Kemper Outdoor Education Center

Nestled in the Fleming Park Nature Preserve on the east side of Lake Jacomo, the Kemper Outdoor Education Center is a haven for nature lovers and educators.


Location


Fleming Park
8201 Jasper Bell
Blue Springs, MO 64015
Phone: 816-229-8980
Email
Directions

Map


Find it on the map.

Hours



April 1 -May 31


  • Monday-Friday
  • 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
  • Closed Memorial Day

June 3 - August 9


Closed to the public on weekdays while the Jacomo Summer Camp is in session.

August 12 - September 27


  • Monday-Friday
  • 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
  • Closed Labor Day

Special Events


The Kemper Outdoor Education Center plays host to the popular Dogtober Fest event, now in its 41st year.

Nature Center & Nature Trails


Inside the Nature Center you’ll find rock and fossil exhibits, a natural resource library, mounted examples of native wildlife. The grounds feature nature trails, butterfly and water gardens, wildlife viewing areas, an arboretum, a shelter house, large pond and a day camp site.
Children holding a sheet up in the wind
The Outdoor Classroom offers a valuable resource for hands-on environmental education. Hikers on the Habitat Trail can explore a variety of ecology: wetland, prairie, woodland and cactus glade.

Self-guided tours are free of charge.

Environmental Education Programs


The Kemper Outdoor Education Center staff offers guided interpretive programs for classrooms, youth groups and organizations. In April, May, August and September, the X-Stream Green field trip program offers multi-station outdoor education for 1st to 5th grade classrooms. The interpretive staff conducts programs on Snakes, Bats, Skins and Skulls, Fishing, Recycling, Nature Hikes and much more. Download a full description (PDF).


Educational Workshops


The Kemper Outdoor Education Center also offers Educational Workshops throughout the year for all ages. Click here to view and register for our upcoming Workshops.

Jacomo Summer Camp


The Kemper Outdoor Education Center is also home to the Jacomo Summer Camp for ages 6 to 13. This outdoor education/outdoor recreation program promises kids a summer they'll never forget. Activities include swimming, canoeing, kayaking, archery, hiking, camping skills, nature study, field trips, arts and crafts, sports and games.


Site Available For Rent


The grounds, water gardens, shelter house and pool area are available to rent for picnics, family reunions, pool parties and weddings.
A group of kids playing in a swimming pool