Frequently Asked Questions

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Last Updated: Jun 24, 2025, 09:07 AM

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You have questions, but we have answers! We strive to provide comprehensive answers to all your questions. If you don't see your question listed, give us a call at 618-453-1122 or send us an email at ton@siu.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Touch of Nature?

Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center is a facility of Southern Illinois University dedicated to providing immersive outdoor education experiences. We offer a range of programs including outdoor education, team building, community events, and summer camps, all designed to create positive outdoor experiences for all people. 

How do I access Touch of Nature?

The easiest way to get to Touch of Nature is to plug our address into your GPS:
1206 Touch of Nature Road, Makanda, IL 62958

  • Just here for the trails? Stop by the SIU Credit Union Trailhead to access our community trails!
  • Want to learn more? Visit our office during regular office hours—we’d love to chat and share more about what we do!
  • Attending an event or program? Follow the maroon directional signs and posted signage to your group’s designated area.

Please note that not all areas of Touch of Nature are open to the public. If you’re in a restricted area, our staff may kindly redirect you to our community spaces. We appreciate your understanding!

How do I book an event at Touch of Nature?

To book an event, please fill out our program inquiry form. Please be thorough in your answers as the more information we have, the sooner we can begin the booking process. Some details to think about are the event date(s), lodging needs, meal needs, arrival/departure times, estimated headcount, etc.

How much does it cost?

Costs are based on the specifics of the camp, festival, or program. Factors that affect cost are food, lodging, programming, etc.

Are parking passes required for Touch of Nature trails?

No! At this time, parking at the Touch of Nature trailhead is free and does not require a parking pass.

Do you have Wi-Fi?

Yes, we have Wi-Fi at Touch of Nature, but only in select spaces such as Little Grassy Lodge, Freeberg Hall, Shawnee Lodge, Morris Lodge, River Radio Room and Burke Lounge. Instructions for logging in are provided in these spaces for your convenience. If you have trouble connecting, feel free to ask a staff member for assistance.

Will I have cell phone service at Touch of Nature?

Customers of Verizon and AT&T are most likely to receive cell service during their stay. Customers of Sprint, T-Mobile and other cell providers may not receive service or experience interrupted signal during their stay.

Is there public transportation to Touch of Nature?

At this time, there isn’t a daily public transportation route to Touch of Nature. However, Jax Mass Transit is currently offering a seasonal pilot route called the SOAR Route every Saturday from June through September.

The SOAR Route includes:

  • One outbound trip in the morning, with pick-up options at Evergreen Terrace or the rear entrance of the SIU Recreation Center. The bus arrives at Touch of Nature at approximately 10:40 a.m.

  • One return trip in the late afternoon, departing from Touch of Nature at 3:50 p.m.

Each leg of the journey takes about 1.5 hours. You can view the full route and schedule here.

We hope this makes it a little easier to get outside and enjoy Touch of Nature!

Can I bring my pet with me to Touch of Nature? What about service animals?

Only service or service animals in training are allowed in buildings at Touch of Nature. Service animals are defined as dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, and/or other mental disability. The work or tasks performed by a service animal must be directly related to the individual’s disability.

Non-service animals and pets are not allowed in Touch of Nature buildings. Animals whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals and are not allowed in the facility unless otherwise approved by administration.

For more detailed information, please review the SIU Service Animal Policy.

Can we have a campfire?

Yes — in designated fire rings only for select programs and community events.

  • Firewood must be purchased on-site (outside wood is not allowed).

  • Campfires must be attended at all times and fully extinguished before you leave.

Is Touch of Nature a smoke-free campus?

Yes. Smoking is only allowed in designated areas and must be done away from buildings and common areas in alignment with the SIU Smoking Policy. 

Can we bring alcohol?

Alcohol is permitted only with prior approval and must follow SIU’s alcohol policy. Ask your Touch of Nature coordinator if you have questions.

Is there parking available? Can we drive up to buildings?

Parking is available in designated areas only. Please do not park on sidewalks, lawns, or trails. If you need to temporarily drive closer for loading/unloading, check with your Touch of Nature host first.

I think I lost something at Touch of Nature. Is there a Lost & Found?

Yes! All found items are turned in to our Administration Office near the main entrance.
If you think you left something behind, give us a call at 618-453-1122 with a description of the item.

To claim an item, you may be asked to show ID. After 30 days any item will become the property of Southern Illinois University. Items in usable condition may be donated to local charities. Purses and wallets will be given to the Department of Public Safety if the owner fails to claim item after contacted.

What do I do in case of an emergency?

  • For serious emergencies, call 911 first, then notify a staff member.

  • Emergency response posters are located in all main buildings.

  • If you need non-urgent help (lockouts, etc.), call the on-call number provided in your confirmation materials.

How do I register for a camp?

You can register for our camps online through our website or by calling our office. Registration typically opens several months before the camp start date, so we recommend registering early to secure your spot.

What should I bring to Camp?

Campers should bring weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy footwear, a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, bug spray, and any personal medications. A detailed packing list will be provided upon registration.