Hunting Events

Don’t know where to hunt? Or maybe you just don’t know where to look. Come learn about opportunities that may have been under your radar. This information table will give you the know-how to register for Missouri managed hunts. There are hunts designated for youth, people with disabilities, specific species and seasons and more. During the month of July only, you are able to sign up for hunts on areas including Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area, Blue Springs Lake, Watkins Mill and many more!

Discover the world of alternative hunting methods in this hands-on introductory course! Learn the fundamentals of archery, slings, and atlatls, three time-tested tools used for hunting and survival across cultures and history. This class covers the mechanics, techniques, and practical applications of each method, providing a unique opportunity to develop your skills and understanding of primitive projectiles.

Perfect for beginners and experienced outdoor enthusiasts alike-come challenge yourself and explore the past through these traditional hunting techniques!

Join us to discover the joys of shotgun shooting. We will discuss shotgun nomenclature, stance, dominant eye, mounting, moving the shotgun, and much more. We will provide 20-gauge shotguns and ammunition for those who do not have one. If you plan to use your own, bring a minimum of 50 rounds of new ammunition for your firearm. Make sure all firearms are unloaded before arriving at the range. There should be no live ammunition, or uncased firearms inside the classroom. Please leave all firearms in the vehicle until the class is dismissed including all concealed carry handguns and magazines.

Unleash your inner marksman at Runge in this beginner-friendly crossbow experience! After learning the basics of safely loading and shooting a crossbow, we will put those techniques to the test at our outdoor range. Meet at the Runge outdoor pavilion before heading to the outdoor range with staff. Dress for the weather in closed-toed shoes. All equipment is provided. There is no seating at the range, so bring a camp chair if necessary.

Are you looking to take up bowhunting this fall but are unsure of where or what to begin with? Join our staff for this new program where we will put you through “Bowhunter Bootcamp”. This is a series of programs spanning three weeks, however, participants are welcome to sign up for any of the offerings that they choose. Topics covered will include basic archery equipment and accessories, ground blind and tree stand safety, scouting, and shooting fundamentals. Participants are encouraged to bring their own equipment (bows and arrows) that they plan on hunting with to become more familiar with it.

Handling a firearm can feel like a barrier if you're interested in hunting but haven't tried it before. We have a safe and fun way to help ease people into those activities. Our Lasershot system is a fun and engaging way to use realistic simulated firearms and get more comfortable or build skills in shooting. Join us at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center and give our Lasershot system a try.

Registration required by visiting https://mostateparks.com/basic-page/learn2-aim (ages 10+) Begin your archer journey by attending a hands-on workshop this summer! Take a step back in time and join Missouri State Parks for one or more of our Learn2 Aim events This is a great opportunity to learn new skills with instruction on the basics of archery. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor at least one week prior to the program.

Parents, grandparents, and adult mentors bring your youngster(s) to learn a new skill and spend time practicing. You don’t have to be a hunter to become a skilled archer. No experience is necessary and archery equipment will be provided We will teach and practice the basics and help you perfect your stance to shoot more consistently and accurately.

Are you looking to take up bowhunting this fall but are unsure of where or what to begin with? Join our staff for this new program where we will put you through “Bowhunter Bootcamp”. This is a series of programs spanning three weeks, however, participants are welcome to sign up for any of the offerings that they choose. Topics covered will include basic archery equipment and accessories, ground blind and tree stand safety, scouting, and shooting fundamentals. Participants are encouraged to bring their own equipment (bows and arrows) that they plan on hunting with to become more familiar with it.

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 program will teach the fundamentals of archery including equipment, safety, stance, and shooting techniques This family event is for all ages with the desire to shoot a bow and arrow but have little or no experience. Parents / guardians may need to assist their youth in drawing the bow string since the minimum draw is 8 lbs. Note: All equipment will be provided by the Missouri Department of Conservation. Not recommended for adults with shoulder or back injuries.

Registration is not required, since this is come-and-go event for the public. Individuals will rotate in 5 persons at a time for two rounds of shooting before getting back in waiting line.