Finger Lakes State Park Overview
Finger Lakes State Park is a beautiful park located in Columbia, Missouri. The park is named after the series of small lakes that are shaped like fingers, which were created by the former strip mining operations in the area. The park is spread over 1,128 acres and offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages.
One of the main attractions of Finger Lakes State Park is the off-road vehicle (ORV) trails. The park has over 70 miles of trails that are open to ORVs, dirt bikes, and ATVs. The trails are designed for riders of all skill levels, from beginners to experts. Visitors can rent ORVs from the park or bring their own. The park also offers a training course for beginners to learn how to ride safely.
Apart from ORV trails, Finger Lakes State Park also has several hiking and biking trails. The trails wind through the park’s forests and offer stunning views of the lakes. Visitors can also go fishing in the lakes, which are stocked with bass, catfish, and sunfish. The park has a boat ramp and a fishing dock for visitors to use.
For those interested in history, Finger Lakes State Park has a fascinating past. The park was once a strip mine that operated from the 1920s to the 1970s. The park’s visitor center has exhibits that showcase the history of the area and the mining operations. Visitors can learn about the mining process, the equipment used, and the impact it had on the environment.
In addition to the recreational activities and history, Finger Lakes State Park also has several picnic areas and a campground. The campground has 19 basic campsites and 4 electric campsites. The park also has a group campsite that can accommodate up to 50 people.
Overall, Finger Lakes State Park is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs. The park’s ORV trails, hiking and biking trails, fishing, and camping facilities offer something for everyone. Visitors can also learn about the park’s fascinating past and the impact of mining on the environment.
Visitor’s Experience
Finger Lakes State Park in Missouri offers a unique outdoor experience for visitors of all ages. Families can enjoy a day of swimming, fishing, and picnicking at the park’s lake, while couples can take a romantic stroll through the park’s scenic trails. Friends can gather for a game of frisbee or volleyball on the park’s spacious fields, and solo visitors can find peace and solitude in the park’s serene natural surroundings.
For families, Finger Lakes State Park is a great destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. The park’s lake offers a variety of water activities, including swimming, fishing, and boating. The park also has several picnic areas with tables and grills, making it easy for families to enjoy a meal together in the great outdoors. Children will love the park’s playgrounds and open fields, where they can run and play to their heart’s content.
Couples looking for a romantic escape will find plenty to love at Finger Lakes State Park. The park’s trails offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, and the quiet, peaceful atmosphere is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Couples can also pack a picnic and enjoy a romantic lunch or dinner in one of the park’s secluded picnic areas.
Friends looking for a fun day out will find plenty of activities to keep them entertained at Finger Lakes State Park. The park’s spacious fields are perfect for a game of frisbee or volleyball, and the lake offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. The park also has several hiking and biking trails, making it easy for friends to explore the park’s natural beauty together.
Solo visitors looking for a peaceful retreat will find Finger Lakes State Park to be the perfect destination. The park’s quiet, natural surroundings offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Visitors can take a leisurely hike through the park’s trails, or simply sit and enjoy the beauty of the park’s lake and surrounding countryside.
The best times of year to visit Finger Lakes State Park are in the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the park’s natural beauty is at its peak. In the spring, visitors can enjoy the park’s wildflowers and blooming trees, while in the fall, the park’s foliage is ablaze with vibrant colors. Summer is also a popular time to visit, as visitors can enjoy swimming and other water activities in the park’s lake.
Overall, Finger Lakes State Park offers a unique outdoor experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly day trip, a romantic escape, a fun day out with friends, or a peaceful retreat, Finger Lakes State Park has something for everyone.