Participants enjoy the inaugural Friends and Family Camp. Photo provided
March 12, 2026
Adventure, fun, relaxation await at Touch of Nature’s Friends and Family Camp
CARBONDALE, Ill. — If you’re looking for a respite from today’s hectic world, Southern Illinois University Carbondale is offering everyone a chance to get away and reconnect with those who matter most while enjoying a fun, relaxing weekend.
Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center is hosting the second annual memory-making Friends and Family Camp, May 1-3. This unique getaway is open to all ages for a return to a simpler era by enjoying evenings around a toasty campfire, creating arts and crafts keepsakes, and much more.
Space is limited, so participants should sign up now to claim a spot. Children must be accompanied by a parent 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,” said 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, back by popular demand
The concept for Friends and Family was born when thousands of visitors flocked to Southern Illinois for the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, and many selected Touch of Nature to watch the celestial show while enjoying the amenities and activities with family and friends. Countless visitors enjoyed themselves so thoroughly; they insisted they wanted to return and the inaugural 2025 camp proved a success.
What’s going on
The weekend features activities from special live music under the stars and evening campfire programs to high adventure, including the giant swing. Participants can enjoy arts and crafts, explore the beautiful camp located adjacent to the Shawnee National Forest, hike or bike the trails, or join in other diverse programming.
Check-in is from 3-7 p.m. May 1, with checkout at 11 a.m. May 3. Guests are welcome to leave the grounds to visit other places in the region, but organizers assure there is plenty to keep entertained and having a great time on site. Want to come alone? That’s fine too, as the camp offers an accessible, bite-sized weekend adventure opportunity for those of all generations, with or without kids. Pets are permitted if they are leashed and stay outdoors; service animals are permitted indoors.
All-inclusive pricing
The cost is $125 per person for age 13 and older or $80 for children ages 5-12. Kids age 4 and younger can join in for free.
Check the website for complete details, including a helpful suggested packing list. Note that participants should bring bed linens or sleeping bags.
For additional information and registration, visit the Friends and Family Camp webpage. Call 618-453-1122 or email ton@siu.edu with questions.