Join staff members at First Missouri State Capitol State Historic Site to make a beautiful handcrafted basket. This event is part of a series of monthly basket weaving classes held at the site. Each class runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. All materials will be supplied, although you may wish to bring snacks and a drink. If the weather is nice, the class may be held outside; otherwise, it will take place in the interpretive center upstairs on the second floor. The second floor is NOT ADA accessible and only accessed via stairs. Class size is limited, and registration is required. Registration for the January through June classes opens Jan. 3; registration for the July to November classes opens June 2. You may sign up for any day that a particular class is being offered. The $5 registration fee is separate and not part of the advertised class cost. Please check our website or Facebook page for individual class costs. You may also sign up for multiple classes. For more information call the historic site at 636-940-3322.

Barbecue/Grill your best ribs, chicken, and/or burgers for a chance to win this competition. Prizes will be given for each category of ribs, chicken, and burgers. You can sign up for one, two, or all three categories. If multiple people are cooking as a team, only 1 person needs to sign up for each category. Judging will begin at 7 pm near the check station in the East Campground on October 25, 2025.

1. Campsite decorating - Participants are encouraged to decorate their campsite for Halloween and participate in trick-or-treating for the kids. A group of judges will score based on theme, originality, lights, and attention to detail. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. ALL PARK RULES STILL APPLY! (No nailing to trees/buildings, damaging any resources, etc.) Any violation of the park rules will result in immediate elimination from the contest. Judging for the contest will begin at 7 pm on October 25, 2025.

Join expert astronomers to view and learn about the night sky! Telescopes will be provided, but feel free to bring your own too! Meet at the Visitor Center parking lot at Onondaga Cave State Park. These programs are subject to being rescheduled due to inclement weather and cloud coverage.

Begin your archer journey by attending a hands-on workshop this summer! Take a step back in time and join Missouri State Parks for the Learn2 Aim event. This is a great opportunity to learn new skills with joint instruction on the basics of archery and atlatl throwing. The program is free and available to ages 10 and up. Missouri State Parks provides the equipment and expertise in a safe environment – you bring your enthusiasm to learn a skill that ties back to Missouri history.

This summer, staff will be offering kayaking instruction at select Missouri state parks. This will be a great opportunity to try something new and experience some of Missouri's lakes. We supply the equipment and the expertise; you supply the enthusiasm and an eagerness to discover nature and a new skill. Missouri State Parks Provides: Kayaks. Paddle. Life jackets. Instructors. You Provide: A good attitude and willingness to learn. Appropriate swimwear and footwear.