3 Best Public Parks in Columbia, MO

“Stephens Lake Park is known for its 11-acre fishing and historical significance. The park has reserved shelters, art sculptures, playgrounds, and walking trails. Stephens Lake Park is famous for numerous tree collections, including red oak, conifer, fruit, and nut trees. In 2017, Stephens Lake Park was awarded Level II accreditation by the ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program and the Morton Arboretum. Stephens Lake Park is the centre for outdoor winter sports, concert series, and community festivals. The park also has a Hindman Memorial Garden, Children’s Grove, and demonstration rain gardens. The fishing lake is also in the park; you can enjoy fishing with your kids.”

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“Columbia Cosmopolitan Recreation Area (Cosmo Park) is one of the two regional parks in the city's park system. The park hosts the annual Show-Me State Games and various tournaments such as soccer, lacrosse, baseball, golf, and skateboarding. It features the Steinberg Playground, Columbia Skate Park, and L. A. Nickell Golf Course. Additionally, the park serves as a trailhead for the Bear Creek Trail. Dogs have approximately 70 acres to roam leash-free in the Bear Creek Nature Area within the Columbia Cosmopolitan Recreation Area. Visitors can enjoy fishing in the lake, and access to the nature area is available from the Skate Park parking lot. Columbia Cosmopolitan Recreation Area offers ample opportunities for kids to have fun.”

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“Albert-Oakland Park has a 79-acre parkland with Columbia's largest municipal pool, two 18-hole disc golf courses, lighted baseball/softball fields, a basketball court, a lighted tennis court, and much more. The park has a trailhead for the 4.8-mile Bear Creek Trail. Albert-Oakland Park also contains outdoor pools and a pool bathhouse. Albert-Oakland Park has a mini picnic area with free shelters for enjoying the shade, along with water play areas available. They provide two 18-hole disc golf courses and six dedicated pickleball courts. Overall, it is a beautiful park with many amenities. The park is also a safe and comfortable place for kids to enjoy themselves and have fun with their families.”

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