Twin Lakes Recreation Area

Twin Lakes Recreation Area is a 73-acre community park located in the southern part of Columbia, Missouri, at 2500 Chapel Hill Road. It offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, catering to dog owners, families, and nature enthusiasts alike. The park features an 18-acre fishing lake surrounded by a scenic trail that connects to Columbia's popular MKT Trail and County House Trail, providing ample opportunities for leisurely walks, jogging, or cycling.

One of the park's signature attractions is its three dedicated leash-free dog parks: Lakeside Dog Park, Paws Pond, and the Off-Season Dog Park. Lakeside Dog Park spans 3.9 acres and allows dogs of all sizes to run off-leash and even swim in the adjacent lake. Paws Pond, at 2.9 acres, is designed for smaller dogs under 18 inches tall and includes a fenced pond area for safe play. During the winter months, the 3.3-acre Off-Season Dog Park ensures safety by minimizing risks of dogs venturing onto icy lake surfaces. These facilities make Twin Lakes a standout destination for dog owners.

In addition to being pet-friendly, the park is equipped with amenities for various other activities. Families can enjoy the playground near the reservable Twin Lakes Shelter, which can accommodate up to 200 people and features picnic tables, ADA-accessible grills, and restrooms (seasonally available from April 15 to October 15). The sand volleyball court and picnic areas provide further recreational opportunities, while anglers can fish from the lake or dock. It’s worth noting that only non-motorized boats are allowed here.

The park’s convenient location and natural setting make it an excellent spot for relaxation and outdoor fun. However, some facilities such as restrooms and certain dog parks are only open seasonally, so visitors are advised to plan accordingly.