Historic National Road - Illinois
Lincoln Trail State Park, IL

Named after the trail Abraham Lincoln's family followed during their move from Indiana to Illinois in 1831, the Lincoln Trail State Park not only contains a historical experience but offers a recreational adventure as well. Visitors will find a plethora of opportunities available at the state park, whether your fancy leads to hiking, fishing, boating, or just lounging in the outdoors.

Experience first-hand the natural surroundings of the park by rambling past the boat docks and over the foot bridges and stairways of the Beech Tree Trail. This half-mile trail will allow a view of the beech maple forest. Keep a look out for the rare squaw-root and beech drop wildflowers. If you would like a longer hike, try the two-mile Sand Ford Nature Trail where you'll experience the habitat changes of the park.

Lincoln Trail Lake will wet the appetite of anglers and boaters alike. This 146-acre lake, located in the southwest corner of the park, was created under the Dingell-Johnson Act. The docking facility includes a launching ramp and parking for boat trailers, but if you find yourself without a boat, rentals are available at the concession stand. Fishers can reel in largemouth bass, bluegill, redear, sinfish, crappie and channel catfish from the lake, but make sure to become familiar with size and creel limits.

When visiting in the winter, Lincoln Trail State Park still offers the thrill of ice skating or cross-country skiing, when weather permits, or bundle up for excellent ice fishing.