Lincoln Woods State Park
About
627-Acre State Park With Olney Pond Swimming
Lincoln Woods State Park preserves 627 acres in Lincoln just north of Providence - hardwood forest, Olney Pond freshwater lake, miles of trails, rock-climbing areas, and the only public swim beach in the Providence metro on a state-park lake.
What Kids Can Do
Olney Pond Beach has sandy swim area lifeguarded summer - kids splash, build sandcastles, and rent paddleboats. Five miles of hiking trails wind through hardwood forest - the Lake Loop is the family starter (3 miles, flat). Rock climbing on bouldering walls for older kids and teens. Fishing from the pond shore. Cross-country skiing in winter. Picnic shelters with grills bookable. Equestrian trails for horse rentals nearby [marked: swim beach lifeguarded Memorial Day-Labor Day only - swim at own risk other seasons].
What's Included
Free day-use of trails, beach, picnic shelters, and bouldering areas. Paddleboat rentals seasonal $5-15. Beach lifeguarded summer only.
Experience
Plan 2-4 hours. Almost entirely outdoor - bring swimsuit, sun protection, water, sturdy shoes. About 7 miles north of downtown Providence in Lincoln RI. Free on-site parking.