Registration Tips and Instructions

First Screen

Enter your contact information. Make sure everything is correct. We will contact you using this email address.

Second Screen

You have 5 minutes to choose classes and submit. There will be a timer countdown.

Pick class from the drop menu

Select the blue “save session class”. It will turn green once it’s been saved.

If the class you want is NOT showing up in the drop menu, it means this class is already FULL. Only available classes with be shown to you.

Once all classes are selected/green, mark the liability acknowledgement box and Submit BOW Application

Final Screen

You will get a confirmation page, with a link to the payment. Payments must be submitted before Sept 16 in order to hold your place. 

This workshop will take place October 16-18, 2026 at Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center.

Workshop Fee is $270 and includes all food, lodging and program costs.

Scholarships are available. Apply for scholarship after you have registered.. Please register as normal to ensure you get the classes you want. Once confirmed, send your application to the BOW Coordinator. DNR.OutdoorsWoman@illinois.gov  Scholarship Application Link can be found here. 

Sleeping Accommodations

The facilities offered are shared accommodations with no privacy / no private sleeping quarters. Participants who prefer private accommodations are welcome to arrange their own.

BOW workshop is being held at Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center.  You must bring your own linen sets (or sleeping bag), towels and shower toiletries. We will utilize bottom bunks only, so don't worry about having to climb after a long day of playing outside!! 

Shawnee Lodge has 3 or 4 beds per room with 7 rooms that share two common bathrooms. Includes linens.

Morris Lodge has 4 beds per room, and nine rooms. (bottom bunks counted only) There are two common bathrooms and a large comfortable lounge area. Includes linens.

Primitive cabins and tent camping are also available (bring your own tent and gear).

Food

Meals include Friday dinner, Saturday breakfast/lunch/dinner, Sunday breakfast/lunch. Most allergies and other dietary needs can be accommodated with advanced notice.

Other Workshop Info

You should prepare for warm & cool days and possibility of rain. We do not cancel our “outside classrooms" unless it’s heavy rain or lightning. More specific class checklists will be provided to you after registration. 

The workshop runs all weekend, with 4 sessions.  Participants select one class from a variety of options each session. (you will take 4 classes total) Sessions are 3.5 hours each and can happen either “on campus” or a short drive away.