1st Annual Community Camp at Emiquon Preserve

Nothing says fall like a camping trip! So join us on our first ever community camp at The Nature Conservancy's (TNC) Emiquon Preserve in Lewistown Illinois. We'll hike, drive, and paddle through this beautiful 6,000+ acre preserve in Lewistown, Illinois. In spring and fall, this preserve hosts thousands of migratory birds, including a diversity of shore and wetland birds (like the massive flock of White Pelicans pictured below). This beautiful floodplain along the Illinois River is an example of innovative conservation at work, and we're lucky to be joined by TNC staff who will share the history and current context of the site, in addition to guiding us through the best parts of the preserve! Learn more about Emiquon here.

First time on a trip like this? No problem! There are experienced campers, birders, hikers, and paddlers in our group who are happy to help you prepare, and support you during the event. Below are some details about what to expect, and some resources we will have available. Ahead of the event, we'll share additional details, including a suggested gear and supplies list so that you can come fully prepared to enjoy.

Families are welcome at all of our day-trip events, but this is an adults-only trip. All participants must be 18+ years of age. All participants will be required to complete a liability waiver provided by our hosts at The Nature Conservancy.

Sleeping Arrangements

There will be a designated area for tent camping. There may also be some limited dorm-style indoor spaces available at the research station on site for a nominal fee. We are checking into availability, but knowing that indoor options will be limited, participants with health or accessibility needs will get first dibs on indoor accommodations. Please indicate your preference on the registration form. There are restrooms, showers and sinks with running water on site- these will be open to all participants.

Food, Drinks and Equipment

We'll be coordinating with participants to organize a potluck-style dinner on 10/15, but breakfast, snacks and lunches should be packed by participants or coordinated among friend groups. Drinks will be BYOB (adult beverages are allowed!). There is a gas grill, fire pit and firewood on site. We are working with partners to secure loaner tents and associated gear. Please indicate whether or not you'll bring your own tent, sleeping bag and sleeping mat in the registration form.

Draft Agenda

We will be in touch with more details as this is refined. Please note that participants can opt in and out of any of the events below. The trails are all unpaved at this location, and some are flatter and less strenuous than others.

Saturday

8:00 AM - Leave Chicago area. It's a 3.5 hr (ish) drive. Join our Out In Nature WhatsApp group to coordinate a carpool!

12:00 PM - Arrive at Emiquon Preserve in Lewistown, IL. Also, lunch and tent set up.

2:00 - 3:00 PM - Guided Tour and Hiking with TNC staff. We'll visit some areas that aren't open to the public and learn about the unique conservation work that goes into keeping this preserve healthy.

6:00 PM - Group dinner, drinks and s'mores!

9:00 PM - Night hike. We'll hike up a ridge to see the stars and enjoy the nighttime sounds.

Sunday

9:00 AM - 11:30 AM - Paddling. TNC staff will set us up with canoes.

12:00 PM - Lunch, some people depart.

12:30 PM - Optional hike, all depart.

6:00 PM (ish) - Arrive back in Chicago. 3.5 hr (ish) drive.

Interested in extending your stay? There are hotel accommodations, restaurants, and local attractions (like a winery) nearby! We'll share a full list of recommendations from TNC staff as we get closer to the event.

Keep in touch with Out in Nature .

Images courtesy of The Nature Conservancy. Image 1 by T.S. Long. Image 2 and 3 by Laura Stoecker.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Emiquon Preserve, 11304 North Prairie Road, Lewistown, United States