Camps and Retreats

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Last Updated: Feb 27, 2025, 08:32 PM

Camp group photo at Touch of Nature

Program Inquiry

To find out more information or register for any of our trainings or workshops, contact Touch of Nature at 618-453-1121 or email ton@siu.edu.

Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center, located near the beautiful Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois, offers a variety of exciting, educational and adventurous summer camps.

From Camp Little Giant and Edventure to Dawg Days New Student Retreat and partner camps, our camps provide a great way to mix education, fun and an appreciation of the natural world around us. 

SIU embraces a unique tradition of access and opportunity, inclusive excellence, innovation in research and creativity, and outstanding teaching focused on nurturing student success. As a nationally ranked public research university and regional economic catalyst, we create and exchange knowledge to shape future leaders, improve our communities, and transform lives. We continue these values and mission as part of our summer camp program. does not discriminate against students in the participation of camps, including based on race, national origin, sex, gender, or other protected status.

Make a Difference

About Us

  • Camp BETA

    Camp Beta - Believe-Empower-Talk-Act
    Camp BETA is a free overnight camp for youth ages 10-16 with Type 1 diabetes.  Camp BETA is a collaboration between, Southern Illinois Healthcare, the Diabetes Today Resource Team and Touch of Nature. For full details, please visit the Camp BETA web page.

  • Dawg Days Retreat

    students at dawg days retreat
    This retreat welcomes incoming SIU freshmen and transfer students to connect, explore campus traditions, and enjoy activities like team building, themed socials, canoeing, kayaking, and rock climbing. Build lifelong friendships that make SIU feel like home!

  • Team Illinois Youth Police Camp

    A Illinois State Police officer shows three teenagers a display connected to a drone.
    The Team Illinois Youth Police Camp at Touch of Nature is a week-long residential camp for local youth ages 13-17, focused on leadership, personal development, and social skills. Operated through a collaboration of law enforcement, social service agencies, the Illinois National Guard, and the Illinois State Police, it fosters positive relationships between youth and law enforcement while providing hands-on learning experiences.

  • Edventure Camp

    Drew teaching Edventure Camp kids about bugs
    At Touch of Nature, campers ages 5-10 will become emerging naturalists, exploring the enchanting forests of Southern Illinois through hands-on discovery and adventure. Register today!

  • Camp Little Giant

    Camp Little Giant has been offering lifetime memories and experiences since 1952 and is one of the first residential camps of its kind in the nation to offer camping opportunities for people with disabilities.