Jackson

Region
Kansas City
FIPS code
095
Displaying 1 - 10 of 141

Learn to Fish

Fishing is all about slowing down, getting outside, and making simple, lasting memories together. Whether you’re casting a line off a quiet dock or sitting along the shoreline, fishing is an easy, low-pressure way for families to connect with nature—and each other. You don’t need fancy gear or expert skills to get started; just a bit of patience, a sense of curiosity, and a willingness to enjoy the moment. Along the way, adults learn valuable lessons about wildlife, responsibility, and the thrill of reeling in the catch.

Discover Nature - Fishing Lessons 1 & 2

MEET AT EDUCATION POND PARKING LOT

Fishing is a fun, family activity and a skill with many future uses. We will teach and practice the basics and help you perfect your technique. Please sign up for only one session and register each person (3yrs and older) of your family individually. Cane poles will be available for younger kids. Please wear closed-toe shoes and dress for the weather.

Discover Nature - Fishing Lessons 1 & 2

MEET AT EDUCATION POND PARKING LOT

Fishing is a fun, family activity and a skill with many future uses. We will teach and practice the basics and help you perfect your technique. Please sign up for only one session and register each person (3yrs and older) of your family individually. Cane poles will be available for younger kids. Please wear closed-toe shoes and dress for the weather.

Spiders

October is a great month to celebrate my favorite creepy crawlies, spiders! Spiders are very beneficial animals and some of the most misunderstood. We will learn about some of the most common Missouri spiders, how to identify them, and their importance in nature.

Nature Art

Sept.1 - Dec.15: Submissions accepted for

Nature Photography Contest- Native Wildflowers

Submit Your Photos of Missouri’s native wildflowers from the last few years. Photography is a wonderful way to learn more about Missouri’s amazing native flora! We love photos from Burr Oak Woods of course, but request that photos must at least have been taken in the state of Missouri.

Submission Method:

• Register for the program/contest at https://mdc.mo.gov/events

• Maximum of two photos per person, at least 2550 x 3300 pixels, print size- 8.5”x11”

Little Acorns

Let’s go a little batty! Quiet leathery wings and hungry tummies are important to being a bat. Enjoy story time, puppets, singing and more. Then, go for an optional hike to look for places bats sleep in the daytime.

Babes in the Woods

Let’s go a little batty! Quiet leathery wings and hungry tummies are important to being a bat. Enjoy story time, puppets, singing and more. Then, go for an optional hike to look for places bats sleep in the daytime.

Deer Hunting

Deer hunting is challenging, rewarding, and about much more than wearing camouflage and sitting in a stand. It starts weeks—sometimes months—before opening day. This class begins at the very beginning and walks you through what it really takes to prepare for a successful hunt. You’ll learn about rifle and ammunition selection, how to dress for the hunt, different hunting methods, scouting techniques, animal identification, and how to properly sight in your rifle. This is a knowledge-based class designed to build understanding and confidence—it is not a shooting class.

Hiking

Celebrate fall with a hike! Meet one of the Burr Oak Woods naturalists at the Smoke & Davey Trailhead at Smithville Lake. Enjoy several stops along the way to hear about some of the local wildlife that call the area home and learn about the benefits of what a hike can do for you. The route is a loop and is about 2 miles long on a partially paved trail. The hike is moderate difficulty with some slight hills and occasionally uneven terrain. Wear good walking shoes, dress for the weather, and bring a water bottle.

Nature Art

Walk-in (all ages) Brush Creek Art Walk (BCAW) celebrates its 15th anniversary in September of 2026. The three-day en Plein Air (outdoor) painting event starts on Friday, September 18 and runs through Sunday, September 20 along the ENTIRE 4-mile stretch of Brush Creek. BCAW 2026 includes three Quick Paint Events with a $500 Purchase Award being offered at the conclusion of each of these 3-hour events. The public is encouraged to see the artists in action on Saturday, September 19 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Discovery Center! Sales 'direct from the easel' are encouraged.