Capen Park

About Capen Park

Rock climbers enjoy the bluffs and scenic overlooks at this park. The City of Columbia has a mulch site at this location where citizens can drop off yard waste and pick up free mulch at the City’s mulch site . This park has bridge connections to Grindstone Nature Area and the Hinkson Creek Trail.

Park amenities

Outdoors

For more than 60 years, the limestone crags of Capen Park have been a popular destination for mid-Missouri rock climbers and rappellers. Numerous routes, from slabby face climbs to overhanging roofs, provide a wide variety of experiences for local climbers. The bluff’s easy access, close proximity to town and scenic setting along Hinkson Creek make it a great resource for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Rock Climbing

 Rock climbing can be dangerous, and risk of injury or death exists. If you choose to use Capen Park for this purpose, you are voluntarily assuming all associated risks. Please be aware that Parks and Recreation does NOT install, maintain or inspect the fixed climbing anchors, hardware or any other aspect of the climbing routes. Check here for more information: 
Capen Park Rock Climbing opens PDF file

Trails

Park history

Year Property Acquired: 1978
Purchase Price: Donated: 10.75 acres $120,890: 20.84 acres
Acquired From: James and Lucy Capen
Funding Source: Public Improvement Fun/Bureau of Outdoor Recreation Dedication Date:

In 1978, 21.25 acres of Capen Park were acquired by the City from James and Lucy Capen. Six of the acres were donated by the couple, while the other 15.25 were bought at a price of $65,000. Monies for this purchase came from both the Public Improvement Fund and a grant from the Bureau of Outdoor Recreation. Eleven acres of this land had been leased to the City by the Capens since 1971. In 1983, an additional 10.34 acres were acquired, with 4.75 being donated and 5.59 being purchased, both from the Capens again. This second section of land is contiguous with the first portion acquired in 1978. The purchase price for the 5.59 acres was $55,890.

Capital improvement projects and council items