All posts by Friends of Lincoln State Park

Latest News

Latest COVID-19 Update From Indiana State Parks

Here is the latest update from Indiana State Parks concerning COVID-19. In keeping with this guidance, the Nature Center at Lincoln State Park is closed, however outdoor programs such as the naturalist led hikes will continue as scheduled within State Department of Health guidelines…

As posted on the Indiana State Parks Facebook page…

Updated COVID-19 Information (03/22/20): Indiana State Parks, lakes, and inns remain open, with some modifications and exceptions:

  • Entrance fees at all properties are temporarily suspended.
  • Modern and primitive campgrounds, inns and cabins are open (fees still apply), along with our hiking trails, boat ramps and picnic areas.
  • Group camps, youth tent and rally campgrounds and rentable recreation buildings are closed.
  • Our property offices are open, but with limited public access.
  • Our nature centers, indoor program facilities, and historic buildings are closed, but our interpretive naturalists will still offer outdoor programming within State Department of Health gathering guidelines, and you will see them out in our parks answering questions and sharing information.
  • Our inn restaurants are serving carry-out meals only.
  • Our state park inn pools and the aquatic center at Abe Martin Lodge are closed.
  • All IDNR-managed facilities at J.E. Roush, Salamonie, Mississinewa, Brookville, Cecil M. Harden, Cagles Mill, Patoka and Monroe lakes (campgrounds, wildlife areas, boat ramps, trails, etc.) remain open. However, public facilities managed directly by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at or below the dams at these lakes (tailwater areas, observation mounds, etc.) are closed.

This is a fluid situation, and we are following the lead of the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) and local county health departments as we monitor the virus and its potential impacts. Thank you for your patience, and you can read the most current information about what we are doing at on.IN.gov/dnrcovid19. Now please #washyourhands, practice #socialdistancing, and #staysafe.

Latest News

Scheduled Hikes Still On This Weekend

Interpretive Naturalist Michael Crews snapped these photos this morning of a beaver and a couple of common loons inside the park. He also informs us that the scheduled hikes for this weekend are still on.

Meet at the Nature Center and plan on practicing social distancing. Obviously, if you are sick or have been exposed to someone who may be sick, please stay home. Be safe, be cautious, be prepared.

You can view the schedule on our website here: https://lspfriends.com/index.php/events/

Latest News

Share Your Favorite Lincoln State Park Photo

With many folks stuck at home and looking for things to do, we’re going to try a little experiment. Do you have a favorite photo of Lincoln State Park from the past or from a more recent memory? We’ve created a form where you can submit your photo along with a description and we’ll share them here and on our Instagram and Twitter accounts. Hoping to see some interesting photos and maybe some from days gone by.

To use the form you will need to have a Google account. If you need one, it’s very simple to create one. Here is the link for submitting your photos: https://forms.gle/5UoV9KaWixbufHZo7

Or post your photo with the hashtag #LincolnStatePark and we’ll grab and share them from there. Just be sure to include a description of when and where you took the photo and why it’s special to you.

Check out our Photo Shares page to see a collection of all the photos we have received and shared so far!

Latest News

Indiana DNR Statement Regarding Coronavirus

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources and Division of State Parks issued the following statement and information today on social media concerning the possible impacts of Coronavirus on operations at Indiana State Parks…

“The Indiana Department of Natural Resources is committed to ensuring that our guests and staff continue to have safe and memorable outdoor experiences at our state parks, state forests, fish and wildlife areas, nature preserves and state recreation areas in light of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19.)  Our DNR properties remain open for public use, and you can read more information about our response at https://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/7881.htm.  (Photo: Camping at Patoka Lake by Heather DeLorenzo.)”
Events, Fitness, Fundraising

5k Registration Now Open

11th Annual Mr. Lincoln’s Neighborhood 5K Run/Walk Set For May 2nd

Early Online Registration Now Open

LINCOLN CITY, IND.—  The Friends of Lincoln State Park and Indiana Department of Natural Resources will once again co-host the 11th annual Mr. Lincoln’s Neighborhood 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, May 2 at 9:00 a.m. CDT in Lincoln State Park.  This year’s 5K run/walk route will start and end at the Lake Lincoln Beach parking lot.  The route will consist of the paved park roadways and some hiking trails.  Prizes will be awarded to the first place male and female finishers for both adults and kids under 16.  Random door prizes will also be awarded during the event including Indiana State Park annual passes, gift cards, gift certificates, and more.    

“There has been an emphasis within State Parks recently to encourage the public to stay fit and active by visiting Indiana State Parks and taking advantage of the miles of hiking trails they have to offer.  Our 5K through Mr. Lincoln’s Indiana neighborhood is a perfect way for folks of all ages to start or continue a fitness habit and enjoy the natural beauty state parks offer,” said Dan Wilkinson, president of the Friends of Lincoln State Park.  “The 5K is a fun and easy way to support the many projects and events we do at the park through our Friends group.  Our goals for 2020 include funding for a new cinnamon raccoon mount at the Nature Center, replacement of aging bulletin boards within the park, replacement of American chestnut trees near the Lincoln Bicentennial Plaza, repair of damage to the new fishing pier, funding for a summer performance by the Honey Vines at the park, sponsorship of “The Goonies” movie night at Lincoln Amphitheatre, and hosting of the annual Fall Frolic events in October,” Wilkinson said.   

The early registration discount saves entrants $10 when registering by the early deadline of April 28.  Interested walkers and runners may get more details, download registration forms and event flyers, or register online at lspfriends.com or by sending a completed registration form with a check or money order made payable to Friends of Lincoln State Park, PO Box 601, Chrisney, Indiana, 47611. 

  • The early registration fee is $20 per person registering on or before April 28 and $30 from April 29 until race day.  
  • All event participants will receive an event t-shirt while supplies last, with t-shirts guaranteed for early registrants.  Registration forms are also available at the Lincoln State Park office.
  • The registration fee does not include the $7 in-state or $9 out-of-state per car gate fee to enter Lincoln State Park.
  • All proceeds will benefit Friends of Lincoln State Park to support special projects and events at Lincoln State Park. 

For more information regarding the 5K run/walk, participants may call the Lincoln State Park office at (812) 937-4710 or visit lspfriends.com. Lincoln State Park is located 5 miles west of Santa Claus, Indiana on State Road 162 in Lincoln City across the highway from Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

Event sponsors as of the date of release: Dubois County Tire, Holiday Foods, Lincoln Amphitheatre, Martin-Serrin Insurance, Spencer Industries, Thermwood Corporation, Price & Associates, LLC, Julie E. Schmitt Tax & Accounting Service, Uebelhor & Sons, and Universal Design Associates.

ABOUT FRIENDS OF LINCOLN STATE PARK

Formed in June 2004, the Friends of Lincoln State Park is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide volunteer and financial support for events and projects within Lincoln State Park which includes Col. William Jones Home. The organization has invested over $100,000 toward projects and activities at Lincoln State Park since its inception.  Membership in the Friends of Lincoln State Park starts at $25 with varying levels of membership. Membership is open to everyone and all are invited to attend monthly meetings held on the third Wednesday of each month at 7:00 PM in the Nature Center. More information about Lincoln State Park and the Friends of Lincoln State Park can be found by visiting lspfriends.com where visitors can get information about membership, activities and events, membership information, sign up to receive a monthly newsletter, and learn about the history contained within the park.

Fitness, Hiking, Naturalist Programs

February hiking opportunities

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Whether you’re looking to stay active and continue a fitness habit or just embarking on a new healthy lifestyle to get in shape, your Indiana state parks (especially Lincoln State Park in our book) provide the perfect place to get moving.  Hitting the trails is a great way to not only get your heart rate going, but to connect with nature.  Regular hiking at your nearest state park will improve your physical health AND your mental health.  So, what are you waiting for?  Take a hike already!  

Interpretive Naturalist Michael Crews will be leading regular hikes in throughout the year in 2020.  This is an opportunity to perhaps see areas of the park you’ve never seen before and to learn about the historical and natural resources of Lincoln State Park.  Below is a schedule of February hikes.  Hope to see you there! 

FRIDAY SATURDAY
LINCOLN STATE PARK FEBRUARY HIKING SCHEDULE
Feb. 7
8 AM Weber Lake Hike – Meet at Troy Rd trail head for a 2 mi hike to Weber Lake.

2 PM Sarah Lincoln Woods Nature Preserve– Meet at the Nature Center for a hike through the most mature forest area in the park (1.5 mi).
Feb. 8
8 AM Beaver Hike – Meet at the Nature Center for some off trail hiking (over 2 mi).

2 PM Abe’s Neighborhood Walk – Meet at the Nature Center for the 1.5 mi hike through Abe’s old neighborhood.
Feb. 14
8 AM Trail 4 Hike – Hike to the Gentry Home Site. This one is 4 mi so bring a snack.
Feb. 15
Nature Center Open 10 AM-2 PM – No scheduled hikes.
Feb. 21
8 AM Trail 2 Hike – Meet at the Nature Center for this roughly 3 mi hike on Trail 2.

2 PM Fire Tower Hike – Meet at the Nature Center for a 1.5 mi hike to the fire tower.
Feb. 22
8 AM Trail 4 Hike – Hike to the Gentry Home Site. This one is 4 mi so bring a snack.

2 PM Abe’s Neighborhood Walk – Meet at the Nature Center for the 1.5 mi hike through Abe’s old neighborhood.
Feb. 28
8 AM Beaver Hike – Meet at the Nature Center for some off trail hiking (over 2 mi).

2 PM Abe’s Neighborhood Walk – Meet at the Nature Center for the 1.5 mi hike through Abe’s old neighborhood.
Feb. 29
8 AM Weber Lake Hike – Meet at Troy Rd trail head for a 2 mi hike to Weber Lake.

2 PM Sarah Lincoln Woods Nature Preserve– Meet at the Nature Center for a hike through the most mature forest area in the park (1.5 mi).
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January hiking opportunities

Whether you’re looking to stay active and continue a fitness habit or just embarking on a new healthy lifestyle to get in shape, your Indiana state parks (especially Lincoln State Park in our book) provide the perfect place to get walking.  Hitting the trails and going for a hike is a great way to not only get your heart rate going, but to connect with nature.  Regular hiking at your nearest state park will improve your physical health AND your mental health.  So, what are you waiting for?  Let’s start hiking!  

Interpretive Naturalist Michael Crews will be leading regular hikes in January and throughout the year in 2020.  This is an opportunity to perhaps see areas of the park you’ve never seen before and to learn about the historical and natural resources of Lincoln State Park.  Below is a schedule of January hikes.  Hope to see you there! 

FRIDAY SATURDAY
LINCOLN STATE PARK JANUARY HIKING SCHEDULE
Jan. 10
8 AM Weber Lake Hike – Meet at Troy Rd trail head for a 2 mi hike to Weber Lake.

2 PM Sarah Lincoln Woods Nature Preserve– Meet at the Nature Center for a hike through the most mature forest area in the park (1.5 mi).
Jan. 11
8 AM Beaver Hike – Meet at the Nature Center for some off trail hiking (over 2 mi).

2 PM Abe’s Neighborhood Walk – Meet at the Nature Center for the 1.5 mi hike through Abe’s old neighborhood.
Jan. 17
8 AM Trail 4 Hike – Hike to the Gentry Home Site. This one is 4 mi so bring a snack.

2 PM Abe’s Neighborhood Walk – Meet at the Nature Center for the 1.5 mi hike through Abe’s old neighborhood.
Jan. 18
8 AM Trail 2 Hike – Meet at the Nature Center for this roughly 3 mi hike on Trail 2.

2 PM Fire Tower Hike – Meet at the Nature Center for a 1.5 mi hike to the fire tower.
Jan. 24
8 AM Trail 2 Hike – Meet at the Nature Center for this roughly 3 mi hike on Trail 2.

2 PM Fire Tower Hike – Meet at the Nature Center for a 1.5 mi hike to the fire tower.
Jan. 25
8 AM Trail 4 Hike – Hike to the Gentry Home Site. This one is 4 mi so bring a snack.

2 PM Abe’s Neighborhood Walk – Meet at the Nature Center for the 1.5 mi hike through Abe’s old neighborhood.
Jan. 31
8 AM Beaver Hike – Meet at the Nature Center for some off trail hiking (over 2 mi).

2 PM Abe’s Neighborhood Walk – Meet at the Nature Center for the 1.5 mi hike through Abe’s old neighborhood. 		See you on the trails!

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Celebrate the Apollo 11 Moon Landing at Lincoln State Park

Neil Armstrong planted the American flag on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission on July 19, 1969 – 50 years ago.

“One small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind” -Neil Armstrong. This Saturday will mark 50 years since astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldren became the first men to set foot on the moon on the Apollo 11 mission. The mission was the culmination of a decade long project to win the space race inspired by President John F. Kennedy.

The Lincoln State Park naturalist program will host a very special program this Friday evening from 7:00-10:00 PM CT to commemorate this important and historic anniversary. The event will begin at 7:00 PM at the Lakeside Shelter with some moon related crafts including an opportunity to make your very own moon dust. This will be followed by a very special moon story told by storyteller, Susan Fowler. After the story, there will be a hike down to Lincoln State Park’s very own “Moon Tree” for a special presentation. Finally, we’ll return to the Lakeside Shelter where you can take part in some moon-gazing through a telescope and some other visual aid devices.

There will also be some prizes to be given away…Moon Pies, what else would you expect? The Friends of Lincoln State Park will also be giving away free popcorn and will have some cool Lincoln State Park items available for sale.

So, load up the family and come on out to Lincoln State Park on Friday night to commemorate the anniversary of the moon landing!

WHAT: Moon Day Program at Lincoln State Park
WHERE: Lakeside Shelter
WHEN: Friday, July 19 from 7:00-10:00 PM CT
COST: $7.00/vehicle park entrance fee