The Kansas City Public Library and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources present a series of five programs in March that highlight many of the recreational offerings available in the state of Missouri.

In the first of five programs, Kevin Bolling discusses the many camping and hiking opportunities available at Missouri State Parks in a talk titled Camping in Missouri’s State Parks on Tuesday, March 3, at 6:30 p.m. at the Central Library, 14 W. 10th St.

Bolling will discuss the dos and don’ts of camping in 42 of Missouri’s State Parks and historic sites and offer suggestions for the best parks for a variety of recreational activities – from hiking to swimming to just camping out with friends and family.

Other events in the Experiencing Missouri series include: Cycling Missouri on Tuesday, March 10; Caving Missouri on Tuesday, March 17; Backpacking Missouri on Tuesday, March 24; and Fishing Missouri on Tuesday, March 31.

The series complements the Painting Missouri exhibit now on display at the Central Library. Painting Missouri is a collection of 115 oil paintings by internationally known artist Billyo O’Donnell depicting all 114 Missouri counties and the city of St. Louis. The exhibit is on display through May 3rd at the Central Library, 14 W. 10th St.