Owens Field Park | Columbia SC

Owens Field Park – In Detail

Overview

Owens Field Park is one of Columbia, South Carolina’s most diverse and activity-rich public parks, offering a blend of athletic facilities, community spaces, green trails, and unique attractions. Situated near the Rosewood neighborhood and adjacent to the Columbia Skate Park and Owens Field Airport, the park has evolved into a vibrant recreational hub for locals, athletes, families, and outdoor enthusiasts.

It is especially known for its multi-use sports fields, disc golf course, skateboarding facilities, and public art installations, making it one of the most dynamic and youth-oriented green spaces in the city.

Location and Layout

Address: 1351 Jim Hamilton Blvd, Columbia, SC 29205

Size: Approximately 50 acres

Located near Jim Hamilton–L.B. Owens Airport, the park forms part of the larger Owens Field complex, which includes aviation, recreational, and community features.

The landscape is a mix of:

Open fields

Shaded wooded edges

Paved and unpaved trails

Purpose-built recreational zones

Main Features

Athletic and Sports Facilities

Multi-purpose Sports Fields:

Multiple grass fields are used for soccer, rugby, ultimate frisbee, and youth athletic leagues.

Host to both informal games and organized team events.

Running Track:

A paved track-style loop circles one section of the park, popular for walking, jogging, and warmups.

Baseball Field:

Home to local teams and casual weekend games, with bleacher seating and dugouts.

Skate Park (Columbia Skate Park)

One of Columbia’s only dedicated skateboarding facilities.

Features include:

Ramps, bowls, grind rails, quarter pipes, and ledges.

Open to skateboarders, BMX riders, and inline skaters.

Graffiti art and murals contribute to the park’s energetic, urban vibe.

Free to use and unsupervised, but helmets are strongly recommended.

Disc Golf Course

18-hole disc golf course winding through forested areas and open fields.

Offers a mix of short technical holes and longer drives.

Well-maintained by local disc golf groups and appreciated for its quiet, shaded setting.

Playground and Picnic Area

A playground with swings, slides, and climbing structures caters to young children.

Several picnic tables and grill stations are available for family outings.

Shaded areas provide comfort during hot weather.

Public Art and Community Space

Includes multiple sculptures, painted installations, and murals throughout the park.

Highlights the city’s support for accessible outdoor art.

Community-focused spaces sometimes host local events, fitness classes, or art showcases.

Trail System and Nature

A network of paved and natural-surface walking trails loops around the fields and wooded sections.

Some paths connect to nearby residential neighborhoods.

Great for walking dogs, stroller walks, or relaxed nature exploration.

Bordering forest edges and creeks support birds, small mammals, and native flora.

Aviation Proximity and Atmosphere

Located directly next to Jim Hamilton–L.B. Owens Airport, small planes often fly low overhead.

This adds a unique sensory element, especially for children or aviation enthusiasts.

Airplane noise is noticeable but typically not disruptive.

Events and Community Use

Owens Field Park is regularly used for:

Youth soccer and rugby tournaments

Community disc golf leagues

Skate jams and BMX meetups

Seasonal festivals, food truck rallies, and art pop-ups

Fitness groups like bootcamps or yoga classes

It is one of Columbia’s most active public spaces-especially on weekends and late afternoons.

Visitor Tips

Parking: Multiple lots, with the largest near the skate park and playground. Parking is free.

Restrooms: Available near the skate park and ball fields.

Dog-friendly: Leashes required, with pet waste stations in most areas.

Bring your own sports equipment (soccer balls, disc golf discs, skateboards), as there are no rentals.

The disc golf course can get muddy after rain-wear appropriate footwear.

Accessibility

Paved paths and parking make the park accessible to visitors with mobility needs.

Playground and picnic areas include wheelchair-accessible options.

Skate park and disc golf course are open-access with no entry fees.

Community and Atmosphere

Owens Field Park serves as a cross-generational gathering space, reflecting Columbia’s blend of energy and community pride. Whether you’re a skateboarder, parent, athlete, or artist, the park offers something meaningful and authentic.

The diversity of uses and users-paired with a free, open-access approach-makes Owens Field Park not just a recreational facility, but a living expression of Columbia’s inclusive, creative spirit.