Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center

We drove all the way in to the creek. We didn't have time to wonder down any of the trails, but took a little time to view what looked like a natural spring that ran into the river. Large tree (and i mean large) is shading the rock wall area where picnic tables sit below in the shade. Great little place to stop for a little get away off the beaten path.

Well, it's been years since I've been here... as a matter of fact a conservation center was not even here the last time I came down here.My brother, sisters and myself came here with a photographer as we had family pictures done this weekend. The park on a whole looked really nice with some very beautiful spots to choose from for a family picture. Fact: Missouri's strongest year-round waterfall is right down the street at Grand Falls. Great pics cane be taken there as well.

This place freaking rocks! The hole 4 mike trail is awesome, I think it's so awesome to see so many different geological types in one smallish area. The center is also well stocked and helpful. There is a fair amount of city noise , traffic, etc.. but it's worth the minor distraction. Some parts of the trail are very difficult, but there are modifications for people that can't handle the steep incline parts.

The Wildcat Glades Conservatory and Audubon center was open in 2007 and is a beautiful nature center very close to I-44. In the center you can learn about the local ecosystem and ecology. Everybody is very nice and helpful there, so make sure to ask the staff if you have questions. They can give you trail maps, bird lists and other information. There are educational exhibits of lizards, snakes, tarantulas, flora and bird feeders. My favorite part of that center was the large glass windows where I could watch multiple species of local birds at the feeders without scaring them away!Right out side of the beautiful building is spectacular hiking along the Shoal creek and in the rare chert glades. These hikes are paved and non-strenuous. All hikes are great for children and people of all abilities. I really enjoyed visiting and I will be sure to stop by again next time I'm in Joplin!

The Wildcat Glades Conservation & Audubon Center is temporarily closed during renovations and eventual transfer to the Missouri Department of Conservation. It will re-open as a Center/Project of the Missouri Department of Conservation later this summer or fall.Wildcat Park and its beautiful trails, scenic overlooks, and streams, will remain open to the public as normal.

On those weekends we aren't off exploring and find ourselves home one of our favorite places to go is Wildcat Glades. We like to hike the whole thing! The trails are well maintained but not overly invasive to surrounding nature. Very clean!! The view from the top aka Mother Natures Crack" is beautiful. Would not recommend young children hike that trail because there are parts that are very narrow and it's a steep fall. It's a great way to spend an afternoon and get rejuvenated. Oh and we LOVE the gift shop. Great place to buy gifts!!

This is a beautifully well laid out visitors center. The staff are very friendly and knowledgeable, the restrooms clean and well kept, and the displays fun and informative. The gift small was a bit small but had some pretty neat clothing and educational material. As the previous reviewer said, there are several bird feeders out side both sides of the center where you can see various local bird species up close. It's also true that the trail is mild and seems pretty good for all age groups though we didn't go very far. As we were there towards the end of summer it was very hot and not a great deal of activity aside from some cardinals, a couple of woodpeckers, a circling turkey vulture or two and a red tailed hawk. We will definitely return though to see what wintering birds show up! This place is well worth the visit for anyone interested in conservation, the local ecology and for the birds of course!

The Audubon pulled out July 2018, & the Center has been closed for renovations. The state MO dept of conservation now owns the building & a parcel of land around it. The city of Joplin, with the assistance of the Wildcat Glades Friends Group are working to maintain the trails. The Friends Group continues to offer nature classes & activities. Trails are open dawn to dusk. The Eagles Nest Child play area will be moved to the old ball field this spring by the Friend Group volunteers. The pavilion on Shoal Creek is available to use & for rental for birthday parties, etc. Like us on Facebook page Wildcat Glades Friends Group for itineraries of events!

This place is great. Loads of educational fun for young and old. I love the trails and the great terrain. We spent Mother's day here last year and it was the best. I highly recommend this great spot!

This is a lovely facility to visit. Very educational and informative! The walking trails are great! You may bring your dog on a leash. Be sure to bring your little poopie bags for any waste. I definitely think you should visit there!