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Becoming an Outdoors Woman
Next BOW registration is for the Main Workshop in Southern Illinois.
Sept 12-14, 2025. Touch of Nature - Makanda, IL
Registration opens Monday July 14th. 7:00pm
Becoming An Outdoors-Woman (BOW) is a program designed to give women introductory experiences and instruction in various outdoor activities. Three-day weekend workshops include classes ranging from outdoor recreational activities to shooting sports to outdoor crafts and hobbies. Program instructors emphasize the basics in instruction while providing information on equipment, associated clubs and/or organizations, and additional training opportunities. Workshops are open to women 18 years and older. Meals, lodging, transportation during workshops, giveaways, and use of class equipment & supplies are all included in the workshop registration fees. Workshops fill up very quickly so keep an eye on this website for updates and workshop registration materials.
Classes fill up quickly, but there may be other learning opportunities in your area through different groups. Check here:
Becoming an Outdoors Woman Workshop Weekend
Illinois's Becoming an Outdoors Woman traditional workshop is only currently offered one time in 2025. However, we have smaller-scale “Beyond BOW” workshops that are held throughout the state.
Beyond BOW
BOW coordinator - Lisa Demeule
Phone - 217 782-7026
Email - dnr.outdoorswoman@illinois.gov
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