Colorful flowers, meandering pathways, and a canopy of trees overhead, it is refreshing to spend time in the great outdoors! You can definitely escape the pressures of the daily grind or the bustling sounds of traffic by visiting one of the parks in Southwest Louisiana and soaking in the sights and sounds of nature.
If you are traveling with young kids, check out some of the parks with full playgrounds for year-round play and splashpads in the summer months for fun in the sun. For summertime splash time, be sure to check out SPAR Waterpark.
- Millennium Park Adventures abound for kids wanting to explore the giant tree house, swings, monkey bars, a spider web, rock climbing wall, tunnels, a Tot Lot, splash pad and more! Conveniently located near the lake and downtown Lake Charles, this is the perfect spot to unwind and let the kids have fun.
- Prien Lake Park Overlooking the bay on the shores of Prien Lake, this park features walking trails, a playground and water park, canoe and boat launch, as well as numerous picnic areas, amphitheater and a little treat for the parents on the go - FREE Wi-Fi!
- Drew Park Now, this is one of the more peaceful recreational parks. My favorite part of this park are the oak trees that follow along the walking trail. Pull out a book, relax along the trail or take a quiet stroll while the kids play!
- Lock Park This cute little park has a playground and a covered pavilion area - perfect for picnics.
- Sam Houston State Park The go-to location for bird watching and camping, featuring 1,087 acres of lakes, trees, vistas, rivers and streams. Anytime I think “the great outdoors,” this park comes to mind. (Sam Houston is temporarily closed, but it will open soon!)
- Lakefront Promenade at Bord du Lac Park This winding path caresses the lake front, providing an ideal place for exercise while getting the best view in town. Ducks love it here too, so bring some bread!
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- Veterans Memorial Park This park displays the five branches of the Armed Forces, paying homage to the men and women who have served since WWI.
- Bark du Lac Dog Park Pups need a place to play too! So, check out Bark du Lac located near the heart of downtown Lake Charles.
- Tuten Park This little park is 20 acres of natural woods, fun for all ages. It’s the perfect place for the little ones to explore the outdoors. Make sure to take a peek at the butterfly garden.(Temporarily closed, but it will open soon!)
- White Oak Park One word to describe this park is “scenic.” It sits on the west fork of the Calcasieu River and features access to the best fresh water spring in Southwest Louisiana.
- Adventure Cove Park Built entirely by volunteers, this park is barrier free and provides kids of all ages with the best space to play together.
- Riverside Park Probably one of the best views of the historic Calcasieu River Bridge. Bring a fishing pole and float out on your boat for a slice of serenity.
- The Grove at Heritage Square Located in Sulphur, this park offers a relaxing escape within a busy, urban environment. Surrounded by a pecan grove you’ll enjoy the walking paths and fountain feature. The Grove is also the home to Sulphur’s Movies Under the Stars and a the regional library’s Little Free Library – a community book share.
- Maplewood Commons Maplewood Commons near Center Circle in Maplewood is a quiet place to play a round of tennis, enjoy the sounds of waterfalls, play on a playground or have a shaded picnic lunch in Sulphur!
- McMurry Park For walking trails, basketball courts, tennis, and playground equipment, be sure to check out McMurry Park - which is also the home to many baseball and softball tournaments each summer.
In addition to the parks above, check out other parks in the area or attractions found along the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road for more ideas on how to explore the great outdoors in Southwest Louisiana!
