Touch of Nature Enviornmental Center
1206 Touch of Nature Rd., Makanda, IL 62958
Hiking & Trails
Programs offer opportunities in both adventure and environmental education, and meet the needs for a wide range of groups, businesses and organizations. Touch of Nature is dedicated to providing state-of-the-art education and recreation.
Just 8 miles south of Carbondale, Touch of Nature borders the Shawnee Forest. It is a 3,100 acre wooded retreat area perfect for group events. Located in the City of Makanda, IL.
How to find us?
What's happening nearby...
Southern Illinois Route - The American Discovery 250 Relay
Oct 03 – Oct 09
Explore Southern Illinois by bike, foot, or horse as the Relay travels through towns, forests, & river valleys. Join for a mile or a day-your choice-a…
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Wine & Food pairing / Midsummer Picnic Pairings
Blue Sky Vineyard • Aug 07 – Aug 08 @ 12noon
Wineries of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail have paired up to create wonderful weekend of wine and food pairings. Join us for a progressive tasting along…
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Southern Illinois Honey Festival
Sep 19 @ 10AM
Southern Illinois Honey Festival is held in the Valley of the Arts, Downtown Makanda, IL. Makanda borders the beautiful Shawnee National Forest, the gateway to Illinois’…
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Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour
Makanda
Eco-friendly zip line canopy tour, located on 83 wooded acres. The tour includes 8 ziplines — the longest over 1,110 ft. — 11 elevated tree platforms,…
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Mountain bike trails at Touch of Nature
Makanda
The Trails system offers over 10 miles of multi-use trails for bikers, hikers, and runners only; as well as a Kid’s Terrain Park.
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Poplar Camp Beach
Makanda
Try cooling off at this family friendly beach located in the heart of Southern Illinois.
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