. We will bust some myths, meet some critters up close then head out onto the trail to find some in their own habitat. Dress to be outside for a portion of the program.

Registration Required (Women 18+) This program is a safe and fun way for women to enjoy a day of shooting in a friendly, safe environment. This all-day event will cover everything from rifles and pistols to shotguns and archery. It is a great way to introduce you and others to the sport of shooting and to the different shooting disciplines offered. The one-on-one coaching offered by Lake City staff will give you the support needed to obtain the skills of a basic shooter and give you a better understanding of what the shooting sports can offer you. LUNCH WILL NOT BE PROVIDED, SO PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN LUNCH/SNACKS. Refreshments will be provided.

Participants activities will include instruction in Wing shooting , Duck Calling, and Hunting strategies. Clinic participants will be invited to waterfowl hunt sometime during the youth or regular Duck Season. For More information call 660-885 6981

This class is for Women ONLY!

Walk-in (ages 2+)
Join us for story hour as we lead you on fantastic nature adventures! We will meet birds, mammals and all sorts of magnificent creatures! We will cross rivers, discover mysteries within the forest and fly across the prairies. Our imaginations are the only limits.