Adventure, enjoyable, leisure await at Touch of Nature’s Friends and Family Camp

March 12, 2026

Adventure, enjoyable, leisure await at Touch of Nature’s Friends and Family Camp

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. — If you’re on the lookout for a respite from at the moment’s hectic world, Southern Illinois University Carbondale is providing everybody an opportunity to get away and reconnect with those that matter most whereas having fun with a enjoyable, stress-free weekend.

Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center is internet hosting the second annual memory-making Friends and Family Camp, May 1-3. This distinctive getaway is open to all ages for a return to an easier period by having fun with evenings round a toasty campfire, creating arts and crafts keepsakes, and rather more.

Space is restricted, so contributors ought to sign up now to assert a spot. Children have to be accompanied by a guardian or guardian.

“Touch of Nature is the perfect backdrop to reconnect with your loved ones and friends through various outdoor activities and adventures or just by hanging out together in a beautiful place,” stated Brian Croft, director of Touch of Nature and the Office of Sustainability. “Our staff has worked hard to take care of all the planning so visitors can just show up and have a great time. You can pick and choose to join in as many activities as you like, and the one-price reservation covers lodging, meals and all activities.”

Eclipse-inspired, again by well-liked demand

The idea for Friends and Family was born when hundreds of tourists flocked to Southern Illinois for the whole photo voltaic eclipse on April 8, 2024, and lots of chosen Touch of Nature to observe the celestial present whereas having fun with the facilities and actions with household and associates. Countless guests loved themselves so totally; they insisted they needed to return and the inaugural 2025 camp proved a hit.

What’s occurring

The weekend options actions from particular stay music below the celebs and night campfire packages to excessive journey, together with the enormous swing. Participants can get pleasure from arts and crafts, discover the gorgeous camp situated adjoining to the Shawnee National Forest, hike or bike the paths, or take part different various programming.

Check-in is from 3-7 p.m. May 1, with checkout at 11 a.m. May 3. Guests are welcome to depart the grounds to go to different locations within the area, however organizers guarantee there may be loads to maintain entertained and having a good time on website. Want to come back alone? That’s positive too, because the camp affords an accessible, bite-sized weekend journey alternative for these of all generations, with or with out children. Pets are permitted if they’re leashed and keep outside; service animals are permitted indoors. 

All-inclusive pricing

The price is $125 per particular person for age 13 and older or $80 for kids ages 5-12. Kids age 4 and youthful can take part without spending a dime.

Check the web site for full particulars, together with a useful recommended packing record. Note that contributors ought to convey mattress linens or sleeping baggage.

For further info and registration, go to the Friends and Family Camp webpage. Call 618-453-1122 or electronic mail ton@siu.edu with questions.