Lincoln's New Salem Historical Park

Go back in time at this 700-acre historical park that's been constructed to resemble the village President Lincoln spent his early adult life.

Lincoln’s New Salem Historical Park is comprised of 700 acres and situated just about 20 miles outside of Springfield, Illinois. The site is a reconstruction of the area where the 16^th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, spent most of his early adult life. The community of New Salem helped shape Lincoln as a person and in his career significantly. The site contains 12 log houses, a tavern, ten workshops, stores, mills, and a school that also doubled as a church. All of the buildings have been expertly reconstructed and furnished as they likely would have been in the 1830s. There are many authentic 19th-century artifacts, furnishings, and other fascinating objects throughout the historic site.

If you want to really immerse yourself in the remarkable and historic surroundings that exist here, visitors are welcome to reserve campsites! There are 200 campsites total here, with 100 of those having electric setups. There are two bathhouses on the campground, as well. Various events that are fun for the whole family are held here throughout the year, such as Theatre in the Park, concerts, a fall festival, and several others. From November through April, the site is open from Thursday through Saturday between the hours of 9 am and 4 pm. From May through October, the site is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm. Admission is free for all guests, but donations are greatly appreciated to help maintain and preserve the amazing work that’s been put in here. If you’re in the area or road-tripping along the Illinois River Road, come step back in time and learn fascinating information at Lincoln’s New Salem Historical Park!