Visitors explore the activities at Touch of Nature’s Haunted Hollow. (Photo provided)
October 19, 2026
Haunted Hollow returns to SIU’s Touch of Nature on Oct. 25
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Ready for some fun? Climb a rock wall, soar on a giant swing or hang out with a snake. Then hop on a haunted hayride and see who screams first!
Families can enjoy it all at Haunted Hollow — the Halloween festival at Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center — from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 25. The festival is open to the public and takes place rain or shine. Costumes are encouraged but not required.
Brian Croft, director of Touch of Nature, said the festival is meant to be “playful and just a little spooky” and also “a great way for people to see what Touch of Nature offers year-round.”
Much of the fun is free. Kids can hold and learn about snakes at the creepy crawlers exhibit, play fall-themed games, make crafts, or browse the Not So Spooky Library inside the haunted cabin.
The bigger thrills require tickets, which are available all day at the ticket booth for $1 each. Archery costs one ticket. The rock wall and cargo net tower cost two tickets each, while the giant swing and pumpkin painting cost three each.
Save at least five tickets for the haunted hayride. Actors from Carbondale Community High School’s drama department will line the route from Camp II to Camp I, ready to give riders a scare. Children 3 and younger can ride for free when seated on an adult’s lap. The hayride tends to sell out every year, so grab a seat early. Spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so organizers encourage participants to come early and sign up for a time slot.
The event takes place rain or shine, so dress appropriately for outdoor activities. There’s no need to register in advance. Some activities require a signed waiver, which guests can print and complete ahead of time or sign at check-in.
The grounds are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, and children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. To get there, go to Touch of Nature at 1206 Touch of Nature Road in Makanda, Illinois, then follow the maroon signs to Camp II.
Want to help? Volunteers from SIU and the community can sign up here.
For more information, contact Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center at 618-453-1122 or ton@siu.edu, or visit the Haunted Hollow information page.