Stephens Lake Park

Near Stephens Lake Park, there are several excellent dining options. 44 Canteen offers a stylish taproom experience with updated pub fare and a great selection of brews. For those interested in seasonal fare, Barred Owl Butcher & Table provides a rustic-chic atmosphere with elevated pub dishes. Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux is ideal for sports enthusiasts, offering a lively atmosphere with burgers and local beers. Addison's - An American Grill is known for its colorful venue and eclectic menu, while Big Mama's Cafe serves classic comfort food.

For accommodations near Stephens Lake Park, several hotels offer a range of options. The Broadway Columbia - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel provides upscale lodging with modern amenities and a rooftop bar. Stoney Creek Hotel Columbia - University Area offers a lodge-inspired stay with a swim-through pool and free breakfast. Wingate by Wyndham Columbia is a simple yet convenient option with free Wi-Fi and a pool. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Columbia, MO offers basic accommodations with a pool and free breakfast.

Stephens Lake Park offers a variety of amenities to enhance visitor experience. The park features restrooms, picnic areas, and reservable shelters. It also includes playgrounds, a swimming beach, and spraygrounds, making it a family-friendly destination. The park's gardens, such as the Darwin and Axie Hindman Discovery Garden, add to its natural beauty. Additionally, the park provides opportunities for fishing and non-motorized boating on the lake.

The park's facilities are well-maintained, with paved trails suitable for walking and biking. The presence of waterfalls and art sculptures adds to the park's aesthetic appeal. Visitors can also enjoy the park's hammock village, where they can relax in a serene environment.

The park's amenities cater to a wide range of interests, from nature lovers to families seeking recreational activities.

Stephens Lake Park offers a diverse range of activities for visitors. Swimming and fishing are popular pastimes, with the lake stocked with species like Black Bass, Catfish, and Bluegill. The park also features hiking and biking trails, including a 0.6-mile lake trail and a 1.7-mile perimeter trail. Visitors can enjoy paddleboarding and kayaking on the lake, adding to the park's recreational appeal.

The park hosts various community events and festivals throughout the year, including the Roots N Blues Festival, which attracts music lovers from across the region. The amphitheater is a focal point for outdoor concerts and performances, enhancing the park's cultural offerings.

For families, the park's playgrounds and spraygrounds provide a fun and interactive environment, especially during warmer months.

Stephens Lake Park offers several accessibility features to ensure that all visitors can enjoy its facilities. The park's trails are paved and wide enough for wheelchairs, providing easy access to the lake and other amenities. Restrooms are also wheelchair accessible, located throughout the park to accommodate visitors with mobility needs.

The park's playgrounds and picnic areas are designed to be inclusive, allowing families with members who have disabilities to participate fully in park activities. Additionally, the park's event spaces, such as the amphitheater, are accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy cultural events and performances.

Parking at Stephens Lake Park is convenient and free, with a large parking lot available to accommodate visitors. The ample space ensures that even on busy days, finding a spot is generally not a problem. The proximity of the parking area to the park's amenities makes it easy for visitors to access the lake, trails, and other facilities without much hassle.

The free parking is a significant advantage, allowing families and groups to enjoy a day out without additional costs. The park's layout ensures that parking areas are well-integrated into the overall design, maintaining the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Stephens Lake Park has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The David Gordon House, built in 1823 using slave labor, is a significant historical landmark. The park's transformation from private ownership to a public space reflects the community's efforts to preserve its natural and cultural heritage.

The park is home to unique wildlife, including the *Enchenopa binotata*, and features a variety of fish species in the lake. The annual Roots N Blues Festival adds to the park's cultural significance, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

The park's Level II Arboretum Accreditation highlights its importance as a botanical site, with diverse tree collections and gardens.

Stephens Lake Park is surrounded by several attractions that enhance its appeal. The park itself is a historical site, with markers indicating the location of Sherman's Dam. Nearby, visitors can explore the vibrant downtown area of Columbia, which offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.

The park's proximity to Boone Hospital complex makes it a convenient spot for visitors from out of town to relax. Additionally, the park's gardens and tree collections, including the Hindman Memorial Garden, are notable attractions for nature enthusiasts.

The Roots N Blues Festival, held annually at the park, is a major draw for music fans, showcasing local and national artists.