Greene

Join Naturalist Sam Grove to learn about cave biology, cave ethics, and how to safely go caving. Meet at the Nature Center for an indoor presentation, then carpool to an MDC-owned cave near Springfield. No prior caving experience is required, but participants must be able to climb and crawl. Bring an extra change of clothes and shoes.

Ha Ha Tonka State Park has many attractions, including springs, caves, sinkholes, and a castle. We will hike 4-5 miles on trails rated moderate to difficult. Wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring a sack lunch, water bottle, and binoculars if you like. Meet at the Nature Center and carpool.

Have an adventure at the Nature Center and learn different ways to enjoy the outdoors as we team up with the Springfield-Greene County Library during their summer reading program, Adventure Begins at Your Library. Bring your entire family to enjoy outdoor and indoor activities, stories, crafts and more. Drop by anytime and plan on spending at least an hour. The Mobile Library will be present during the program, so bring your library card. All ages.

With so many great places to go backpacking in the Ozarks, why not give it a try? Learn where to go, what to take, and how to prepare for a backpacking trip. This program is designed for adults, but all ages are welcome if accompanied by an adult.

Kingfishers are cool little birds with a big voice and lots of personality. We will learn where they live, what they eat, and more!

Kingfishers are cool little birds with a big voice and lots of personality. We will learn where they live, what they eat, and more!

Volunteer Naturalist Myra Scroggs will help you find some common nesting birds during this indoor and outdoor program. Ages 7 to adult.

Learn some identification tips and birding basics, including how to properly use binoculars. We’ll start with a short presentation in the classroom and then hit the trails to look for birds. Ages 7 to adult.

A Missouri summer may be relaxing, but it’s hardly quiet! We’ll discuss who is singing during these summer months and learn about the animals around you. All ages. Registration required. Please include a valid email address when you register so we can send you a virtual program link. This program will not be recorded.

Join us for a guided hike as we learn about turtles and keep our eyes peeled for these shelled reptiles. All ages.