The park was established in 1932 to commemorate the 123rd anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth.
Abraham Lincoln's mother, Nancy Hanks Lincoln, is buried in the adjacent national memorial site.
The park's stone structures, including the amphitheater, were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Great Depression.
Lake Lincoln is a man-made reservoir created to provide recreational water access in the park.
The park serves as a migration stop for various bird species along the Mississippi Flyway.
The Pioneer Village within the park utilizes historical construction techniques to replicate period dwellings.
Lincoln State Park is a 1,747-acre site centered on the formative years of Abraham Lincoln, who lived on this land from age 7 to 21. The park features the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial, which commemorates the site of the Lincoln family farm. Visitors can explore 10 miles of hiking trails that wind through wooded hills and around the 80-acre Lake Lincoln. The park includes a reconstructed 1800s-era pioneer farmstead reflecting life during the early 19th century. Educational programming focuses on frontier history, including blacksmithing and candle-making demonstrations. The park offers extensive facilities for camping, boating, and picnicking. A central amphitheater serves as a venue for theatrical performances about Lincoln's life. The landscape preserves the rural character of the Pigeon Creek community where Lincoln matured.
The lakeside view featuring the reflection of the surrounding forested hills.
Check the Indiana State Park website for seasonal event schedules before arrival to catch living history demonstrations.
Bring insect repellent during the summer months as the wooded terrain and lakeside areas are prone to mosquitoes.
The park is adjacent to the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial; combine both into a single trip to understand the full scope of the historical site.
Attempting to swim in Lake Lincoln outside of the designated beach area or during unmonitored periods.
The campground typically operates on a seasonal basis, closing for winter months; check for localized trail closures following heavy rain.
Practice Leave No Trace principles; keep pets on a leash at all times and stay on marked trails to protect local flora.
