Partner Camps and Events | Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center | SIU

Touch of Nature is proud to partner with outstanding organizations in the community to provide partner camps and events. Partnering with these organizations allows us to offer a wider variety of camps and events to reach more individuals. Read more about our partner camps and events below.

Camp BETA

Camp BETA is a free overnight camp for youth ages 10-16 with Type 1 diabetes that takes place annually in September. Camp BETA is a collaboration between Southern Illinois Healthcare, the Diabetes Today Resource Team, and Touch of Nature. Registration for Camp BETA 2024, happening September 7-8, is open now. Register for Camp BETA here.

Team Illinois Youth Police Camp

The Team Illinois Youth Police Camp at Touch of Nature is a week-long residency camp structured to promote educational and learning opportunities for youth ages 13-17 from diverse communities and backgrounds. Areas of focus include law enforcement, military, leadership, cultural diversity, personal development, physical fitness, and social and interpersonal skills. Learn more about this camp here.

Becoming an Outdoors Woman

Becoming An Outdoors-Woman (BOW) is a program designed to give women introductory experiences and instruction in various outdoor activities. Three-day weekend workshops include classes ranging from outdoor recreational activities to shooting sports to outdoor crafts and hobbies. Learn more about BOW here.

The Inclusive Hunt

Touch of Nature’s Inclusive Hunt, held with the assistance of the NWTF, is an event designed exclusively for individuals with disabilities who have a passion for archery, deer hunting, and the outdoors. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, you can apply to join independently or with a helper by your side. For those in need of a helper, worry not – dedicated volunteer helpers will be readily available. Our mission is to ensure that everyone can participate and create lasting memories. Learn more about The Inclusive Hunt here.

Rooted in Play: The Power of Place

Hosted by the SIU School of Education

This is an experiential conference focusing on a place-based approach inspired by educators in Reggio Emilia, Italy. This conference will provide information and hands on learning opportunities to support participants, whether you are a novice, an experimenter or an expert in your journey.

We'll see you in 2025! Dates coming soon!

Little Grassy Winter Songwriter Retreat

Presented by Poss Music Works

Join us Thursday, February 29 through Sunday, March 3, 2024 for The Little Grassy Winter Songwriter Retreat at Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center! This weekend long retreat brought to you by Poss Music Works will feature musical workshops, networking opportunities, concerts, and the opportunity to create and record content in a recording studio.

Weekend passes as well as listener day passes will be available. More details are coming soon. Join the Little Grassy Winter Songwriter Retreat group on Facebook to stay up to date with the latest information!

Learn More