Thomas E "Country" Atkins Jr. Memorial Park

Thomas E. Atkins Jr. Memorial Park, also known as Atkins Park, spans 81.4 acres in Columbia, Missouri. Situated adjacent to the Boone County Fairgrounds, it is a cooperative project between the City of Columbia and Boone County, both of which own the park jointly. The park is named to honor Thomas E. "Country" Atkins Jr., a local figure, and its creation was driven by a vision to promote youth recreation in the area. The land for the park was donated by Thomas Atkins III in 2002, and the park opened after a dedication ceremony in 2009.

Atkins Park is perhaps best known for its state-of-the-art five-field, lighted baseball complex. These fields are irrigated and equipped with batting cages. The park also houses a centrally located concession stand, which is open during league and tournament events. Surrounding the sports facilities are picnic areas, including a non-reservable shelter for casual outings. Additionally, families can enjoy accessible amenities such as restrooms and an ADA-compliant picnic table.

The park’s development faced challenges, including funding constraints and logistical issues, but collaborations between local government bodies and grants brought it to fruition. Today, it not only serves as a sports venue but also a community space for leisurely activities like picnicking and fishing at the on-site pond.

With its combination of recreational facilities and serene open spaces, Thomas E. Atkins Jr. Memorial Park offers a versatile outdoor experience for visitors of all ages.