Friends of Land Between the Lakes

Friends of Land Between the Lakes is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that serves as the official nonprofit partner of the U.S. Forest Service at Land Between the Lakes. Its core purpose is to support the Forest Service in delivering high-quality programs, services, and visitor experiences across the recreation area. 

The organization focuses on:

• Educational programming – providing environmental education, cultural history interpretation, and hands-on learning experiences for visitors and students

• Volunteer engagement – organizing and managing thousands of volunteer hours that support conservation, maintenance, and public programs

• Fundraising and financial support – generating private funding, grants, and donations to enhance facilities, programs, and special projects

• Recreation and visitor services – helping operate attractions, events, and interpretive sites that enrich the visitor experience

Friends of LBL plays a critical role in bridging public and private support, allowing the Forest Service to expand its mission beyond what federal funding alone can provide. The nonprofit helps preserve the area’s natural resources and cultural heritage while promoting sustainable recreation and increasing visitation. 

In essence, the organization ensures that Land Between the Lakes remains a well-managed, educational, and accessible public land, supporting over a million visitors each year through a strong public–nonprofit partnership.