Doling Park: Springfield’s Best Mix of Nature & History 🌳🎠
Springfield is home to some incredible parks, but Doling Park stands out with its rich history, natural beauty, and unexpected surprises.
What started as a privately owned cave and picnic area in 1883 grew into one of Springfield’s most beloved amusement parks. Though the roller coasters and dance halls are gone, the park still holds onto its past, offering walking trails, a hidden lake, and even cave tours. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a scenic and family-friendly escape, Doling Park has something for everyone.
3 Must-See Spots in Doling Park
🏞 1. Giboney Cave – A Piece of Springfield’s Underground History
When James Marshall Doling purchased Giboney Cave and its surrounding 40 acres in 1883, he likely had no idea it would become a Springfield icon. This cave has been a popular spot for explorers, picnickers, and even amusement park guests for generations.
During the early 1900s, visitors could rent boats and float inside the cave, making it one of the most unique attractions in the Ozarks. While unsupervised cave access is no longer allowed, Springfield’s Outdoor Initiatives program offers occasional guided tours, definitely something to put on your Springfield bucket list!
🎠 2. Doling’s Amusement Park Days – A Forgotten Springfield Treasure
Before it became the quiet park we know today, Doling Park was home to an amusement park that operated from the late 1800s to the mid-20th century.
Private investors expanded the space to include:
🎡 A roller skating rink & dance hall
🎵 Live bandstand performances
🏀 Ball fields & penny arcade
🛶 Boat rentals on Doling Lake
🎢 Shoot-the-Chutes: A multi-story slide where people rode down in boats, splashing into the lake!
Though the Springfield Park Board purchased Doling Park in 1929 and removed the amusement rides, the skating rink remained open through the 1960s. Today, the park still honors its past with the Doling Museum, featuring photos and artifacts from its amusement park days. Visit the Doling History Museum inside the Doling Family Center for a closer look at Springfield’s hidden amusement park era!
🚶♂️ 3. Walking Trails, Doling Lake & Modern-Day Fun
Doling Park is still a great place for families and outdoor lovers. The Hidden Lake Trail is a short and scenic walk, perfect for families or a quiet solo escape. The lake itself was originally part of the amusement park, used for boating and swimming. Today, it’s a tucked-away gem that most visitors don’t expect to find in the middle of the city.
Beyond nature, the park also features:
Tennis courts & ball fields
Horseshoe pits & bocce courts
Playground equipment
A trailhead for The Link, Springfield’s urban trail system!
Walk the loop near the historical markers to see where some of the original amusement park attractions once stood!
🏊♀️ Bonus: Springfield Gymnastics & Aquatics Center – A Local Favorite
I didn’t get a chance to explore the Springfield Gymnastics & Aquatics Center on this visit, but I did some research, and it’s a fantastic resource for families! They offer a large variety of affordable classes for the local community, including swimming, gymnastics, and even ninja warrior-style training for kids.
📍 Have you explored Doling Park?
With its mix of history, hidden gems, and family-friendly activities, Doling Park is more than just another green space—it’s a place where Springfield’s past and present meet. Whether you’re uncovering old stories, enjoying a walk by the lake, or planning your next visit to the cave, this park has something for everyone.
And stay tuned, I’ll be diving deep into the Sequiota Park in a future post!
