Lincoln State Park — Attraction in Santa Claus

I have loved Lincoln Park, but unfortunately, we will not be returning. While I understand this will likely fall on deaf ears, DNR has started applying a new rule at all their campgrounds that we have been going to for over 10 years. The new rule this year about dogs having to be on leashes and how we are no longer able to keep our dogs in cages has totally driven us away. We have camped with our 4 small dogs (between ours and my parents) and used cages for all the years we have camped with no issues. With the leashes they tangle with each other or are so far apart they can't even play. Not to mention getting tangled with any tree, picnic table, fire pit etc. that may be in the way. When DNR approached us, they couldn't even explain why this rule kept the dogs anymore safe then the fencing, he simply said we aren't allowed to have "structures" on the campsite. What in the world is the difference between a fence and a canopy or any other "structure" I see on campsites? I don't think that is the actual reason of course, but my point being is when you have a rule that no one really understands, it seems quite useless. I realize something bad probably happened to one dog one time that jumped a fence but come with some logical standards. I would buy a cover for our fencing, I would make sure the fencing is however much taller it needs to be than our dogs to ensure they can't in fact, jump out. But the rule being there to keep our dogs safer when they are totally exposed, on a leash (that they can chew threw and did), where they are tangled up or on a very short leash isn't even enjoyable. Indiana state parks have always been some of our favorites, but we will not return unless this rule is changed or removed. You've lost some lifelong campers, and while you may not care- we chatted with other campers (that we don't know) who have the same concerns. They likely won't take the time to send a review because we all know it is likely not going to change anything but seeing my son's disappointment when I tell him we had to cancel a trip to another Indiana park (O'Bannon) and stay somewhere else in Kentucky (he loves the hiking trails in O'Bannon) stinks. But, even as a 7-year-old he understands why the rule is a pain (he now prays every night that you all get rid of that rule). DNR has always done a lot of great things, but this, this isn't...

Indiana has great state parks and Lincoln State Park is one of my favorites! I stopped in while driving past to check out the group camp area. (My son reserved it for his Fall wedding.) The lake is a nice size for exploring by foot or vessel and boat rentals are available in season. In the warmer months, there are shows at the amphitheatre and the large beach is open. Nice trails and walking paths. I saw several joggers and dog walkers.

Across the street from the entrance is the Lincoln Boyhood National Park. And I saw what may be a tiny house vacation rental community just before that parks. Owensboro, KY is about 30 minutes away and has a beautiful downtown waterfront park.

There are rustic, modern family cabins, electric and primitive campsites, youth camps, and RV sites in addition to the group camp for up to 150 people with a complete, professional foodservice kitchen.

The group camp is an updated CCC camp I think. I just peered through the windows, but the cottages/cabbins appear to have 3 separate sleeping rooms and a large common area. Each one has a little deck with a full-sized picnic table and fire ring. They are well spaced with electric but no plumbing. Each cottage group has a pit latrine and hand washing sink. There is a giant dining hall that houses the park's Nature Center on the ground floor and a large bathhouse/shower facility with plumbing nearby. Great lake access too!

I held an international group campout at Lincoln State Park 15 years ago. We reserved individual camp sites and various shelters for our classes and group meals. It's perfect for group nature events, reunions, and of course, my son's rustic...

My family and I have gone several times this year to camp in the 'modern' campground in our camper. We love the area, and appreciate having individual water hook ups (in season). Most lots are fairly good sized and easy to get in to. Great trails. We also take our kayaks out on the lake and enjoy biking around the park. Bathrooms have been clean and well maintained every time we've been there, and park staff have been extremely pleasant. I agree with some of the others that park admission should be included in the campsite rental fee. Since they only allow one vehicle at the campsite, they need more parking 'up top.' Note - I agree with the one vehicle per site rule, with the exception of tent camping. I think a camper and vehicle, or a tent and two vehicles. However, the roads are small/narrow and there just isn't enough room for a mid-sized camper and two vehicles. Negatives they can't help - Be ready for lots of kids riding on bikes. I take my kids and we take our bikes. We love riding around the park. Just be aware that you need to park away from the road and that there will be littles riding that may not be able to stop, and may not get out of the way for moving vehicles - our truck has sustained damage from kids on bikes crashing into it (parked off the road by several feet), and while you should always remain vigilant when driving - kids can pop out of nowhere. Overall we love the facility and it's our absolute to go for camping. Close to conveniences (groceries, restaurants) and there's tons to do, including Holiday World at less than...