January 10, 2020

SIU’s Touch of Nature offering Valentine’s weekend “How Sweet It Is” camp

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. — A Valentine’s weekend to remember for children is available courtesy of Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s Touch of Nature Environmental Center.

The “How Sweet It Is” winter mini-camp, Feb. 14-15, will give kids a chance to enjoy a wide variety of entertaining activities geared specifically for them, while parents have the opportunity to enjoy a night to themselves, knowing that their kids are well cared for.

So much to do

It’s a fun-filled weekend for the youngsters featuring a chance to learn more about the great outdoors, hear guest speakers and enjoy a variety of activities.

Children will participate in games and crafts. They’ll make music, learn more about trees and find out how maple syrup is made. They will discover animal tracks and delve into the world of winter birds, reptiles and amphibians, and meeting some of these interesting critters along the way. Guest speakers include Stephanie “Rockcat” Jaros and Raymond and Taryn Bieri.

Of course, what would a campout be without a campfire, complete with campfire songs? There will be a dance party as well.

Overnight and day options available

The mini-camp is for children ages 7 to 12 years old and takes place at Touch of Nature, located at 1206 Touch of Nature Road, about eight miles south of Carbondale off Giant City Road. There are two camp options:

  • The overnight camp begins at 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 14 and activities wrap up at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday.
  • The day camp is available for those who just want to come for the Saturday activities from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

The cost for the overnight camp is $70 per child while the day camp is $40. There is a $10 discount for each additional sibling.

Sign up now

Online registration is now available at ton.siu.edu/camps-and-retreats/how-sweet-it-is-winter-mini-camp.php. Additional information is available at ton.siu.edu or by calling 618/453-1121 or emailing tonec@siu.edu.

The deadline to register is Feb. 12.