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...

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.
Read more about Maple Syrup FestivalThe Vintner’s Table - An Intimate Winery Tour & Tasting Experience At Blue Sky Vineyard
Blue Sky Vineyards • Mar 22 @ 1PM
An Intimate Winery Tour & Tasting Experience
Read more about The Vintner’s Table - An Intimate Winery Tour & Tasting Experience At Blue Sky Vineyard
Little Grassy Get Down at Touch of Nature
Touch of Nature • Oct 10 – Oct 12 @ 10AM
A family friendly music festival featuring mostly original acoustic Americana music from around the Midwest.
Read more about Little Grassy Get Down at Touch of NatureYou might also be interested...

Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour
Makanda
Eco-friendly zip line canopy tour, located on 83 wooded acres.
Read more about Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour
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.
Read more about Mountain bike trails at Touch of NaturePoplar Camp Beach
Makanda
Try cooling off at this family friendly beach located in the heart of Southern Illinois.
Read more about Poplar Camp Beach