About Wildcat Park
Hidden in the wide-open spaces near Shoal Creek, you’ll find 140 acres filled with some of the most precious natural treasures west of the Mississippi waiting for you to experience, explore and protect.
Wildcat Park Hours:
Dawn to Dusk
Location Address:
301 W. Riviera Drive, Joplin, MO
Office Phone: 417-708-7713
Education Center Hours:
Tuesday – Friday: 9am – 5pm
Saturday: 10am – 3pm
A Short Stroll Through History
The chert glades here, shaped by centuries of wind, fire and water are famous around the world… at least to naturalists. Their relative rarity means this is one of the few places in the United States they can be seen.
In the early 2000s, a $6 million multi-partnership between the National Audubon Society, the City of Joplin and the Missouri Department of Conservation created the Wildcat Glades Conservation & Audubon Center.
In 2018, The National Audubon Society handed ownership to the MDC and regional organizations to ensure this space would be managed and sustained locally,
It Takes a Village to Care for
Wildcat Park.
Actually, three villages work together, helping this space thrive throughout the seasons.
Wildcat Glades Nature Group (that’s us) main responsibility is restoring and protecting the habitat itself. A vast majority of the donations we receive go towards this purpose. We also provide education to visitors and engage our community about conservation efforts.
Missouri Department of Conservation manages the Wildcat Glades Natural Area, restores habitats and keeps our world-famous chert glades healthy for future generations.In addition, the MDC manages and runs the Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center and regulates the boat ramp.
Joplin Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for completing larger trail projects and patrolling our park.
The Indoors Here Are Pretty Great, Too.
Education Cottage
This is the pulse of our park. It’s where kids learn yoga under trees, parents learn the difference between a tortoise and a turtle, and grandparents finally learn the name of that plant.
With two covered porches, Wi-Fi and a cozy interior, it’s the perfect rental space for meetings, parties or reunions.
Wildcat Glades Nature Store
This quaint little store helps fund the Glades with an always-changing selection of nature-themed toys, books and educational kits.
Here you can:
- Pick up a fishing license before heading to Shoal Creek to “catch the big one”
- Grab some binoculars to spot more than 200 species of birds
- Stock up on Wildcat Glades swag (members get a discount )
FAQs
When is Wildcat Glades open?
Year-round, generally from 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The Nature Store and Education Cottage have separate hours — check our calendar before you visit.
Do I need to pay to enter?
Nope! Nature is free here. But donations are always welcome to help keep it that way.
What, exactly, is a chert glade?
It’s an uncommon, desert-like habitat formed on exposed chert bedrock. You’ll see plants like cacti and wildflowers growing side-by-side — a pretty odd botanical mix you won’t find many other places.
Can I rent the Education Cottage or pavilion?
Yes! We host everything from business meetings to birthday parties. Fees vary, but members pay less.
Can I bring my dog?
Leashed pets are always welcome on our trails. Just please clean up after them.
What if I want to learn more about Wildcat Glades?
Our volunteers lead themed hikes on topics like wildflowers, caves and local history. They’re free, but donations keep them going (hint).
How can I spend even more time here?
Lots of ways! Volunteer, become a member or join one of our classes. As long as you’ve got a green thumb, a knack for storytelling or just love fresh air, we’ve got a spot for you.
Board Members
Art Boyt
SolSource Greenbuild, LLC
Scott Butler
Chert Glades Master Naturalist
Misty Covvey
Vice President, Private Banking Guarantee Bank
Danielle Curtis
Student, MSSU
Jerry Downs
Retired Conservation Advocate
Clyde Eppard
Retired
Karen Garver
Chert Glades Master Naturalist/ Retired Liberty Utilities
Ivy Hagedorn
Downtown Alliance
Kelly Hock
Good Naturing
Charlie Keeter
Retired, Osborn Paper
Nathan Mordica
CPA- Ozark Center
Brit Stack
KOAM News Director
Dr. Jason Willand
MSSU
ROOTED IN GIVING
The Wildcat Glades Education Cottage wouldn’t be possible without our generous Members, Donors and Volunteers.
CLICK TO DONATE TODAY (PAYPAL)
Burr Oak
Sponsorship
The Strength of the Forest
As the highest and most prestigious level, Burr Oak sponsors are the sturdy pillars of our mission. Their contributions provide transformative support for conservation, education, and outreach. Burr Oak sponsors enjoy premier recognition across all events and platforms, personalized engagement opportunities, feature profiles, and year-round visibility as foundational partners in our growth.
A Burr Oak sponsorship requires a minimum annual contribution of $5,000.
Red Maple Sponsorship
Vibrant and Supportive
Red Maple sponsors play a pivotal role in nurturing our initiatives, representing the vivid energy and promise of our organization. This level includes significant recognition at signature events, enhanced visibility in communications and publications, and priority involvement in special projects. Red Maple partners are celebrated for their essential impact in shaping our programs and outreach.
Red Maple sponsors contribute a minimum annual donation of $2,500.
Sycamore
Sponsorship
Enduring Commitment
Sycamore sponsors provide dependable and enduring support, helping us lay down strong roots for the future. They are recognized on event signage, our website, and receive invitations to exclusive gatherings. Sycamore support allows us to maintain high-quality programming and engage more deeply with the community.
A Sycamore sponsorship requires a minimum annual contribution of $500.
Dogwood
Sponsorship
Blossoming Connections
Dogwood sponsors are the source of new growth and fresh connections. Their gifts help us reach broader audiences and plant seeds for future success. Dogwood partners receive acknowledgment in our newsletters, social media, and select community events, fostering lasting relationships and meaningful engagement.
A Dogwood sponsorship requires a minimum annual contribution of $250.