Contributed by the Dept. of Parks, Recreation, & Tourism
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Where is Southeast Park located?
A . Southeast Park is approximately two miles east of I-77 in Columbia. Take Garners Ferry Road east past WalMart and turn left at the first flashing traffic signal at Hazelwood Drive (landmark/Kangaroo Gas Station). The park will be on the left hand side about a block away: 951 Hazelwood Drive.
Q. What are the park’s hours of operation?
A. Southeast Park, like other city parks, opens at 7 am and closes at 9 pm as approved by Columbia City Council.
Q. Are there any costs involved to use Southeast Park?
A. No, the park is free to area residents and visitors.
Q. Does Southeast Park have restrooms, a shelter, water, or electricity available?
A. Yes. There are restrooms, drinking fountains and electricity at the park. A picnic shelter with restrooms will be added in the future.
Q. Can I fish in the pond?
A. Fishing is allowed at Southeast Park. However, the pond has not been stocked for fish.
Q. Is swimming allowed?
A. No swimming or wading is allowed in the pond. Kayaks and canoes are permitted in the water. Kayakers and canoers must wear Coast Guard approved personal floatation devices (PFDs) at all times while on the water.
Q. May I rent a boat?
A. Boat rentals currently are not available. The City of Columbia Department of Parks and Recreation may provide rental boats and boating instruction in the future.
Q. Do I need a reservation to picnic?
A. No. Reservations are not required for use of the park. Individuals and families are welcome to bring a blanket, basket, and lawn chairs to picnic at the park.
Q. Can I bring a cooler?
A. Coolers are permitted.
Q. Is alcohol permissible at Southeast Park?
A. No. Patrons using any city park are prohibited from consuming alcohol or using the facility under the influence of alcohol or any illegal substances.
Q. Are there walking trails?
A. Yes. There are some paved and natural trails. Check the park kiosk for maps and distances.
Q. Is camping allowed?
A. Overnight camping access is limited to organized groups. Reservations will be available in the future pending the development of additional sites.
Q. May I walk my dog at the park?
A. Dogs are permitted on the park grounds but not on the tennis courts. Owners must use a leash for their pets and are asked to use the mutt mitts provided to cleanup after their furry friends.
Q. Are there baseball and soccer fields?
A. There are no organized sports fields on the site. There is an open playfield for general use.
Q. How do I reserve a court?
A. Reservations are not required for individual use. Courts are available on a first come, first served basis. Rules of courtesy limit play to one hour if others are waiting. Reservations are required for tournaments, special events, and league play. Reservation schedules will be posted in advance.
Q. How do I book a court for a tournament, special event, or league play?
A. Reservations should be made at least seven days in advance by calling the Columbia Tennis Center at (803) 733-8440. Staff can also provide information about private and group instruction. Rain checks will be given in case of inclement weather.
Q. Do the same rules apply to the soft courts?
A. Soft courts are available for use by the general public on a first come first served basis. The soft courts are available Sunday-Thursday: 7:30 am-noon and 5 pm-9 pm and Friday and Saturday: 7:30 am-noon. Soft courts may be closed due to unfavorable conditions. Check in with the Park Ranger on duty for instructions on the etiquette of the use of soft courts. Reservations can be made for league and team play by calling the Columbia Tennis Center at (803) 733-8440.
Q. Are the courts lighted?
A. The tennis courts are lighted. The lights go out promptly at closing (9 pm). The park is equipped with safety lighting.
Q. What are the future plans for Southeast Park?
A. Future plans will include a park center that will feature an environmental education center, pro shop, restrooms, and public meeting space, a picnic shelter with restrooms, additional walking trails, another open playfield, and 14 additional tennis courts.
Ordinances
The City of Columbia Department of Parks and Recreation reserves the right to:
+ Close the facility for any circumstances deemed necessary.
+ Restrict entry to the facility and to ask persons to leave the facility if any of the rules are not followed, or if unsafe behavior is observed.
Maintenance
Please report maintenance concerns to the Parks Division: (803) 545-3090.
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