Arrival and Early Move In Information
Arrival Options for August 9, 2026
Welcome to the Dawg Days New Student Retreat! We’re excited to have you join us for an unforgettable experience. To ensure a smooth arrival, please review the following information.
Students may arrive in Carbondale by one of the following methods:
Parent/Guardian Drop-off
If you're being dropped off, please meet at Lot 56 by 1:30 pm. From there, a bus will transport you to the Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center.
Personal Vehicle
- Arrive by 1:30 pm.
- Park your vehicle in Lot 56.
- Submit your vehicle’s make, model, and license plate number to the Dawg Days Camp Director by August 1st.
Important: Vehicles not registered for Dawg Days in advance risk receiving parking tickets and potentially being towed while you’re away.
Marion Regional Airport
Students arriving via the Marion Regional Airport should contact the Dawg Days Camp Director directly to schedule a van pick-up. Plan to arrive by 1:30 pm on August 9th at the latest.
Early Move-In Information
Arrival and Early Move-In Confirmation Form
All registered Dawg Days participants must complete the Arrival and Early Move-In Confirmation Form and must do so by August 1st to secure their spot for early move-in. The form will be sent out via the registration software used for Dawg Days.
Early Move-In Logistics
Key pick-up times will run from 8 AM until 12 PM. Key pick-up locations, depending on the student's housing arrangements and can be seen below. Arrive early to ensure a smooth move-in and avoid feeling rushed before the 1:30 pm drop-off.
- Thompson Point (West Campus): Lentz Dining Hall
- Schneider Hall: Schneider Hall
- Mae Smith Hall: Mae Smith Hall
- Neely Hall: Neely Hall
- Wall & Grand: Building 1 (Cedar)
Important Update for 2026: Due to the impending upgrade of SIU identification cards, students attending Dawg Days in the fall of 2026 must bring with them a copy of a state-issued ID to receive their key from SIU Housing.