Stephens Lake Park

One of the most popular parks in Columbia … and for good reason!

The park has 3 pretty good playgrounds, a sprayground open May- Sept, several three large reservable shelters, a few covered individual picnic tables, and a reservable community center. One of the playgrounds has full shade! The lakeside has a big Sandy beach, which is fun for kids.

There are large, beautiful trees, neat landscaping and wonderful topographical features like flat open fields for sports, giant hills for sledding, sit-on-the-ground amphitheater, and a (man made) lake.

When I’ve taken kids fishing, there are lots of hybrid bluegill that bite, though aren’t of any size to take. Fishing off the docks and walkways are fun. Tossing acorns or pebbles onto the frozen lake is a tradition we look forward to each winter. The island in the middle of the lake is pretty, and people have used the pavilion/shelter for weddings. There is a body ramp/entrance, but since the lake is pretty small, it doesn’t seem that fun. For instance, I’ve only seen a kayak and canoe once.

The bathroom facilities are pretty good and usually tidy.

The litter and graffiti is minimal to none, and overall, the atmosphere is clean.

Most of the areas have wheelchair accessibility, except for the large meadow area.

There are a few options for walking paths, some with slight inclines. It’s a good paced path for walking in all weather.

There’s not enough parking for major events hosted at the park, such as art shows or concerts, but there is enough parking for a typical day.

There is an interesting sign giving basic information about the indigenous people’s use of the land. They refer to the River valley as Happy Hollow and mention it was a camping area for Cherokee when traveling through hunting.