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.

Registration required by visiting www.deeproots.org/discover-native-gardening (adults) It's one thing to read about native plants and another to get your hands dirty! Learn seasonal gardening skills, be empowered and grow community alongside native plant experts and enthusiasts. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor after registering and at least one week prior to the program.

Registration required (adults) Connecting to nature can be as easy as rolling some dice! Join us for an empowering and fun Dungeons and Dragons One-Shot, all about nature. This game is beginner friendly and will introduce players to basic mechanics of the game. Players will choose from pre-made characters and jump right into playing. No prior experience with DnD required and all materials are provided. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor after registering and at least one week prior to the program.

Interested in learning more about prairies and woodlands of Northwest Missouri and the plant species that make them so unique? Join the Missouri Department of Conservation, The Nature Conservancy, University of Missouri Extension, and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources this summer for a series of plant identification hikes.

Hikes will be held June 16th & August 18th at Wallace State Park (Cameron, MO) and July 21st & September 15th at Dunn Ranch Prairie (Eagleville, MO). Participants are welcome to attend one session or all, and all skill levels will have a great time learning about our native species. Check back for additional prairie workshops in the fall including native seed harvest techniques and how to grow native plants from seed.

Hikes will be on maintained trails and the adjacent prairies and woodlands. Please be sure to wear appropriate outdoor shoes and clothing. Bring water, sunscreen, and bug repellent if desired.

Participants will meet at The Nature Conservancy's Dunn Ranch Headquarters- 16970 W 150th St, Hatfield, MO 64458

Kayak Lake Springfield with us on a summer evening and learn about Missouri's native wetland habitats and wildlife! We will provide the kayaks, paddles, and life jackets, just bring water, snacks, sunscreen and wear weather appropriate clothes.

Meet at the Southwood Canoe Access & Trail of Honor parking lot at 7:00 pm.

Ages 18 and up. This event is FREE, but registration is required.

Registration required by visiting www.deeproots.org/discover-native-gardening (adults) It's one thing to read about native plants and another to get your hands dirty! Learn seasonal gardening skills, be empowered and grow community alongside native plant experts and enthusiasts. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor after registering and at least one week prior to the program.

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+