Events

Fishing is a great way for kids and families to have fun outdoors, learn about conservation, and make happy memories. Our Discover Nature-Fishing program is a hands-on, four-part fishing instruction series that helps families gain the skills and confidence they need to go fishing on their own.

This program will cover the Discover Nature-Fishing Lessons 1 and 2, which are best to complete before Lessons 3 and 4 (hosted later). Participants will learn about fishing equipment, casting, rigging a fishing rod, baiting a hook, and proper fish handling. The Discover Nature-Fishing program is available for ages 7 and up. This program will take place at the lake in the Sikeston Recreational Complex. Participants will not be required to have a valid fishing license for this program.

Celebrate the dog days of summer by learning about Missouri’s wild dogs. Are you as clever as a fox or as crafty as a coyote? Join us for a howling good time as we discover more about the lives of these canine friends through interactive play. Babes in the Woods programs are designed to empower parents to introduce babies and toddlers ages 0–2 years to the sights, sounds, and textures of nature.

Celebrate the dog days of summer by learning about Missouri’s wild dogs. Are you as clever as a fox or as crafty as a coyote? Join us for a howling good time as we discover more about the lives of these canine friends through interactive play. Babes in the Woods programs are designed to empower parents to introduce babies and toddlers ages 0–2 years to the sights, sounds, and textures of nature.

Meet one of the smallest turtles in North America, the eastern musk turtle. This tiny turtle spends most of its time under water and is seldom seen. We will take an in-depth look at this pint-sized reptile and find out why it is sometimes called a stinkpot. Participants will receive the virtual program link at least 30 minutes prior to the start of the program. Please ensure your MDC account includes an accurate email address so that you can receive this link.

Fishing is a great way for kids and families to have fun outdoors, learn about conservation, and make happy memories. Our Discover Nature-Fishing program is a hands-on, four-part fishing instruction series that helps families gain the skills and confidence they need to go fishing on their own.

This program will cover the Discover Nature-Fishing Lessons 1 and 2, which are best to complete before Lessons 3 and 4 (hosted later). Participants will learn about fishing equipment, casting, rigging a fishing rod, baiting a hook, and proper fish handling. The Discover Nature-Fishing program is available for ages 7 and up. This program will take place at the lake in the Sikeston Recreational Complex. Participants will not be required to have a valid fishing license for this program.

Summer is truly in full swing! Take a break from the heat to enjoy the water on scenic Lake Girardeau. This program is an opportunity to get your friends or family out on the water. Participants will receive basic instruction and then borrow one of our canoes for a morning on the lake. We will not be paddling as a group and your party may go at their own pace. MDC staff will be on the water to assist in emergencies. If you wish to bring your own fishing supplies and have a valid permit you are welcome to fish during your time on the water. Meet at the Lake Girardeau west boat launch off county road 383. Failure to arrive by 9:00 will forfeit your reservation. Canoes, paddles, lifejackets and safety equipment will be provided. Please only register 1 person to reserve a canoe. Canoes hold up to 2 Adults and 1 child. Please no pets or alcohol.

Fishing is a great way for kids and families to have fun outdoors, learn about conservation, and make happy memories. Our Discover Nature-Fishing program is a hands-on, four-part fishing instruction series that helps families gain the skills and confidence they need to go fishing on their own.

This program will cover the Discover Nature-Fishing Lessons 1 and 2, which are best to complete before Lessons 3 and 4 (hosted later). Participants will learn about fishing equipment, casting, rigging a fishing rod, baiting a hook, and proper fish handling. The Discover Nature-Fishing program is available for ages 7 and up. This program will take place at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center. Participants will not be required to have a valid fishing license for this program.

Discover the importance of Missouri reptiles and amphibians and see what it takes to keep our education animals happy and healthy. Bring your family and watch as we introduce and feed several different reptiles and amphibians. This program is part of our “Nature Center at Night” series, the nature center will be open until 7 pm this evening.

Fishing is a great way for kids and families to have fun outdoors, learn about conservation, and make happy memories. Join us to design and paint your own artificial fishing lures.

Artificial lures mimic fish, frogs, and other aquatic creatures to get big bites, especially from bass.

Painting your own gives you a chance to imagine yourself as a hungry fish looking for its next meal and can be fun for all ages.

Insects are found on every continent playing important roles and our world wouldn’t be the same without them. Discover what it takes to be an insect as we explore the fields and forest in pursuit of these 6-legged creatures.