Missouri River Days Field Trip
Where Young Explorers Meet the Missouri River
Missouri River Days
Every fall and spring, something magical happens along our riverbanks. Fourth graders who've lived their whole lives just miles from the Missouri River finally get to meet it face-to-face.
For many kids, this is their first time touching river water, learning about pallid sturgeons, or understanding that the muddy water flowing past their town connects them to the entire continent. By the time they head back to school, they're not just students who visited the river—they're young people who belong to it.
The River as Classroom
We believe the best way to learn about the Missouri River is to spend time with it. That's why we bring fourth graders from Columbia Public Schools, Southern Boone, Jefferson City, Boonville, the Missouri School for the Deaf, and other local schools directly to the water's edge.
This isn't science you can learn from a textbook. This is hands-on discovery where the river itself becomes the teacher, and every question leads to another adventure.
Where We Meet:
- Cooper's Landing in Columbia
- Noren Access in Jefferson City
- Franklin Island Access in New Franklin
These half-day experiences happen during fall and spring when the river is at its most welcoming.
While at Missouri River Days, students will leave their lab coats and pocket protectors behind to do science, Missouri River Relief style! They will investigate the mysteries behind the longest river in North America and learn what makes it tick.
Missouri River Days in the News
- Check out the video below from our friends at the National Park Service
- KRCG-13 News "Missouri River Relief hosts Missouri River Days for Columbia fourth grade students"
- Columbia Missourian "Fourth graders paint, hit the water on Missouri River Days"
- Take a look at reflections from previous Missouri River Days trips
Four Stations, Countless "A-Ha!" Moments
During this field trip, students will develop a better understanding of the Missouri River through four experiences that include:
Station 1: Through the Eyes of an Explorer
Studying the observations and sketches from the scientific journals of Lewis and Clark, students will learn how to create a watercolor sketch of their own to bring home.
Station 3: Meet a Fisheries Biologist
Students get up close and personal with the fish that call the Missouri River home as they meet some of the scientists that are helping the river's ecosystem.
Station 2: Observation is a Skill
Using cottonwood forest as our laboratory, students will make careful observations and ask questions to learn about the plants found in the Missouri River bottom.
Station 4: Experience the River (Boat Ride)
Students will receive a one-of-a-kind learning experience that incorporates spectacular views of the Missouri River all while learning about the channelization of the river.
Frequently Asked Questions
Safety is our number one priority; we will provide students with a safety talk and lifejackets before going on the boat ride. Students and/or teachers do not need to know how to swim because we will not be entering the water. Experienced boat operators pilot our 26-foot aluminum plate boats that have all completed boat operator training and are assisted by deckhands.
Students and teachers will be on the Missouri River in a 26-foot open boat, with an aluminum plate and 200-horsepower marine motors.
To prepare your students, please make sure they come prepared with the following:
- Dress comfortably, bring a jacket and hat come prepared for the weather.
- Wear sturdy footwear that you are willing to get muddy. (i.e. sneakers/boots, no sandals)
Thank you to our Sponsors
This program is made possible by a grant from the National Park Foundation through generous support of partners including the Kao Family Foundation and donors across the country. We would also like to thank Veteran's United Foundation. This program is also made possible by funding from the Lewis and Clark Trail Alliance and the David A. Fleming Family Foundation, as well as Three Rivers Electric Cooperative. Thank you to our friends at Cooper's Landing Campground & Marina.
