runge conservation nature center

Great nature area and lots of trails to walk. Easy access off hwy 50. Lots of areas to rest and just enjoy nature, deer and turkeys abound on the trails

Runge is a go to place both for the programs they offer and the hiking trails. This month we went to see the Eagles Adventure which featured a Live Eagles Show, Crafts, a film and information booth. It was wonderful.

The Runge is a lovely conversation center on the west side of Jefferson City. As wonderful as it was a couple of days ago, I can only imagine how lovely it is in the summer. The day we went was New Year's eve and they had a story teller, a fish feeding and several arts and craft projects going on. The place is staffed by many older folks who may be volunteers but are friendly, helpful and informative. I mention the fish feeding because it's a big deal around the place. There is a HUGE indoor aquarium where at least once a month, the children are invited to stand by and watch the very brave volunteer climb on top of the aquarium and feed the fish. All the fish are native to Missouri, bass, catfish, sunfish, crappie etc and when the volunteer climbed to top to drop live minnows and fish food inside, there was a feeding frenzy that would make the boys on "Shark Week" jealous! The kids were in absolute awe as were the grandparents :o) There are plenty of places to sit down if you have a bad knees or back (like many grandparents do right?) clean restrooms, two water fountains and a little gift shop. It's a great place to spend the day with your kids or grandkids and it's FREE!!! Thank you Missouri for making this adventure available to everyone!

Wandering around in the building is a calming treat, with beautiful views of the woods around. The nature trails are very nice. There is always something going on at the center. It is a nice way to spend an afternoon.

We visit the center without granddaughters who love to show us their place. The girls like the exhibits and activities as well.

This place is great to take the kids and let them experience nature. We took our daughter, niece and nephew while visiting and glad we did. The nature center had a lot of information on native animals including stuffed specimens and how those animals live but also included live animals which helped keep the kids interested. The outdoor area was great also and we wished we had more time to explore. We figured with the loud kids we would not see any animals but we did get to see some turkeys on one loop. We did run into some people who saw deer so if you go make sure it is early and you stay quite and you should see something.

Deer, turkeys, squirrels, etc. We saw all sorts of animals and were able to get closer to them than normal. The pathways are paved and there are many trails to choose from depending on how much time you have right in Jeff City! Will definitely be back!

Great hands on exhibits for the kids of all ages. Indoor viewing area of birds and squirrels outside feeding. Wonderful paved trails to take a gentle walk through natural setting.

The Runge Center is one of those best kept secrets for most Jefferson City locals. It is tucked away on the west end of town and is a great place to visit to explore and learn about nature in the heart of a city.

This has been a hidden gem in Jefferson City since before we lived here. I can always forward my phone and walk the trails to recharge my batteries while not being out of touch. Fellow visitors are largely a quiet and respectful lot and it never feels crowded. This is the one place I always take young visitors - it is a hit for all ages. I never tire of roaming the well-designed museum. I learn something about my surroundings every time.

Range has great outdoor walking trails and some stream access for kids to play in the water. Inside kids can enjoy the interactive nature center. My boys have enjoyed visits there for years. There is also a wildlife viewing area and a quiet reading room. The staff and volunteers are great. The center has frequent programming for all age levels.

My husband and I are both nature lovers. We went here and saw some great blue herons and other types of birds. There are a couple of nice hiking trails and it's all free

My wife, daughter, and I stopped here for a picnic lunch on our drive west. We were just looking for a park to stop at but happened upon this place. While a hot day, it was nice to be able to sit outside and eat lunch here. We went inside the visitors center and Judith told us all about the place and made our daughter's day with a few stickers at the end of our visit.We toured the exhibits inside and helped our daughter do the animal scavenger hunt. It was very fun and educational. We didn't stay to see any of the presentations and really didn't look into their library as we had to get back on the road. Still, this was a very nice place to stop and if we ever drive through here again, we'll be sure to stop in and try to hike a trail or two.

The trails were well groomed and we spotted deer near the path. 3 wild turkey crossed in front of us. The museum exhibits were well done for any age group to enjoy.

Gorgeous! They have absolutely outdone themselves here. Plus all the fun stuff inside the Nature Center for kids and adults to enjoy is awesome!