In the midst of our busy lives, it is easy to overlook opportunities just around the corner. Earlewood Park is an amazing resource right in our backyard. The city of Columbia describes our park as "an urban forest that covers sixty-six acres of rolling hills and valleys and mature groves of trees. Noted for its many varieties of wild flowers it is (one of) the largest and most natural park in Columbia."
The City of Columbia Parks and Recreation Department does a magnificent job maintaining grass and landscaping as well as keeping facilities clean and safe. In recent years a good deal of undergrowth has been cleared and additional safety lighting has been installed on the walking track and other high use areas. The walking track, just off S. Main Street, is .2 miles with large shade trees, open grass and a view of the Smith Branch Creek. The packed sand trail is great for both walkers and runners.
An increased interest in the sport of disc golf has brought a large number of players to Earlewood. Our park has one of the two 18 hole courses in the city. Many back and side areas of the park, once a safety concern, are now regularly traveled by golfers. Walkers in these areas should be aware to watch out for flying discs.
Our park is also home to: an amphitheater, basketball court, two tennis courts, children's playground and sprinkler area, 3 baseball fields, several large picnic shelters, and a community center. The community center houses many different activities and can be rented for private use by contacting the City of Columbia Parks and Recreation office. Keep watch in the next year, renovations will begin on the community center with the addition of outside restrooms.
The next time your kids are bored or you're itching for a change of scenery take a walk down the block and rediscover Earlewood Park.