Finger Lakes State Park
4.5(1.2K)google
4.0(5)yelp
Outdoor
Overview
Finger Lakes State Park is a public recreation area consisting of 1,138 acres (461 ha) in Boone County near the city of Columbia, Missouri, and adjacent to the Rocky Fork Lakes Conservation Area. The state park is unusual in that the site was reclaimed after having been strip mined for coal. It is one of two state parks in Missouri used for off-road vehicles.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration3-6 hours
Best TimeSpring and autumn (April to May, September to October) are optimal for comfortable outdoor active conditions. As a unique state park reclaimed from an old strip coal mine, it is a premier regional destination for off-road ATV riding. Arrive between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM for the crispest track conditions or a calm canoe paddle across the narrow finger-like lake chains.
Getting ThereLocated exactly 10 miles north of Columbia. Driving is essential as there is no municipal transit. Travel north on US-63 N highway, take the dedicated exit for Peabody Road, turn north following the state park brown directional guideposts, and pull straight into the expansive off-road loading and camping parking fields.
Travel Tips
- Repurposed from an old coal mine, all private off-highway vehicles (OHV/ATV) must pass technical inspections and display a mandatory high-visibility Missouri state-issued orange safety flag.
- The steep OHV singletracks feature deep loose slag and sand pits that require full-face DOT-approved safety helmets worn continuously; solo runs by inexperienced novices are highly discouraged.
- The historic narrow water trails harbor deep, cold water pits; motorized vehicles are barred from crossing designated kayak sectors, and rental crafts must clear the water completely by 5:00 PM.
Reviews
Positive
- The ribbon-like lake fingers repurposed from an old coal mine deliver a unique visual landscape, offering a raw playground for ATV riders and kayakers.
- The designated off-road ORV trails are sharply mapped, and boat launch ramps and the lakeside campground shower facilities are kept highly tidy.
- Park operators enforce highly rigorous safety rules regarding helmet use and trail speeds, ensuring solid security for high-risk motorsports.
- Park admission costs zero dollars, with only minor fees for ORV trail permits or camping, maximizing value for high-octane beach swimming and off-roading.
Heads up
- As one of Missouri's few open ATV parks, heavy engine noise pollution plagues the area, disturbing those seeking quiet forest serenity.
- The public swim beach waters can look a bit murky and muddy during peak summer usage, and the lawn lacks continuous shade gazebos or rest benches.
- During long holiday weekends, the campgrounds and off-road trails face severe congestion, stalling lines at rental counters and boat launches.
- The entire park aligns heavily toward motorized recreation, lacking manicured botanical layouts or historic museum exhibits for leisure travelers.