Events

Want to take dove poppers to the next level? Then enjoy learning how to make dove chile rellenos. During this program we’ll learn about what cuts is best to use from a dove along with the best way to make dove chile rellenos.

Gather ‘round ye olde campfire and let us tell you a story…. To welcome the first day of autumn, the staff of Cape Girardeau Nature Center is lighting a campfire and inviting you to join us. Grab your family and gather ‘round as we read aloud nature-themed picture books, present a short program, and sing campfire songs at the nature center firepit. The nature center will provide sumac tea and a small campfire-themed snack.

With the arrival of fall the next generation of many of our reptile species will start hatching. In this presentation we’ll go over which reptiles are hatching and what they look like to be able to distinguish them from each other. 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 lessons 3 and 4 which are best completed after lessons 1 and 2. Participants will learn about Missouri freshwater ecosystems, common fish, artificial lures, and the regulations regarding fishing in Missouri. The Discover Nature-Fishing program is available for ages 7 and up. We will host this program at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center. Participants will not be required to have a valid fishing license and those who have already completed lessons 1 and 2 will receive fishing related rewards.

Is it hard to find time in your busy schedule to make time for exercise? Let alone, motivate yourself to get up early to exercise when you’re the only one? Join us on this sunrise hike before work and enjoy the beauty of nature and a community of other early-morning walkers as you hike one of our nature center trails. We will be hiking along one of our nature center trails, which is moderately difficult with steep grades of over 15% and is not ADA-accessible.

Discover what the river has to offer you! Hands-on activities will teach you the importance of the Mississippi River and surrounding wetlands. This event is fun for the entire family featuring live river animals and free boat rides on the Mississippi with Missouri Department of Conservation river experts. Boat rides are first come, first served, and will take place between 10 am and 1:30 pm. This event is located at Riverfront Park depending on river levels.