Tickets Menu
Things to Do at Shaw Nature Reserve

Welcome!

Shaw Nature Reserve, a division of the Missouri Botanical Garden, offers 18 miles of trails and over 2,400 acres which includes reconstructed tallgrass prairie, wetland, glade, savannah, woodland, and the Meramec River. Each season is beautiful and can make an excellent location for memorable events.

Visitors are encouraged to schedule private rentals at least 6 months out due to the limited availability of the facilities. Weddings can be scheduled up to 18 months in advance.

Private Rentals

Day use rental pavilions module

Shaw Nature Reserve is an ideal location for those looking to hold a private rental in an outdoor setting. We have both indoor and outdoor options and day use and overnight options. Whether you are looking for a company retreat or a space for a family reunion, Shaw Nature Reserve has numerous spaces to accommodate your rental needs.

Learn more and book a space

Private Tours

Explorer wagon
We offer walking tours and narrated tours aboard our Shaw Explorer wagon. For a group arriving on its own bus, our staff can step aboard to describe the Nature Reserve's history, what's in bloom, wildlife and more. It is important that the bus has a microphone.

Learn more and book a tour

 

Weddings

Bride and groom on grounds

At Shaw Nature Reserve, we are able to accommodate up to 100 people for a ceremony at multiple outdoor locations. For questions and to make a reservation contact our Events and Outreach Coordinator at snrinfo@mobot.org or call (314) 577-9555.

Wedding information packet

Photography

All Photography:

Review all information before coming to photograph at Shaw Nature Reserve.

Policies and Guidelines for Photography at Shaw Nature Reserve
Wedding Photography Permit

For more information, please call (314) 577-9555.

Picnicking

We always encourage walkers to bring plenty of water and whatever snacks they enjoy when hiking. We also welcome picnicking for those who want more than a snack.

We ask that you picnic at the specified picnic areas at the Glassberg Family Pavilions or at the Maritz Trail House.

There is no grilling or cooking over fire at Shaw Nature Reserve and no alcoholic beverages are allowed.