Morris State Park

Five tiny state parks reveal ancient fossils, Lincoln ties and colonial history

Across Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, and Massachusetts, little-known state parks reveal extraordinary natural and historical treasures hiding in plain sight. From Channahon’s river confluence to Falls of the Ohio’s vast Devonian fossil beds, Lincoln Homestead’s Lincoln-era roots, Morris State Park’s protection of Crowley’s Ridge, and Roxbury Heritage’s historic John Eliot Square and First Church, these small gems offer accessible, richly meaningful experiences.