History of Bennett

In 1924, the state purchased Bennett Spring and part of the surrounding area near Lebanon to create one of the first state parks. Since then, Bennett Spring and its valley have continued to attract visitors.

Following the park’s purchase, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) contributed to much of the park’s modern-day character by building many structures, including cabins, a shelter house, roads, trails, a bridge and the dining lodge, still used by visitors today.

A video will take visitors on a historical walk through time, featuring the history of the area that is now Bennett Spring State Park. Through historic photographs, the video will discuss topics, such as traditional indigenous uses of the area, modern recreational activities, the addition of trout to the spring-fed stream and the history and preservation of the park’s CCC structures.