Cosmo Park

Park Overview

Located in the heart of Columbia, Missouri, Cosmo Park stretches across a whopping 533 acres, making it the city's largest municipal park. It's essentially Columbia's recreational heartbeat, where community life and outdoor activities converge. Year-round, the park buzzes with the energy of the Show-Me State Games and hosts tournaments for just about every sport you can think of - soccer, football, lacrosse, softball, baseball, golf, and skateboarding.

Here's a cool bit of history: the park was built on Columbia's former Municipal Airport, and if you look at aerial photos, you can still make out traces of the old runways and layout. Talk about a transformation!

Recreation Facilities

Whether you're five or fifty-five, Cosmo Park offers a variety of activities. Families often visit the Steinberg Playground, Columbia's largest playground. Kids absolutely love the dinosaur-themed area where they can channel their inner paleontologist in a fossil dig sandbox, uncovering dinosaur bones. For the tiny tots, there's a separate play area keeping the little ones safe while they have their adventures.

Sports enthusiasts will find plenty of options. The park features 19 soccer fields, 6 football fields, 8 lighted tennis courts, and the L.A. Nickell Golf Course with 18 holes.

Looking for something a bit different? Try out the remote control car track, roll around the hockey rink, test your skills at the bike pump track (a recent addition that's been a huge hit with kids and cyclists), or enjoy a game of bocce ball.

Nature Areas and Trails

For nature enthusiasts, Cosmo offers several scenic trails. Take your pick from the Bear Creek Trail, the Cosmo Nature Trail, or tackle the more challenging Rhett's Run Mountain Bike Trail. For something more relaxed, there's a 1.25-mile paved loop circling the park - great for a casual stroll, a morning jog, or a leisurely bike ride.

Dog owners will appreciate the 70-acre Bear Creek Nature Area where your four-legged friends can roam leash-free (though do check on specific rules). And if fishing is your thing, drop a line in Nickell Lake or Antimi Lake, two popular spots for local anglers.

Amenities and Facilities

Planning a gathering? The park offers seven reservable shelters and two first-come, first-served options. These come equipped with picnic tables and barbecue grills, and some even have electrical outlets. Many shelters are conveniently located near playgrounds, making them ideal spots for birthday parties or family reunions.

There are seven restroom areas within the park, with most open seasonally from spring through mid-October. During winter months, portable toilets fill the gap, and some facilities remain accessible year-round.

Skateboarders and inline skaters will feel right at home at the expansive Columbia Skate Park, which covers an impressive 28,000 square feet. Whether you're attending a tournament, taking a peaceful walk, or spending a day with family, Cosmo Park provides space for a wide range of outdoor activities.