Outdoor Fun with the Missouri Department of Conservation

I’m always amazed at the people on the reality show Survivor. It seems like none of them know how to make fire. Wouldn’t you learn that before you left home? Perhaps they should enroll in the Missouri Department of Conservation’s upcoming event Campfires 101: Snack, Crackle and Pop.

In this class, your family will learn the ins and outs of building a successful campfire. You’ll be taught the basics of campfire building, the uses, benefits and dangers of fire and the proper construction of three types of campfires. Then you’ll get a hands-on practice building your own campfire. The evening ends with traditional campfire activities and snacks. Mmmmm s’mores...

If you have already mastered the art of fire, the Missouri Department of Conservation has many classes to help make your outdoor experience even better. Have your kids ever seen a bat? Attend MDC’s Goin’ Batty program and learn about the bats that live in Missouri’s caves. Your family will also find out about the dreaded White Nose Syndrome (WNS) that is threatening local bats and their habitats. Don’t forget your flashlight and bug spray.

 Campfires 101is taking place on Saturday, August 21 at Columbia Bottom Conservation Area from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday. It’s suitable for kids 6 and older. Goin’ Batty is happening on Friday, August 20 from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Rockwoods Reservation. Kids must be 7 or older to attend. These events are free, but you must register by August 20 for both of them. Click here for more information or to register. Or you can call 314-877-6014 for Campfires 101or 636-458-2236 for Goin’ Batty.