Touch Of Nature Environmental Center

Near Touch of Nature Environmental Center, one of the prominent dining options is Giant City State Park Lodge & Restaurant. This rustic lodge offers a country-style dining hall and a bar, serving delicious dishes in a cozy setting. The restaurant is particularly famous for its family-style fried chicken dinner, which comes with a variety of sides. The atmosphere is casual and historic, making it a great choice for both families and solo diners. While it is part of a lodge, the restaurant stands out for its welcoming service and scenic surroundings.

Unfortunately, no other nearby restaurants have a website link available in the provided data.

For accommodations near Touch of Nature Environmental Center, Giant City State Park Lodge and Makanda Inn are excellent options. The Giant City Lodge offers rustic cabins and a country-style restaurant within a historic setting, making it ideal for those seeking a blend of nature and comfort. Makanda Inn provides a more intimate setting with woodland cottages and casual rooms, offering a serene stay amidst nature.

The Holiday Inn Carbondale-Conference Center offers modern amenities, including an indoor pool and meeting spaces, though it is slightly farther from the center.

Touch of Nature Environmental Center offers a range of outdoor amenities suitable for hiking and biking, including over 10 miles of multi-use trails. It serves as an outdoor laboratory and field site for research, focusing on environmental education and therapeutic recreation. However, specific amenities like restrooms, showers, or picnic areas are not detailed in the available information.

The surrounding area, including nearby parks and centers, might provide additional facilities such as restrooms and picnic areas, though these are not directly part of the center.

The primary activities at Touch of Nature Environmental Center revolve around outdoor education and adventure. It features hiking and biking trails, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts and adventurers. The Kid's Terrain Park offers specialized mountain biking experiences for younger visitors. Additionally, the center offers opportunities for team-building and environmental learning programs.

Nearby attractions like Giant City State Park provide further opportunities for hiking and horseback riding, enhancing the overall outdoor experience of the area.

Information regarding specific disability access features at Touch of Nature Environmental Center is limited. However, being an educational and recreational facility, it likely strives to provide accessible pathways and accommodations to support diverse visitors. The emphasis on inclusivity is part of its broader mission to enhance lives through outdoor experiences.

Information on parking facilities at Touch of Nature Environmental Center is not detailed in the available data. However, outdoor centers like these often have designated parking areas for visitors, which are likely accessible given the nature of the activities offered. The proximity to parking would typically be close to the trails or main facilities to facilitate easy access to the activities available.

Touch of Nature Environmental Center has been providing environmental education and outdoor recreation since 1952, serving as a significant component of Southern Illinois University's offerings. It is recognized for its commitment to environmental stewardship and community health. The center's proximity to the Shawnee National Forest allows it to offer unique experiences amidst one of the most stunning natural areas in the Midwest.

The annual Little Grassy Get Down Music Festival held at the center highlights its role in hosting community events that blend music, art, and environmental education.

Touch of Nature Environmental Center is located near several notable attractions in Southern Illinois. Giant City State Park is one of the closest, offering additional hiking trails, guided horseback rides, and historic structures. The Shawnee National Forest, which the center borders, provides extensive opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.

The nearby Carbondale area offers attractions like wineries along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail and various cultural venues, adding depth to any visit to the region.