Events

Slow down and enjoy learning the art of cooking outdoors in a Dutch oven, a versatile and historic way to prepare delicious food. From the main dish to dessert, participants will prepare the food and sample the tasty results. MDC & Rolla Parks & Rec. will provide ingredients, cookware, and expertise. You bring your interest, and enthusiasm, Final Dutch oven samples will be provided, but not enough for a meal. Registration required. Ages 12+

Virtual Vise: Fly tying at Home. Come join us as Sarah Elrod from Ozark Region shows us how to tie some summer jigs.

Probable Materials:

marabou assorted colors

jig hooks assorted weights and sizes

flashabou

zonk

210 denier thread

buck tail

kiptail

We will be amending this list as time gets closer and also asserting what jigs we intend to tie.

Look forward to seeing everyone.

Explore the natural history of sassafras and cultural history of the Ozarks by creating your own sassafras sculling paddle using traditional woodworking techniques. All work will be with hand tools. This workshop is hands on, so bring your lunch and work gloves.

Flatwater Kayaking: July 9th at the boat ramp located within Rinquelin Trail Lake Conservation Area

Join us for an evening on the water for a basic flatwater kayaking program. Participants will learn information and safety about kayaking during a ground school portion of the class, then take to the water for paddling instruction and practice. Participants aged 13 and older are welcome to register; those aged younger than 18 must be accompanied by a registered adult. Fishing poles will be provided if you wish to experience fishing from a kayak the later portion of the program; participants 16 and older must possess a valid fishing permit if you choose to fish.

Kayaks, paddles, and life-jackets will be provided. Close-toed shoes are required.

For questions please contact Dwight Warnke at Dwight.Warnke@mdc.mo.gov

Introduction to Stream Kayaking: July 11 on the Big Piney River between Six Crossings (50.0 river mileage marker) to Big Piney River bridge (54.5 river mileage marker). Participants will meet at Big Piney River Bridge and be shuttled to starting point at Six Crossings access point. Must arrive at Big Piney Bridge by 8:50 am to get shuttled to starting point. Directions to Big Piney Bridge: From Duke, take Route K west to Western Road then across Big Piney Bridge and turn right to gravel bar.

Participants will learn information and safety about kayaking during a ground school portion of the class, then take to kayaking the river. Participants aged 13 and older are welcome to register; those aged younger than 18 must be accompanied by a registered adult. Participants should bring a hat, sun screen, insect repellant, extra water, and lunch. Food and water is not available for purchase nor will be provided. A dry bag is recommended for personal gear. Fishing poles will be provided if you wish to experience fishing from a kayak the later portion of the program; participants 16 and older must possess a valid fishing permit if you choose to fish.

Kayaks, paddles, and life-jackets will be provided. Close-toed shoes are required.

For questions please contact Dwight Warnke at Dwight.Warnke@mdc.mo.gov

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+

Introduction to Stream Kayaking: July 25 on the Meramec River between MDC Woodson K. Woods River Access (28.2 river mileage marker) to Scotts Ford Access (35.1 river mileage marker). Participants will meet at MDC Scotts Ford Access and be shuttled to starting point on MDC Woodson K. Woods access point. Must arrive at Scotts Ford by 8:50 am to get shuttled to starting point.

Participants will learn information and safety about kayaking during a ground school portion of the class, then take to kayaking the river. Participants aged 13 and older are welcome to register; those aged younger than 18 must be accompanied by a registered adult. Participants should bring a hat, sun screen, insect repellant, extra water, and lunch. Food and water is not available for purchase nor will be provided. A dry bag is recommended for personal gear. Fishing poles will be provided if you wish to experience fishing from a kayak the later portion of the program; participants 16 and older must possess a valid fishing permit if you choose to fish. The stretch we are floating is a Red Ribbon Trout Area, only flies and artificial lures may be used (hard plastics like rooster tails and crank baits); NO soft plastic baits, and natural and scented baits are prohibited when fishing for any species.

Kayaks, paddles, and life-jackets will be provided. Close-toed shoes are required.

For questions please contact Dwight Warnke at Dwight.Warnke@mdc.mo.gov

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.

Slow down, unplug, and connect with craft and nature in this hands-on woodworking workshop. In this beginner-friendly session, you’ll learn how to carve your own wooden bowl using traditional hand tools and native tree species.

This class walks you through every step—from selecting your wood and understanding its grain, to shaping, carving, and finishing your own functional piece. Along the way, you'll gain insight into the natural characteristics of native tree species and the meditative rhythm of working with your hands.

No prior carving experience needed—all tools and materials provided. Whether you're into heritage crafts, sustainability, or just want to try something real and tactile, this is a chance to make something meaningful (and beautiful) from the ground up.

All minors MUST be accompanied by a registered adult.

Veterans fish for free at Montauk State Park on Saturday, September 12, 2026. Veterans can pick up their free fishing tag the day of the event at the Dorman Steelman Lodge in Montauk State Park. The spring branch will be reserved for veterans and their family members only. Hooked on Vets will be providing assistance and attendance prizes. Lunch will be provided. Tagged fish will be stocked with prizes available as well.