Columbus-Belmont State Park

Columbus-Belmont State Park is a 160-acre site that played a fascinating role in the War Between the States. This is the site of a fortification build by the Confederates and later occupied by Union forces. The 1861 Battle of Belmont, fought to overtake the 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. 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. Visitors will learn about the Civil War in the Museum through a video, artifacts, and interpretation. There is a Snack Bar, Gift Shop, Miniature Golf, and a picnic area with playgrounds and Shelters. A Conference Center available for most any function. This modern hilltop facility is carved out of the surrounding woodland, near the bluffs of the Mississippi River. The 38-site campground is located high on the bluffs with a beautiful view of the River. There is a rest room/bath house, laundry, shelter, and a playground. The campsites have a picnic table and a fire ring/grill with water and electric to each site and a centrally located dump station. Ten of these sites have sewer hookup. All are spacious and shady for a wonderful campground experience.