Who We Are
And What We Do!
We are a small group (less than 50 people) of determined people who do good things for the park. We could use you, whether its just your dues and your interest in the Park, or more hands to do Projects and help with fundraisers, or bringing more ideas to the table.
Here are some of the accomplishments we’re proud of in the last few years. If you have an idea of something you’d like to see us do for Spring Mill, please let us know! There are many additional projects not featured here but this gives you a flavor of our projects.
Long and short-sleeved T-shirts available for purchase for those who complete the Trail Challenge.
Spring Mill Trail Challenge Sticker
The Spring Mill Trail Challenge is a Year-round hike of 10.8 miles of trails at Spring Mill State Park. Hike the trails, then order a shirt to support the Friends efforts to support Park programs. Hiking is on the honor system, so hike at your own speed and take as long as you like. You have all year to enjoy the special qualities of each of the Park’s trails. Once you have completed all of the trails, go on-line and order a Trail Challenge T-shirt. T-shirts are about $20 each and are available in a variety of sizes and colors. Long-sleeve shirts are also available.
Profits from the sale of the shirts go to fund projects in the park. Complete the hiking challenge at Spring Mill, and then click here to order a shirt. Shirts may be picked up at Good Sports in Bedford, or mailed to your address (for an extra fee). The Friends hope that you will wear your Trail Challenge shirt to promote the Park and the Challenge. We also have free vinyl stickers available at the Nature Center and the Park Office as awards when you have completed the challenge.
Selling souveniers and crafts in the Park.
The Friends secured an all terrain wheelchair for use on designated Park trails.
Mark Young and local girl scouts plant trees acquired by the Friends through an Indiana Parks Association grant. Additional trees have been planted around the Village and Butternut Shelter area with a grant from Smithville Foundation.
The doors of the Grissom Memorial and Nature Center are now accessible due to the efforts of the Friends and grants from Lawrence County Tourism and Lawrence County Community Foundation.
The Friends and Lawrence County Community Foundation published reprints of the history of the Village for interpreters to use in preparing to interpret their cabins.
One of two kayaks purchased for the Park in 2020 by the Friends. Part of the funding was from a Walmart grant.
Two friends share one of several benches provided by the Friends and Lawrence County Community Foundation.
Friends treasurer John Castrale hands a check to the reenactor who plays Abraham Lincoln at some of the Park events. The Friends often support special events by paying for special guests.
The 2021 CRISP (Charity Ride for Indiana State Parks) Motorcycle Ride will be sponsored by Friends from five State Parks touring the parks with independent or led rides. The 2021 ride is scheduled for June 26, 2021.
Friends of Spring Mill State Park Newsletters:
Members receive these newsletters regularly by email or snail mail.
February 2024 Newsletter