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Scenic overlook at sunset

Enjoy Exclusive Access to Shaw Nature Reserve!

Become a Nature Partners Passholder Today


Shaw Nature Reserve is an extraordinary place to experience the beauty of Missouri’s native habitats. Garden members can enjoy the Nature Reserve even more with exclusive early morning and evening access through the Nature Partners Pass.

As a Nature Partners Passholder, you will be able to experience the Nature Reserve during sunrise and sunset—when the light is soft, the trails are quiet, and wildlife is at its most active. But you’re not just unlocking privileged hours at one of the region’s most scenic spots—you’re helping to protect it. Your purchase of a pass—along with your Garden membership—supports the Nature Reserve’s restoration and protection of native biodiversity and natural habitats.

Perks of the Nature Partners Pass (exclusively for Missouri Botanical Garden members):

  • Exclusive access to Shaw Nature Reserve before and after regular public hours
  • Deeper connection to nature as you enjoy sunrise and sunset throughout the seasons
  • Direct support of the Nature Reserve’s work to restore and protect native biodiversity
  • Exclusive Nature Partner Pass updates with information about special events, seasonal highlights, and nature programs

2026 Nature Partners Pass Schedule

Nature Partners Pass Admission Grid

FAQs About This Member Benefit


Do I have to be a member of the Missouri Botanical Garden to purchase a pass?

Yes, you must have an active membership with the Missouri Botanical Garden to purchase a Nature Partners Pass. Your pass will no longer be active if your Garden membership expires. 
 

How much does it cost to buy a pass? 

  • Passes for 2026 are on sale now for $25. Passholders have immediate access through December 31, 2026. 
  • Passes will cost $15 if purchased after July 6, 2026. Access extends through December 31, 2026. 
     

Where can I buy a Nature Partners Pass?

At this time, new passholders can enroll for this benefit in-person at the Shaw Nature Reserve Visitor Center or by calling the Garden’s Contact Center at (314) 577-5100.


How long is my pass valid?

Your pass is active from the date of purchase through the end of the calendar year. For example, if you purchase a pass on March 1, 2026, your benefit is active until December 31, 2026. Please note, if your Garden membership lapses, your pass will no longer be active. 
 

How does my pass work?

Once you purchase a pass, you will be issued a hang tag for your vehicle and a code that opens the gates at the main entrance of the Nature Reserve. Your gate code is uniquely associated with your membership and will grant you access to the site during extended hours. Passholders are required to display their hang tag in their vehicle at all times when visiting the Nature Reserve. 
 

When is the Nature Reserve open to the public?

Shaw Nature Reserve is open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. year-round, excluding Mondays in January and February, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
 

Are there any times when my gate code will not work?

Yes. Gate codes will be deactivated on days when the Nature Reserve is also closed to the general public. This includes select holidays, dates for scheduled site maintenance, and closures due to inclement weather. Please check our website before you visit for up-to-date information on site closures.
 

What are the guidelines for passholders?

Passholders are expected to follow all of the Nature Reserve’s visitor guidelines. Your gate code may not be shared. A registered passholder must be present whenever the gate code is used. The Nature Partners Pass cannot be used as a substitute for a photography permit. Passes can be revoked for those who do not adhere to these guidelines.