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Touch of Nature
Touch of Nature Environmental Center helps connect people back to nature. We strive to increase environmental awareness by offering a variety of exciting and adventurous ways to experience the outdoors, right in the heart of beautiful Southern Illinois. Visitors can explore over 3,000 acres of nature, whether by mountain bike or hiking our many multi-use trails, zip-lining through the ropes courses, camping under the stars, canoeing and kayaking on Little Grassy Lake, and so much more.

Touch of Nature supports a wide range of groups and organizations through our outdoor educational programming, summer camps, and retreats. We host many events throughout the year, such as the annual Maple Syrup Festival. Our hospitality services and natural spaces create the perfect location for your next conference, meeting, or unique event.

Upcoming Events

Leave No Trace Master Course: Eleven Point River
April 11-14, 2021

Leave No Trace Master Course: Mad Dog Flatwater
May 17-21, 2021

ACCT Level 1 Training
April 19-22, 2021

Canceled

2021 Maple Syrup Festival

Leave No Trace Trainings

Touch of Nature offers Leave No Trace trainings, including Master Educator courses, Trainer courses, and awareness workshops, teaching ethical outdoor conservation.

Veteran Adventures

Touch of Nature offers environmental programs and events tailored to support veterans' transitions from military life to civilian life.

Help us build our bike trails!

We are working to create several miles of mountain bike trails at Touch of Nature. Volunteers are needed to assist in building the trails.

Programs - Recreation Therapy

Programs

Touch of Nature hosts experiential education programs, ranging from outdoor education and youth focused workshops to veteran adventures. These programs utilize the many natural resources located here in beautiful Southern Illinois.

Camps - Camp Little Giant

Camps and Retreats

Touch of Nature offers a variety of exciting, educational, and adventurous summer camps, including outdoor adventure camps, winter camps, and Camp Little Giant, offering a great way to mix education, fun and an appreciation of the nature.

Basecamp

Basecamp offers a variety of equipment available to rent for your next outdoor adventure, regardless of whether it's for a day or several weeks.

Rentals open to SIU students, faculty, staff, and the community.

Become a member!

Enjoy exclusive discounts and members-only events at Touch of Nature by becoming a member of Touch of Nature.

Already a member? Consider making a donation to a specific program or volunteering at our next event!

Let us host your next event!

We offers several hospitality services, including outdoor spaces, indoor facilities, lodging, catering and custom activities for your next event.