Lincoln Woods FAQ
These are the questions people ask most about Lincoln Woods State Park, answered from RI DEM's own pages, map and Rhode Island's state park regulations. In short: entry and parking are free, the park is open sunrise to sunset every day, you can swim at a lifeguarded freshwater beach in summer, leashed dogs are welcome except on the beach from April to September, and picnic tables need a permit from April to October.
Visiting
Each answer below links to the page that covers it in full: hours, parking, the beach, Olney Pond, fishing, kayaking, hiking, bouldering, horseback riding, picnic areas and rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lincoln Woods State Park free?
Yes. DEM's map says "None for Entry," and parking is free. Fees apply only to reserved picnic tables ($5 a day), game fields ($20 a day), the Little League field ($50 a season) and shelters.
Where is Lincoln Woods State Park?
In Lincoln, Rhode Island, between Routes 146 and 123. DEM lists the address as 2 Manchester Print Works Road, Lincoln, RI 02865; a second entrance is off Twin River Road.
What are the hours at Lincoln Woods?
Sunrise to sunset, every day of the year. State rules do not allow anyone in a state park after dark without written permission.
Can you swim at Lincoln Woods?
Yes, at Frank Moody State Beach, the freshwater beach on Olney Pond. Lifeguards are on duty 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in season, as staffing allows. Swimming elsewhere in the pond is not allowed.
Is there a fee for the beach at Lincoln Woods?
No. Lincoln Woods is not one of Rhode Island's eight paid state beaches, and the park charges no entry or parking fee.
Are dogs allowed at Lincoln Woods?
Yes, on a leash no longer than six feet. Dogs may not go on the beach from April 1 to September 30.
Are there bathrooms at Lincoln Woods?
Yes, from May 1 to October 31, at the beach end of Olney Pond.
Can you fish at Lincoln Woods?
Yes. DEM stocks Olney Pond with trout in spring and fall. Anglers 15 and older need a Rhode Island freshwater licence, and a trout stamp to keep trout.
Can you kayak at Lincoln Woods?
Yes. Launch from the boat ramp on the east shore. Motorboats are limited to under ten horsepower and banned on summer weekends and holidays.
Can you go rock climbing at Lincoln Woods?
Yes. State rules permit rock climbing, including bouldering, but every climber must sign DEM's release and waiver of liability first.
Can you ride horses at Lincoln Woods?
Yes. Sunset Stables, the concession DEM lists, runs guided trail rides, and Zone A's bridle trails are for horses only.
Can you mountain bike at Lincoln Woods?
Yes, in Zone B, east of Quinsnicket Road. Zone A is horses only.
Do you need a permit to picnic at Lincoln Woods?
To use a picnic table from the second Saturday in April to October 31, yes. Call the office at (401) 723-7892.
Can you drink alcohol at Lincoln Woods?
No. Rhode Island's state park rules do not allow alcohol at Lincoln Woods.
Can you camp at Lincoln Woods?
No. It is a day-use park that closes at sunset.
Can you ice skate at Lincoln Woods?
Only when DEM announces safe ice. Lincoln Woods is one of three state parks where DEM tests the ice.
How big is Lincoln Woods State Park?
627 acres, according to DEM, round the 130-acre Olney Pond.
Why is it called Lincoln Woods?
It was named after Abraham Lincoln and officially began on his birthday, February 12, 1909. It was Rhode Island's first state park.