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The IDNR headquarters at 1 Natural Resources Way in Springfield has experienced a power outage and tree damage throughout the grounds as a result of severe storms in the area. The agency expects to reopen the building to the public on Monday, June 15, 2026, though this could be subject to change. Check back here for an update before planning to visit the office in person.

Governor JB Pritzker Illinois.gov Contact IDNR DNR A to Z

Becoming an Outdoors Woman

 

 

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 female participants 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

Southern BOW

October 16-18, 2026
Touch of Nature - Makanda, IL

Regisration will be mid-July. Date tbd.    

Illinois's Becoming an Outdoors Woman traditional workshop is only offered one time in 2026. We also have smaller-scale “Beyond BOW” workshops that are held throughout the state.

Beyond BOW

Trapping Camp

March 21-22, 2026

West/Central Illinois 

 
Fish-N-Dish

July 11-12th 2026

TYCEC - Pecatonica, IL

FULL - Registration for waitlist only. 
Shooting Sports

November 7-8, 2026

World Shooting / Recreational Complex

Sparta, Illinois

Registration mid August. Date tbd

 

BOW coordinator - Lisa Demeule
Phone - 217 782-7026
Email - dnr.outdoorswoman@illinois.gov

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Workshop Info

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