| About Touch of Nature TOUCH OF NATURE Environmental Center is located on Little Grassy Lake, eight miles south of Carbondale, IL. Its 3,100 acres are bordered by Giant City State Park and the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge as well as the Shawnee National Forest. The center is devoted to lifelong learning through experience for people from all ages and walks of life. The center is nationally recognized for in therapeutic recreation, environmental education, and experiential education, and its staff are trained and experienced in therapeutic recreation and outdoor education for special populations. Each year since 1951, SIUC and Touch of Nature have offered a summer camping program for individuals with hearing, visual, mental, and physical disabilities. Staff members encourage campers to develop self confidence through outdoor recreation and structured activities. Campers also develop an awareness and understanding of nature through guided nature hikes and visits to the Nature Center. Observant campers will enjoy seeing the abundant wildlife, such as deer, red fox, owls, and otters that inhabit Touch of Nature |
