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Shedd Aquarium

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.

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What's happening nearby...

Gnome Roam at Giant City State Park

Giant City State Park •  Dec 01 – Jan 31

Visiting the Gnome Roam at Giant City State Park combines the beauty of nature with a touch of whimsy by hiking among mesmerizing forests and finding…

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Maple Syrup Festival

Mar 22 – Mar 23 @ 9AM

Enjoy two full days of family fun including maple syrup demonstrations, pancake breakfast, nature hikes, lumberjack demonstrations, children's activities, vendors and artisans, and much more.

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Little Grassy Get Down Music Festival

Touch of Nature •  Oct 10 – Oct 12

Get Down to Makanda, IL for 3 days of live music, campfire jams and art, environmental and music education. Barn dance, kids trick-or-treating and a full-service…

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Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour

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Eco-friendly zip line canopy tour, located on 83 wooded acres.

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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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Giant City Stables

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Giant City Stables offers guided horseback trail rides, as well as a variety of summer horse camps and horseback riding lessons for groups and individuals.…

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