Habitat Restoration
2025-05-31 09:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | MO
Come join us in removing invasive wintercreeper to make way for native plants to reclaim their space. Native plants feed native critters, and they also help prevent soil erosion, thereby improving the water quality of Shoal Creek. We will teach you how to identify and remove wintercreeper and we encourage you to discover the plants and animals that live in this area. We would love to help you identify and learn more about anything you find.We will meet at the old Redings Mill Bridge parking lot and then take a short walk to the work site. Please dress for the weather and working outside in the dirt. Protect yourself from poison ivy and the sun! We will provide gloves and water to refill your bottles. You are welcome to work the full three hours or leave whenever you need to, we are glad to have you with us for as long as you are able.

Trail Maintenance
2025-05-31 10:00 - 12:00 | Wildcat Glades Former Ball Fields, 201 W Riviera Drive, Joplin, MO, 64801, United States
The community is welcome to join Wildcat volunteers to widen the bluff trail. Bring your water bottle, wear sunscreen, closed toed shoes and be prepared to get sweaty. This is heavy work and not for the faint of heart. All participants must sign a waiver before participating. Meet volunteer Jerry at 10 am at the Wildcat Glades Education Cottage parking lot. (301 Riviera Drive Joplin- just past the Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center)

Cottage Rental
2025-05-31 12:30 - 16:30 | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage, 301 Riviera Drive, JOPLIN, MO, 64804, United States

Pavilion Rental
2025-06-01 12:00 - 16:00 | Wildcat Glades Pavilion, 2FHH+CP4, Joplin, MO, 64804, United States

Tuesday Workday
2025-06-03 08:00 - 10:30 | Wildcat Glades Former Ball Fields, 201 W Riviera Drive, Joplin, MO, 64801, United States
Every Tuesday morning, a dozen of our faithful volunteers gathers to do maintenance on the grounds, buildings and trails. The public is invited to stop by and see if this were something you would like to be involved with. However, in order to become a permanent part of this group, you will need to fill out volunteer paperwork.

Education Committee Meeting
2025-06-03 13:00 - 15:00 | MO
For more information on how to join this Wildcat volunteer group, contact robin@wildcatglades.org

Wildcat Glades Volunteer Education Committee Meeting
2025-06-03 13:00 - 15:00 | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage, 301 Riviera Drive, JOPLIN, MO, 64804, United States

Cottage- Private Event
2025-06-03 19:00 - 20:00 | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage, 301 Riviera Drive, JOPLIN, MO, 64804, United States

Private Class- Science 2 Jobs
2025-06-04 09:30 - 11:30 | MO

School Presentation- Closed Class
2025-06-04 09:30 - 11:30 | MO
Science 2 Jobs
Public is not able to attend.

Crawdads at the Creek
2025-06-06 18:30 - 20:30 | Wildcat Glades Pavilion, 2FHH+CP4, Joplin, MO, 64804, United States
Crawdads at the Creek 2025
We’re excited to invite you to Wildcat Glades’ fourth annual “Crawdads at the Creek” event! Everyone’s welcome to join us for a fun-filled evening by the creek, featuring a delightful crawdad dinner under a cozy, lit event tent. Enjoy live music, a dessert auction, yard games, and the chance to connect with nature while indulging in a tasty meal. Tickets are just $50 per person, and we’ll provide refreshing drinks, with alcoholic beverages available for purchase. We can’t wait to see you there and share this special experience together!

Preschool Connections: Snakes
2025-06-11 10:00 - 23:00 | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage, 301 Riviera Drive, JOPLIN, MO, 64804, United States
Welcome to “Sssensational Snakes!”
Slippery, scaly, and seriously cool—snakes have slithered their way through myths, jungles, deserts, and even your backyard. Today, we’re setting the record straight on these misunderstood reptiles and learning why they’re more fascinating than fearsome.
Hector, the misunderstood snake book

Leffen Center program
2025-06-11 12:00 - 13:00 | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage, 301 Riviera Drive, JOPLIN, MO, 64804, United States
Snakes with Mrs.Vicki

Preschool Connections: Snakes
2025-06-14 13:00 - 14:00 | MO

Show Me Water Safety
2025-06-21 10:00 - 12:00 | Wildcat Glades Pavilion, 2FHH+CP4, Joplin, MO, 64804, United States
Help us make a difference! Join our “Show Me Water Safety” event and be part of the solution to lowering injury and fatality rates in our local waterways. We’re committed to providing vital water safety education for everyone in our community. Learn practical skills and gain the knowledge you need to stay safe around streams and lakes. Together, we can create a safer summer for all.
For the Neosho event, contact the Neosho YMCA.

Solstice Hike
2025-06-21 10:00 - 13:00 | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage, 301 Riviera Drive, JOPLIN, MO, 64804, United States

Volunteer Gathering- A Private Event
2025-06-23 18:00 - 20:00 | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage, 301 Riviera Drive, JOPLIN, MO, 64804, United States

Camp Wildcat 2025
2025-06-30 - 2025-07-02 | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage, 301 Riviera Drive, JOPLIN, MO, 64804, United States
Camp Wildcat is going to be epic this year! Three days packed with fun teaching young naturalists how to survive! Sessions will include cane pole fishing, shelter building, orienteering, camouflage, leather working, and primitive skills just to name a few. Camp is for kids ages 7 to 14 and will take place at Wildcat Park June 30th, July 1st & July 2nd. Lunches, snacks, a fancy water bottle, a backpack are provided for each camper. Camp staff are still working out the details- but we are great big kids at heart- so it is going to be a blast. Sign up early to ensure your spot.
If you need a little financial help, scholarships are available.
Camp Wildcat 2025 is gearing up to be the most exciting adventure yet! This year, we’re offering three days packed with thrilling activities designed to teach young naturalists essential survival skills. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in:

cane pole fishing
shelter building
orienteering
camouflage
leather working
primitive skills

These sessions are just a taste of what’s in store! The camp is perfect for kids ages 7 to 14 and will be held at the beautiful Wildcat Park on June 30th, July 1st, and July 2nd. Each camper will receive lunches, snacks, a fancy water bottle, and a backpack to ensure they’re well-prepared for the adventure.
Our dedicated camp staff, who are big kids at heart, are working hard to finalize the details to ensure an unforgettable experience for all. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity – sign up early to secure your spot!
And don’t worry if you need a little financial assistance; scholarships are available to help ensure every child can join in the fun. Get ready for an epic summer at Camp Wildcat 2025!
For information on scholarships and other details, email robin@wildcatglades.org
.

Preschool Connections- Wooly Bear Caterpillar
2025-07-09 10:00 - 11:00 | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage, 301 Riviera Drive, JOPLIN, MO, 64804, United States
Preschool Connections: “Wooly Bear Caterpillar!” Free to Attend
Wednesday, July 9th, 10 am to 11 am OR Saturday, July 12th 1pm at the Wildcat Glades Education Cottage
For ages 3 – 7 accompanied by an adult
Program sponsored by Calvin Cassidy
Caterpillars come in many bright colors! Have you ever wondered what they become? Join us to learn about their amazing transformation into butterflies and enjoy a fun caterpillar craft with some playtime!
Discover “Wooly Bear Caterpillar” as read by our very own Ms. Vicki.
To register, visit https://bit.ly/WoolyCaterpillars or email sara@wildcatglades.org

Preschool Connections: Wooly Bear
2025-07-12 13:00 - 14:00 | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage, 301 Riviera Drive, JOPLIN, MO, 64804, United States

Shoal Creek Water Festival
2025-07-19 10:00 - 14:00 | Wildcat Glades Pavilion, 2FHH+CP4, Joplin, MO, 64804, United States
Wildcat Park
Saturday, July 19, 2025, 10 am – 2:00 pm
Generously sponsored by Missouri American Water
This event is an absolute blast! Get ready for some awesome activities like cardboard boat races crafted by clever and brave participants, shoebox boat races where kids can showcase their cool creations, and a thrilling rubber duck race. Plus, there will be snow cones, food, live entertainment, and tons of fun for the whole family! Want to join in on the cardboard or shoebox boat races? Please read below.
Please fill out the registration forms & return them to robin@wildcatglades.org. Please remember to submit your registration fee. That can be done on this website. They are listed on the tickets. If you have difficulties, contact us. Don’t worry, we want you in the races!
Boat Entry Adults 2025
Boat Entry Teen 2025
https://bit.ly/CBRAdult
https://bit.ly/CardboardRaceTeen

Cardboard Boats

Participating in the Cardboard Boat Race is a fantastic way for your organization to bond and have a blast! Imagine designing, naming, building, and sailing your very own boat, cheered on by families and other team members on race day. This event offers some incredible benefits:

Improves communication – Shouting about waterproofing over cardboard? Why not!
Ignites creativity – Who knew cardboard could be transformed into such masterpieces?
Strengthens relationships – Rowing together certainly brings folks closer.
Boosts morale – Nothing beats the cheers of victory (or even hilarious defeat)
Sharpens problem-solving skills – Can that cardboard handle the waves? Let’s find out.
Promotes generosity – Sharing duct tape never felt so good.

The boats are made entirely from cardboard and powered by paddlers. They will race down Shoal Creek, competing for honor, glory, bragging rights, and unique trophies. Categories include Solo, Tandem, and Team.
By joining our fleet, you’ll:

Have an unforgettable adventure – Seriously, this is one for the memory books.
Be part of something epic – The cardboard fleet awaits you.
Gain recognition and prestige – You’re going to be a legend.
Support Wildcat Glades Park – Feel good while having fun.
Race in a safe environment – Safety first, fun second.

COMMITMENT

Captains and crews eager to compete in the Shoal Creek Water Festival Cardboard Boat Race commit to the following:

Build a boat using only cardboard and duct tape. Get creative!
Make sure all boats are human powered (bring your own oars or paddles).
Dive fully into the event, which includes:
Bringing your completed boat to the wharf on Saturday, July 19 at 9 a.m.
Participating in the brief awards ceremony after the race
Cleaning up or removing your boat after the race
Registering your boat by July 17th at 5 p.m.

Ready to set sail on this fun-filled journey? Let’s get crafting!
Construction Materials

Permissible Materials:
Materials NOT Allowed:

Corrugated Cardboard
Wood, Styrofoam

Appliance or grocery stores

Plastic sheathing

Cardboard “blocks”

Furniture stores
Fiberglass

Cardboard Tubes Carpet/linoleum stores
Sona-Tubes, coated cardboard

Silicon, Wax, Tar

Fastening material

Duct or masking tape Liquid nails adhesive
Caulking compounds

Latex Paint, Varnish
Metal

Staples, clamps, screws

Judges decide on the interpretation of the rules

The ENTIRE boat must be built of cardboard, duct tape, and one-part polyurethane. (Any part of your boat that touches the water must be cardboard. This includes the hull, decking, keel, cowling, superstructure, oar locks, seating and Nuts, bolts, washers and staples are NOT allowed in hull construction. The cardboard may be as thick as you want, but may not be glued or attached to wood, plastic, fiberglass, etc.)

Only exceptions are the paddles & decorations

Use cardboard boxes, “blocks”, carpet tubes
NO pre-treated cardboard allowed
NO wood, plastic, Styrofoam or fiberglass
NO caulking compounds or two-part/mixed adhesives
NO wrapping in plastic or fiberglass
Decorations are encouraged as long as they don’t effect structural strength or buoyancy
Boats CANNOT tow anything behind them for the safety of other
Every crewmember must wear a PERSONAL FLOATATION DEVICE (PFD) & proper Please provide your own PFDs.
All crew members MUST sign a Participant Waiver/Hold Harmless Agreement on race Boats will not be allowed to race without a signed agreement from each race participant
All boats are human powered (oars and paddles you provide are acceptable as propulsion tools)

Shoebox Boat Races for kids ages 3 to 12

Kids Shoebox Boat Race
Updated Shoebox Boat Rules and registration 2025
https://bit.ly/ShoeboxRace2025
People’s Choice Judging 9 to 11:45 Races Begin at Noon

Registration: Completed registration form and $5 entry fee (non-refundable) must be received by Wildcat Glades
Nature Group by Thursday, July 17, 2025
Mail check and registration to: Wildcat Glades Nature Group, P.O. Box 3063, Joplin, MO 64803 To pay by debit, call Robin Standridge at 417-291-3156 or you can pay directly in the Nature Store.
Allowable Materials – CARDBOARD SHOEBOXES ONLY – NO EXCEPTIONS – NO WIDER THAN 9 inches.

Boats failing to comply with construction rules will race but are not eligible for cash prizes.
Shoeboxes only to be used as boat’s main structure.
Duct tape may be used. This is the only acceptable tape.
Water based one-part paint.
Elmer’s White or Wood Glue (or equivalent).

Banned Materials –

NO wood, metal or plastic materials used to build boat body.
NO cardboard materials that have been waxed, waterproof, sealed or reinforced or otherwise treated in manufacturing process.
NO substance harmful to the environment.
NO two-part paints (requiring hardener or catalyst, i.e.: no epoxy glue, resins or varnishes).
NO silicon, caulks, tar wax, Vaseline, polyurethane or other waterproofing agents.
NO staples, nails, clamps or foam core materials, including pool noodles or floaters.

Judging –

Ties to be resolved by a race-off.
Judges will have final decision on rule interpretation.

Prizes-

First 50 registrants will receive a free bag.
Cash prizes: $25/first place speed, $15/second place speed/ $10 third place
$25 People’s Choice (to be determined by popular vote, 25 cents per vote – start raising your money now!)

Need help building your boat? View our website and Facebook page (Wildcat Glades) for ideas on boat building. Visit: www.wildcatglades.org for more details and to register.

Duck Race
🌊🐥 Get ready for a splashing good time at the most exciting duck race of the year! Join us on Saturday, July 19th, at 2:15 pm for a quacking adventure that you won’t want to miss!
Purchase your very own numbered duck and get in on the action—these little racers are available for buying until noon on race day. Not only will you be supporting your favorite nature group, but you also have a chance to snag amazing prizes totaling nearly $1000! 🎉
The best part? You don’t have to be present to win! If you’re lucky enough to snag a prize and decide to stick around, you’ll get the thrill of choosing your very own reward! But don’t worry if you can’t stay; we’ll securely hold your prize at the Wildcat Glades Nature Store (201 W Riviera Drive, Joplin, MO) for 30 days. Just remember to make arrangements for pickup, or else the prize will be forfeited.
So rally your friends, grab a duck, and let the race begin! It’s going to be a wild and wonderful day out in nature! 🦆✨

Nature Explorers: Camping 101
2025-07-25 18:00 - 19:00 | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage, 301 Riviera Drive, JOPLIN, MO, 64804, United States
Nature Explorers: Camping 101
Free to Attend
Friday, July 25th 6-7 pm at the Wildcat Education Cottage
For ages 7-14
Embark on a learning journey with us as we uncover the secrets of camping. Camping is a fantastic way to spend your summer, and we’re here to ensure you’re well-prepared. Bring your explorers to learn the art of setting up and packing their tent, being ready for a bustling camping area, and choosing the ideal campsite. Campers will learn outdoor safety & fire-building skills in a kid friendly format. Campers in training will wrap up the evening by roasting marshmallows. To equip yourself with knowledge, visit our Facebook page or call us to register.

KCU- We Care Day
2025-08-08 08:00 - 11:00 | MO
Private Event

Tuesday Crew Workday
2025-08-12 08:00 - 10:00 | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage, 301 Riviera Drive, JOPLIN, MO, 64804, United States
Looking for a hands-on way to make a lasting impact? Join the Tuesday Crew—Wildcat Glades’ dedicated trail maintenance team! Every Tuesday morning, volunteers of all skill levels come together to clear paths, restore natural beauty, and keep the glades safe and accessible for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just eager to roll up your sleeves, you’ll find camaraderie, purpose, and plenty of fresh air. Tools and guidance are provided, so all you need is a willingness to pitch in.
Be part of the crew that keeps Wildcat Glades thriving—one step, one trail, and one Tuesday at a time!

Wildcat Glades Nature Group Board Meeting
2025-08-12 17:30 - 18:30 | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage, 301 Riviera Drive, JOPLIN, MO, 64804, United States

Preschool Connections: ANTS!!!
2025-08-13 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-08-16 13:00 - 14:00 | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage, 301 Riviera Drive, JOPLIN, MO, 64804, United States
Prepare to step into the extraordinary world of ants! At our upcoming gathering, we’ll dive into the secrets of “Ant Cities,” discovering how these tiny architects construct complex underground societies. Become an ant explorer as we venture outdoors to observe real ant trails, decode their teamwork, and marvel at their strength. Ant-themed songs will get us moving like a colony on the march, and you’ll create your very own ant craft to take home—a little piece of the bustling world beneath our feet. Join us for an evening where it’s all about ants: their teamwork, their adventure, and their fascinating lives!
Please register by visiting https://bit.ly/40G9aXE

Habitat Restoration Workday
2025-08-16 09:00 - 12:00 | Reding’s Mill Bridge, MO, United States
Come join us in removing invasive wintercreeper to make way for native plants to reclaim their space. Native plants feed native critters, and they also help prevent soil erosion, thereby improving the water quality of Shoal Creek. We will teach you how to identify and remove wintercreeper and we encourage you to discover the plants and animals that live in this area. We would love to help you identify and learn more about anything you find.
We will meet at the old Redings Mill Bridge parking lot and then take a short walk to the work site. Please dress for the weather and working outside in the dirt. Protect yourself from poison ivy and the sun! We will provide gloves and water to refill your bottles. You are welcome to work the full three hours or leave whenever you need to, we are glad to have you with us for as long as you are able. If you need to come in late just walk the trail west of the parking lot and you will find us!

Nature Explorers: Splash Into Missouri's Aquatic Turtles!
2025-08-16 18:00 - 19:00 | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage, 301 Riviera Drive, JOPLIN, MO, 64804, United States
Dive into the world of our freshwater turtle friends! Kids ages 7–14 will explore local species in a hands-on nature class.

Wildcat Glades Volunteer Gathering
2025-08-25 18:00 - 20:00 | MO
Enjoy Hamburgers, Community, and Conservation
Join us at Wildcat Glades Nature Group for a volunteer gathering filled with good food, nature, and community spirit. Set along scenic Shoal Creek, Wildcat Glades is a nonprofit committed to preserving Missouri’s rare chert glade ecosystems through education, restoration, and hands-on service.
Event Overview
This gathering is open to everyone—no experience necessary. Meet fellow nature lovers, enjoy a classic hamburger cookout, and learn how you can help protect Wildcat Glades’ unique landscapes and wildlife.
About Wildcat Glades Nature Group
The Nature Group focuses on conserving chert glades, offering workshops, guided hikes, and opportunities for all ages to get involved. Volunteers support habitat restoration, trail work, and community outreach, ensuring the glades thrive for generations.
