Emily Douglas Park

Park Location and Setting

Emily Douglas Park is a neighborhood park located in the heart of Columbia, South Carolina. Situated in the historic Shandon neighborhood, this quaint and cozy park offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages.

The park features a bowl-shaped layout, with many pine trees providing ample shade throughout the area. This green space provides a peaceful retreat for local residents and visitors alike, offering a mix of natural beauty and recreational facilities. Being well-hidden yet very close to Five Points, it makes for a quiet escape within the city.

Play Areas

Emily Douglas Park includes separate play areas primarily catering to younger children. The main play space is designed for children aged 2-5 years, featuring age-appropriate equipment such as small slides, a bridge, and various climbing structures.

The park also includes swings and climbing bars, though some visitors note that the play equipment is somewhat limited for older children aged 8-10. The playground equipment includes monkey bars and a balance swing that provide entertainment options for toddlers and younger school-aged children.

Summer Activities

During the summer months, the park offers a spray pool area for children to cool off. The spray pool operates on weekdays from 10 am to 12 pm and again from 4 pm to 6 pm, providing a refreshing respite from the South Carolina heat.

Pet-Friendly Spaces

One of the park's highlights is the fenced dog area located in the back corner. This double-fenced section provides a safe space for dogs to exercise off-leash, with poop bags available for pet owners. While the terrain is primarily dirt and can get muddy after rain, the area offers interesting topography that allows dogs to run up and down hills.

While dogs are allowed throughout the entire park, they must be kept on a leash outside the designated dog area. Many visitors specifically come to Emily Douglas Park for its dog-friendly atmosphere and shaded dog run.

Community Facilities

The park features a neighborhood center that operates Monday through Friday from 2 pm to 6 pm. This center offers after-school care for children aged 11 to 13, providing a safe and supervised environment for local youth.

Amenities and Layout

Emily Douglas Park includes an amphitheater that functions as both a performance space and a casual seating area where visitors often enjoy picnics. The park offers plenty of open grassy areas perfect for relaxation, though visitors should note there are limited benches throughout the grounds.

The park does not have restroom facilities or designated parking areas, with most visitors parking on nearby streets. The abundant shade from mature trees makes it an ideal spot for escaping the summer heat, though some visitors mention issues with insects during certain seasons.

Emily Douglas Park's combination of natural setting, recreational facilities, and proximity to downtown Columbia makes it a beloved neighborhood gem, particularly for those seeking a quiet, shaded retreat for themselves or their pets.