At one time, national leaders considered moving the country's capital from Washington to Columbus--a nod to Columbus-Belmont's important role in American history. The site was considered a strategic location for control of the Mississippi River, and the struggle to control the river led to the Battle of Belmont on November 7, 1861.

Confederate General Leonidas Polk established camps on both the Kentucky and Missouri sides of the river and named the more heavily fortified Columbus the "Gibraltar of the West." But a Union General destined for the White House, Ulysses S. Grant, outflanked the "Gibraltar" and forced evacuation of the Confederates in 1862.

Today, you can still see the massive chain and anchor used by the South to block passage of Union gunboats and the earthen trenches dug to protect over 19-thousand Confederate troops. The farmhouse that served as a Civil War hospital is now a museum that interprets many historic events at this site. The park has a beautiful campground and activity center.

Enjoy your next business meeting, family reunion, or social function at the beautiful Activity Center. This modern hill-top facility is carved out of the surrounding woodland, near the bluffs of the Mississippi River. The spacious Activity Room accommodates 200 guests, and the Conference Room seats 50 guests. For all your meeting needs, the center features banquet tables, audio-visual equipment, presentation materials, a dance floor, stage, and kitchen. Park administrative offices are also located in the Center.

Campers relax amid beautiful settings on the river cliff campground. The campground has 38 sites with utility hookups and grills. A central service building offers rest rooms, showers, and laundry facilities.

Open April-Oct. No advance reservations. Check-out by 2:00 PM, Central time. Pets are allowed if restrained.