Doling Park

Doling Park is a historic 56-acre park located in north Springfield, Missouri. The park has a rich history dating back to 1883 when James Marshall Doling purchased the land, which included Giboney Cave. In the early 1900s, it was developed as a private amusement park, featuring attractions such as a roller skating rink, dance hall, bandstand, ball fields, penny arcade, and boat rentals on Doling Lake.

The Springfield-Greene County Park Board acquired Doling Park in 1929. While the amusement park was eventually dismantled, the skating rink continued to operate through the 1960s. Today, Doling Park serves as a multi-purpose recreational area for the community, blending its historical significance with modern amenities.

The park is home to several facilities, including the Doling Family Center, which offers fitness equipment and programs, and the Doling Indoor Aquatic Center, featuring a year-round swimming pool. The Doling Park Museum, housed in the former skating rink building, showcases memorabilia and exhibits detailing the park's colorful past.

Doling Park's natural features include Doling Lake, which is surrounded by a paved walking trail. The park also contains Giboney Cave, though public access is limited. Throughout the grounds, visitors can find open green spaces, picnic areas, and various recreational facilities, making it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

The park hosts community events and programs throughout the year, continuing its long-standing tradition as a gathering place for Springfield residents and visitors alike.