There is a wonderful picnic area, complete with a restroom facility, at the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park. In addition to a covered pavilion with ten tables and two grills are twelve picnic pads—private paved areas that have their own tables, grills, benches, and garbage cans. Half of the pads are in the shade and the other half are out in the sunshine, and all are situated on level terrain. I’ve seen a lot of National Park picnic areas, but this is the first I’ve seen with such a convenient set up.
All individual tables are taken on a first come, first served basis. The pavilion, on the other hand, can be reserved for a small fee, and groups of 25 or more people must make a reservation. Call (270) 358-3137 or visit the National Park Service’s Picnic Area—Special Use Permits web page for Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park. If not reserved, the pavilion is also available on a first come, first served basis.
On the opposite side of the road from the picnic area is a large, wide open field. It’s not totally level, but it’s still a great place for kids to play or perhaps toss a football or Frisbee.
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Last updated on June 19, 2024