Stephens Lake Park

Stephens Lake allows for swimming at its unguarded beach, fishing, and non-motorized boating. Please note that non-motorized boats are restricted to the east side of the boardwalk.

The trails at Stephens Lake Park are generally considered easy. Both the 0.6-mile hard-surface trail circling the lake and the 1.7-mile hard-surface perimeter trail offer gentle terrain, making them suitable for walkers, runners, and cyclists of all fitness levels.

While parking is generally available, it can fill up quickly, especially during summer weekends, holidays, or when events like the Roots N Blues Festival are taking place. Arriving earlier in the day is often recommended to secure a spot.

Yes, Stephens Lake Park is accessible via public transportation. Visitors can check local Columbia, MO transit schedules for routes that serve the park area.

Stephens Lake Park is highly family-friendly, featuring three playgrounds, spraygrounds that operate from May to September, and a small sandy beach for swimming. There are also open play areas and picnic shelters, making it ideal for families with children.

Dogs are generally welcome at Stephens Lake Park, including on its trails, but they must be kept on a leash. Visitors are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Specific restrictions may apply to certain areas or during events.

Yes, the park features hard-surface trails, including the 0.6-mile loop around the lake and the 1.7-mile perimeter trail, which are generally flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for wheelchair users and strollers.

During winter, when conditions permit, Stephens Lake Park transforms into a cold-weather destination. It offers a dedicated sledding hill, and opportunities for ice skating and ice fishing on the lake, making it a popular spot for seasonal recreation.

While the park itself doesn't host commercial establishments, its central location in Columbia, Missouri, means there are various cafes, pubs, and hotels available within a short driving distance. Some options might be within a longer walk, depending on the specific location.

Yes, all anglers fishing in Missouri waters, including Stephens Lake, are required to possess a valid Missouri fishing permit, unless exempt by law. You can find more information on permit requirements through the Missouri Department of Conservation website.

As an arboretum and a natural space, Stephens Lake Park is home to various wildlife. Visitors might spot different bird species, waterfowl on the lake, small mammals, and various insects. The park's diverse plant collections also attract pollinators.

The land has a rich history, dating back to the early 1800s when the David Gordon House and Collins Log Cabin were built. It was later owned by Stephens College before being acquired by the City of Columbia in 2001 and opened as a public park. It also contains a marker for the historic location of Sherman's Dam.