🌤 Weather at Finger Lakes State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 36–76 °F | 65–89 °F | 36–80 °F | 22–45 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Columbia U Of M, 2 mi away, elevation 770 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Built on a reclaimed strip mine where environmental restoration created a landscape of lakes, ridges, and valleys, Finger Lakes State Park is one of only two parks in Missouri with designated off-road vehicle trails — and it’s unlike any other state park in America. Over 70 miles of ORV trails, a professionally designed motocross track, swim-friendly lakes, and full-service camping make this a destination that appeals equally to adrenaline seekers and families looking for a weekend getaway.
Why Finger Lakes Stands Out
Finger Lakes’ origin story sets it apart: the narrow, finger-shaped lakes that give the park its name were created by surface coal mining operations in the mid-20th century. When the land was reclaimed, the sculpted terrain proved ideal for off-road riding, while the spring-fed lakes became excellent swimming and fishing holes. Today, the park celebrates this unexpected transformation with a recreation experience you won’t find in a typical state park.
Off-Road Vehicle Trails
The park features over 70 miles of designated ORV trails for ATVs, dirt bikes, and off-road motorcycles, plus a professionally designed motocross track and a separate youth track for younger riders. Terrain ranges from wide gravel paths to narrow, technical trails with natural obstacles — roots, water crossings, mud holes, and elevation changes that challenge riders of all skill levels.
Permit Required: All ORV riders must purchase a valid permit, available online for same-day use or at the park office. Helmets and proper safety gear are mandatory. The motocross track operates on a separate schedule — check with the park office for current hours.
Swimming & Water Activities
The park’s distinctive finger-shaped lakes offer excellent swimming from a sandy beach, open Memorial Day weekend through October 31 (8 AM – 8 PM). Kayaks and canoes are available for rent at the park office. Swimming is permitted in all bodies of water except near the boat ramp area. Note: no alcohol, glass containers, pets, or fires are permitted in the swimming beach area.
Camping
The campground operates year-round, offering basic sites as well as 30-amp and 50-amp electric hookup sites. All sites include picnic tables, fire rings, and grates, with access to drinking water, vault toilets, hot showers, and a dump station. Showers and running water are available April 1 through October 31; during winter months, potable water is available from the park office only. Reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance.
Visitor Essentials
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Location | Columbia, Missouri (Boone County) |
| Gate Closes | 10 PM (Apr–Oct) / 9 PM (Nov–Mar) |
| ORV Permit | Required — purchase online or at park office |
| Swimming Beach | Memorial Day – October 31, 8 AM – 8 PM |
| Kayak/Canoe Rental | Available at park office |
| Camping Max Stay | 15 days within any 30-day period |
| Discounts | Senior, military, and disability discounts available |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you ride ATVs at Finger Lakes State Park?
Yes — Finger Lakes is one of only two state parks in Missouri with designated ORV trails. The park offers over 70 miles of trails for ATVs, dirt bikes, and off-road motorcycles, plus a motocross track and youth track. A valid ORV permit is required.
Is it safe to swim in the lakes?
Swimming is permitted in the park’s lakes and is popular during the summer season. However, there are no lifeguards on duty — swimming is at your own risk. The designated swimming beach is open from Memorial Day weekend through October 31.
How were the Finger Lakes formed?
The park’s distinctive narrow, finger-shaped lakes were created by surface coal mining operations in the mid-20th century. When the mined land was reclaimed, the excavated valleys filled with spring water, creating the unique lake system that gives the park its name.
Explore More Missouri State Parks
Finger Lakes State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Missouri. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Missouri guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Finger Lakes SP — near Columbia — was created from reclaimed strip-mine land, transformed into a recreation area with man-made lakes. The park’s lakes, forest, and ATV trails support white-tailed deer, great blue herons, and beavers. Largemouth bass and bluegill fill the lakes.
Nearby Attractions
Columbia — adjacent — has the University of Missouri. Mark Twain Lake — 40 miles north. Katy Trail SP — 10 miles south.
More parks in Missouri: Jewell Cemetery State Historic Site and Rock Bridge Memorial State Park. See the full Missouri state parks guide.
⛺ Camping at Finger Lakes State Park: Campgrounds & Cabins
| Campsites | Basic and 30-amp/50-amp electric campsites, located in the northwestern area of the park. |
|---|---|
| Pets | Maximum two dogs per site recommended; must be supervised and kept on leashes no longer than 10 feet at all times. |
| Reservations | Reservable up to 12 months in advance via icampmo1.usedirect.com or toll-free 877-ICampMO (877-422-6766). |
| Special sites | Dump station and playground on-site; ATVs/motorcycles prohibited in campground (must stay on paved surfaces); walk-up registration possible if sites unreserved; camping limited to 15 days within any 30-consecutive-day period; special-use camping area also available (max 30 people, max 10 vehicles, reservations at 573-443-5315). |
| Season notes | On-season April-October (gate closes 10 p.m.; showerhouse open April 1-October 31); off-season November-March (gate closes 9 p.m.; water shut off, showerhouse closed). |
Camping questions about Finger Lakes State Park
Can you camp at Finger Lakes State Park?
Basic and 30-amp/50-amp electric campsites, located in the northwestern area of the park.
How do you reserve a campsite at Finger Lakes State Park?
Reservable up to 12 months in advance via icampmo1.usedirect.com or toll-free 877-ICampMO (877-422-6766).
Are pets allowed at the Finger Lakes State Park campground?
Maximum two dogs per site recommended; must be supervised and kept on leashes no longer than 10 feet at all times.
Source: mostateparks.com (verified July 2026). Details change seasonally — confirm when booking.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Finger Lakes State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Responsible pet owners and their pets are welcome in Missouri state parks and historic sites, with pets leashed and under control.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash not longer than 10 feet required at all times; portable fences and shock collars do not satisfy the requirement.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not allowed in public swimming areas or on beaches.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- The 'Cabins for Canines' program opens about 30% of lodging units to dogs (max two dogs per unit) at roughly 15 participating parks including Lake of the Ozarks, Bennett Spring, Echo Bluff and Roaring River; per-dog per-night fee varies by unit type.
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No day-use pet fee; Cabins for Canines charges a per-dog, per-night lodging fee (varies by unit).
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Maximum two dogs per campsite; pets not allowed inside any park building.
Are dogs allowed at Finger Lakes State Park?
Responsible pet owners and their pets are welcome in Missouri state parks and historic sites, with pets leashed and under control. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via mostateparks.com. More: Missouri state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Finger Lakes State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
