"Shaw Nature Reserve strives to inspire responsible stewardship of our environment through education, restoration and protection of natural habitats, and public enjoyment of the natural world."-mission of Shaw Nature Reserve

Shaw Nature Reserve Hours

Current Seasonal Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 
Last entry: 30 minutes before closing

  • Annual Seasonal Hours:
    • January–March:   8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
    • April–May:  8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • June–August 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
    • September: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • October–December: 8 a.m to 5 p.m.
  • Early Morning Access Form for Members 
  • The Bascom House is currently closed to the public. 
  • Hours may be modified, limited in capacity, and subject to availability or closure. 
  • Plan your visit, including directions and visitor etiquette. 
  • All groups must make a reservation. Call (314) 577-9555 or email to check availability.
Tickets

Advance dated tickets are recommended for all Nature Reserve admissions (including free admission for Missouri Botanical Garden members). Purchase your tickets in advance using the links below.

Free for children ages 12 and under

  • $5.00

    General Admission

    Ages 13 and up Buy Tickets
  • Free

    Children

    Ages 3–12 Buy Tickets
  • Free

    Members Admission

    Individual, Garden, and Friends & Family Members Get Tickets
  • Free

    Festival+ Members

    Festival & Garden Giving Society Members Get Tickets
  • $3

    Seniors Rate

    Seniors 65+ Buy Tickets
Visitor Info & Guidelines

Service animals are welcome but pets are not permitted at Shaw Nature Reserve. We recommend visiting state and county parks if you want to take your pet on your hike.

St. Louis County parks pet page
Missouri State parks pet page
Service animal policy

Additional Visitor Guidelines

  • The rights of other visitors to Shaw Nature Reserve must always be respected. Review all detailed information by clicking here. 
  • No smoking, including electronic cigarettes.
  • Leave what you find. No collecting of any kind.
  • Bicycles are permitted on roads only. No weapons, fires, alcoholic beverages, hunting, fishing, grilling, or swimming.
  • No commercial photography or videography. Abide by the Wedding and Bridal Photo Policy.  Individual and family photography must follow our Policy
  • Clothing and shoes must be worn at all times. 
  • Artists are permitted and must keep walkways clear. Entering garden beds is prohibited. 
  • Meetings and gatherings are not allowed without advance space rental. 
  • Non-school classes led by an instructor not affiliated with the Missouri Botanical Garden are not permitted. 
Events & Classes

There is always something to do and see at Shaw Nature Reserve. See our upcoming classes and events below.

 

 

Winter Class Registration Is Now Open!

Class Catalog:
Go to Online Registration

Download a Print-at-home Catalog:
Fall 2024
Winter 2024

 

Shaw Nature Reserve 100 | Nature for all. Nature forever.

Shaw Nature Reserve Centennial Celebration

Join us throughout 2025 for special events and activities commemorating 100 years of the Nature Reserve. 

Watch this space for more information soon. 

 

 

 

Location & Parking

Shaw Nature Reserve is easily accessible from the St. Louis metro area and conveniently located near Interstate 44.

Registration is now open for Whitmire Wonderlights! Register here

Registration is open for fall and winter programs! View full class list and register >