This is my go- to dig walking park. The main loop around Olney Pond is just about 3 miles and this time of year is a feast for the senses. A myriad of color, the sudsy ration of leaves, the sharp tang of pine sap. It really is hard to beat. Some good rock climbing, trail riding (horses and bikes) kayaking and fishing, too. Free, fun and fantastic foliage, what more do you need?
This park has everything for a family outing. There is a beach, campsites, picnic areas, walking trails, bike and horse trails and boat ramps. You can reserve canopies, tents, grills, etc. Check out their website and have a great day.
Some of the best fall foliage in Rhode Island may be viewed in Lincoln Woods State Park. You will find beautiful reflections of the colorful leaves on the trees in the water. In the summer you'll have the opportunity to swim in the lake. (Changing facilities are available). There are toll booths set up, so I assume there is a charge to enter the park in the summer season. It is free to enter in the fall, walk around the lake and take all the photos you want to. Any time of year, one can walk around the lake.
Hard to believe that this beautiful state park is only 15 minute outside of Providence, feels like you've been transported to the middle of the woods. Great loop around the lake to run or walk with a dog, is stroller friendly as well. If you're a bit more adventurous there are also plenty of trails and hikes through the woods. If you're looking for a picnic there are several sites and it's even possible to reserve one of the pavillions for an event or birthday party. One of my favorite places in Rhode Island.
If you are in Lincoln, you absolutely must make this a priority. Plenty of scenic trails and a lot of events during spring and summer (Great Outdoor Pursuit starts here as do a number of other family events to keep the kids busy during break). If you ride a bike, want to find a safe place for your daily run or need somewhere fun to walk your dog (my Corgi doesn't like the hilly parts but loves the view of the lake and the breeze that comes off it), these woods will be great for you. If you're interested in some of the early history of conservation in RI, there are a number of sign posts that can direct you to some of the oldest conserved land in the United States.My family plans on renting out one of the campsites this summer (go look at the sites before you put your money down as some are so close to the water you tend to get swarms of flies later at night). If you've got kids who need the blow off some energy there is a lot of space with open fields, boat rentals and tiny holes for fishing. On the outer rim of the woods are some fun places to stop at, including a ranch for learning to ride horses and ponies, if you are looking to make it more of a full day event.
Frequently go during the summer to walk the park loop. A nice 2.5 miles work out of mildly hilly paved terrain. Plenty of parking. The only down side to this park are the people that don't pick up after their dogs. Besides that it is quite a nice place close to the city.
We didn't have the time to check out the whole park, but what we did see was attractive with more than the usual amount of picnic tables and places to BBQ! It was quite nice, we enjoyed our short time there.
I can't think of a better way to start the day! Walk around this beautiful man made lake in less than one hour. If you are lucky, you will see deer, blue herons, swans and maybe a turtle laying eggs! Not into walking? The lake is stocked with fish, or you can kayak. Picnic tables are scattered amngst the pine and oak trees. A lovely spot to escape, just minutes away from Provdence.
Great park!! I was looking for a pretty running spot outside the city (PVD) but not too far and this place was perfect. Entrance right off highway not more than 20 min drive from city center. When you arrive you feel you are in nature! The road around the lake is about 3 miles of gorgeous woods, trails and picnic tables. You run/walk on side of road-there is no paved path along it the only drawback. There are many interior trails too. It was so beautiful and peaceful this fall morning. Definitely worth coming to enjoy fall colors or in warmer weather.
My husband and I enjoy hiking. We have found that Lincoln Woods had so many trails, it is like a big made. We enjoy taking different paths. We have seen deer twice. Also, you can sit on the rocks near the water and just enjoy the beautiful view.