Columbus-Belmont State Park is a 156-acre site that played a fascinating role in the War Between the States. This is the site of fortifications built by the Confederates and later occupied by Union forces. The 1861 Battle of Belmont, a raid fought to test the strength of this Confederate stronghold, marked the opening of the Union's Western Campaign. It was also Union General Ulysses S. Grant's first active engagement in the Civil War. Some of the artillery, which shelled the Union troops, and the six-ton anchor that held the great chain stretching across the river, are on display in the park.
Trails
There is a 2.5-mile self-guided hiking trail in the Park. Dramatic images of the Civil War come to mind when walking on the bluffs and massive earthen works that formed the Confederate trenches.
Museum
Students of all ages can learn about the area and the Civil War in the newly renovated museum. The park has a snack bar, gift shop, miniature golf, a picnic area and playground with shelters that are available for rental up to one year in advance.
The museum is open daily May through September and weekends in April and October (or by appointment). Admission is $2.00 for adults and $1.50 for children. Discounted rate for groups of 10 or more is $1.50 adults and $1.00 children. The gift shop, snack bar, and mini golf are open daily May through Labor Day and weekends in September.
Camping
Campers relax amid beautiful settings on the river cliff campground. The campground has 38 sites with utility hookups and grills. A central service building offers rest rooms, showers, and laundry facilities. Pets are allowed if restrained. Campground open March 14- November 18.
Things To Do
Boat ramps onto the Mississippi River available.
View of the Mississippi River
The entire family will enjoy playing a round on the park's miniature golf course. Open daily May - Labor Day and weekends through September.
RATES:
- $3.00 Ages 17 & older
- $2.00 Ages 16 & under
The park's facilities include picnic tables, grills and a playground, as well as four picnic shelters. Shelters available for rental up to one year in advance.
Groups appreciate the opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of urban life at this small, scenic park perched above the Mississippi River. The park’s contemporary meeting facility blends into the surrounding forestland with its two meeting rooms.
The largest of the meeting rooms is 2,400 square feet and can seat up to 180 people in a classroom style of seating. The smaller of the two rooms is 520 square feet and will comfortably seat 32 people in banquet style set-up.
Meetings, retreats, training sessions, holiday parties, weddings and special events are welcome at Columbus-Belmont. Ask our staff for a listing of local caterers. Please review the Meeting Space Matrix for exact capacities, dimensions and square footage of the meeting rooms.
Shelters are available for rental from April 1 to October 31. Activities building open year-round for rental.
Gift Shop
Browse our wonderful selection of Kentucky handcrafts in the gift shop. Open weekends Oct. through April and daily May through September.
Snack Bar
Sandwiches, soft drinks, ice cream, and snacks can be purchased at the park snack bar. Open daily May through Labor Day, weekends through September.
Make A Reservation
Gift Card
Shelter Rental
The four picnic shelters may be reserved for rental up to one year in advance.
Featured Event
CIVIL WAR DAYS AT COLUMBUS
10/10/2008 to 10/12/2008
The weekend will include battle reenactments, living history, and encampments. Friday is "education day." Schools, scouts, groups, and clubs are encouraged to schedule field trips. Battles will be held at 2 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday. There will also be a Civil War Ball on Saturday evening. Sunday morning services and Memorial Service at Columbus Cemetery. Sutlers and food vendors will be on site to serve the needs of the reenactors and visiting guests. Special entertainment daily. For more information call the park office at (270)677-2327 or email cindy.lynch@ky.gov.
More Information
Contact Information
Columbus-Belmont State Park
350 Park Road
Columbus, KY 42032-0009
Telephone: 270-677-2327
Park Manager: Cindy Lynch