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Shedd Aquarium

Southern Illinois Outdoor Summit at Touch of Nature

Fri, Mar 27 , 2026 • 8:30am - 5:00pm

Touch of Nature Rd, Makanda, IL 62958

Join with a diverse community of environmental educators and professionals to help build a vibrant and sustainable outdoor economy that benefits Southern Illinois for years to come.

The summit is a transformative event designed to unite community partners, land agencies, businesses, and outdoor enthusiasts passionate about growing the region’s outdoor industry. Featuring keynote speakers, workshops, outdoor demonstrations, and networking opportunities, the symposium aims to foster collaboration, promote education on sustainability and innovation, boost the regional economy, and inspire entrepreneurship. It fosters connections, improves environmental literacy, and amplifies underrepresented voices in the environmental education sphere.

Places to stay nearby...

Little Grassy Lodge at Touch of Nature

Makanda

Little Grassy Lodge is the hotel-style lodge at Touch of Nature.

Read more about Little Grassy Lodge at Touch of Nature

Touch of Nature

Makanda

Touch of Nature, with its outdoor spaces, indoor facilities, and lodging is capable of hosting several types of events, including: Business and Board Meetings, Conferences and…

Read more about Touch of Nature

Camp Manitowa – Cedar Point

Makanda

Camp Manitowa – Cedar Point is located in the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. Cedar Point offers beachfront access with a new swim dock to…

Read more about Camp Manitowa – Cedar Point

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