The Visitor Center is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 12 PM and 1 PM to 3 PM. It is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and major holidays.
There is no entrance fee to visit Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial. Admission is free for all visitors.
From Evansville, take Hwy 162 southwest, a 43-mile journey through Indiana’s heartland, to a historic farm where a young president’s story unfolds.
Parking options at Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial are not explicitly detailed, but general parking is available near the Visitor Center and other facilities. However, specific details on RV sizes, motorcycle parking, overnight parking, and fees are not provided.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
In the heart of southern Indiana, the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial stands as a poignant tribute to the formative years of America’s 16th president, Abraham Lincoln. This 200-acre site, where Lincoln spent 14 pivotal years of his life from 1816 to 1830, is a living historical tapestry that weaves together the rugged beauty of the frontier and the enduring legacy of a national icon.
The memorial is set amidst a rolling landscape of wooded trails and open fields, evoking the pioneer life that shaped Lincoln’s early years. The Living Historical Farm, an open-air museum, recreates the homestead where Lincoln grew up, complete with a cabin, outbuildings, and split rail fences. Here, visitors can witness rangers in period clothing engaging in activities typical of the 1820s, such as farming and craftsmanship.
A stroll along the scenic Lincoln Boyhood Trail reveals the gravesite of Lincoln’s mother, Nancy Hanks Lincoln, and the Cabin Site Memorial, each a solemn reminder of the family’s humble beginnings. The visitor center, with its museum and memorial halls, offers a deeper dive into Lincoln’s life through exhibits and a 15-minute orientation film.
As the seasons change, the memorial transforms: spring brings blooming wildflowers and the chirping of birds; summer is marked by the lush growth of gardens and field crops; autumn paints the landscape with vibrant hues; and winter cloaks the area in a serene silence. Special events, such as ranger-led tours and historical reenactments, enrich the visitor experience.
For those seeking to immerse themselves further, nearby Lincoln State Park offers additional trails and the Little Pigeon Baptist Church cemetery, where Lincoln’s sister is buried. Local outfitters and artisan towns in the area provide a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage, making the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to connect with America’s historic past in a setting of natural beauty and historical significance.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Annual visitors
- 147 443
- Established year
- 1962
Top 3 Facts about Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial
The site includes the Pioneer Cemetery, where at least 27 settlers, including Abraham Lincoln’s mother, Nancy Hanks Lincoln, are buried, highlighting the historical significance of the area. The cemetery is part of a larger historic landscape that spans several acres.
In this historic landscape, sassafras and oak trees blaze with autumn color, while blue-tailed skinks bask on sun-kissed steps. White-tailed deer graze at sunset, and scarlet tanagers flit through the shrubbery. The deciduous forest, replanted in the 1930s, is home to Virginia opossums, raccoons, and coyotes. Breeding bird surveys have recorded 52 species, including bluebirds, adding to the rich biodiversity of this ancestral land. Cushaw squash, a legacy crop, thrives here, connecting visitors to the past.
In this serene Indiana landscape, meandering trails weave through a restored forest, echoing the wilderness of Abraham Lincoln’s boyhood. The area, once heavily deforested, now boasts a rejuvenated ecosystem, with trails that reflect the wonderment and exploration of Lincoln’s early years. The memorial’s 200 acres include a formal core and meandering paths, set against a backdrop of rolling hills and wooded areas, creating a contemplative and immersive natural setting.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a summer visit to avoid winter closures. Arrive early to explore trails and visitor center. Wear comfortable shoes, bring bug spray, and pack meals as options are limited. Check seasonal hours before your trip.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy hiking boots, and a waterproof jacket. For camping, bring a season-appropriate tent, sleeping bag, and multi-tool. Don’t forget headlamps, kindling, and a refillable water dispenser. Check campground amenities to avoid duplicates.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the oak-hickory forest by staying on trails, avoiding stream disturbance, and not feeding wildlife. Wear appropriate footwear and layered clothing for seasonal weather. Leave no trace to preserve the habitat for deer, foxes, and birds.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water areas, and check weather conditions. Follow park signs and rules. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 812-937-4541.
Seasons
In spring, as temperatures rise from the 50s to 70s, vibrant colors bloom across the historic trails. Experience the Solar Eclipse Programs in April, and explore the Living Historical Farm, open mid-April. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, this season offers mild weather and unique educational events.
In the warm summer months of June to August, with temperatures often in the 80s and 90s, experience the vibrant history of a pioneer homestead. Visit the Living Historical Farm, where rangers in period clothing bring the 1820s to life. Enjoy scenic trails and the gravesite of Nancy Hanks Lincoln. While the heat can be intense, the summer is ideal for immersive outdoor activities and events like the Lincoln Amphitheatre performances nearby.
Experience the vibrant fall colors of Indiana from September to October, with mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and crisp air. Celebrate National Public Lands Day on September 28, and enjoy scenic trails, a living historical farm, and historic sites amidst the autumn foliage. Ideal for a serene and enriching getaway.
Visit from December to February for a serene winter landscape, with temperatures often in the 20s-40s°F. While grounds are open daylight to dusk, limited visitor center hours and chilly weather make it less ideal for some. However, the tranquil trails and historic sites offer a unique, undisturbed winter experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the memorial is Evansville, which is 43 miles to the west of Lincoln City. Evansville is located in southwestern Indiana and is accessible via Interstate 64 and US 231.
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Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash no longer than six feet. They are permitted on the 2 miles of hiking trails and roads, but not in public buildings. Owners must keep them restrained to protect the dogs, park resources, and wildlife.
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Parking is free at the memorial. There are picnic tables and parking available in the farm area.
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You can explore the Living Historical Farm, a re-created pioneer homestead where Abraham Lincoln spent his childhood from 1816 to 1830. The farm features a cabin, outbuildings, and period activities demonstrated by rangers in historic clothing. There are also hiking trails, including the Lincoln Boyhood Trail and the Boyhood Nature Trail, and you can visit the gravesite of Abraham Lincoln’s mother, Nancy Hanks Lincoln, and the Cabin Site Memorial. The Visitor Center has two Memorial Halls, a museum, and an orientation film, and a bookstore with related items. The park grounds are open from daylight to dusk, and the Visitor Center is open daily from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and 1:00 to 4:00 pm.