Ultimate Guide to Louisiana Dog Parks
There is no creature on earth quite like man’s best friend. They are part of the family in every way, are there when we need them, and give all the love they can. These social creatures need friendship, and outside of being with their favorite owners, they need to get that escape at the dog park. These parks are great places to socialize your dog with others, get them a good workout, and spend time outside.
NOLA City Bark, New Orleans, LA
This 4.6-acre area lies in the beautiful scenery of City Park in New Orleans. Separate play areas accommodate large and small dogs that each have an array of toys and groomed landscapes that make for a fun play place. The event lawn is where the action goes down though the .25 walking trail is also fun and a dog wash station is also available after messy play times. Shade pavilions are great during the hot summer months along with the water fountains for both dogs as well as humans. Though this park is typically for registered members, temporary day passes can be purchased by out of town customers.
Pelican Bark Park, Mandeville, LA
At this leash-free mingling spot dogs of all breeds are welcome to roam around and meet others in a neutral environment. Lying at the rear of Pelican Park in Mandeville, this dog park is a favorite amongst north shore residents. It is open during the week but is really hopping on Saturday mornings. Kiddie pools for water loving animals, dog “shower” stations, and ground level-canine drinking fountains are just some of the attractions at this friendly dog park.
Raising Cane’s Dog Park, Baton Rouge, LA
This park is located only a short drive from Louisiana State University between campus and the Garden District in Greenwood Community Park in Baton Rouge. Having separate areas for small and large dogs, this nice park along has a big tree in the middle with a bench going all the way around making for ample seating. The pavilion and tall oak trees surrounding the park provide plenty of shade during the heat and the dog water stations keep the pups cool. The play area is surely large enough for all dogs to get plenty of playtime in with others.
Norman Swanner Dog Park, Thibodaux, LA
This park located way down in Thibodaux provides a recreational area for all the pups in the region. This clean park is open daily and includes doggie clean up as well as water stations. It is 32,000 square-feet in total with separate areas for large and small dogs. For humans, there are water fountains, benches, and a large pavilion to relax while the dogs get their energy out!
Pretty Acres Dog Park, Covington, LA
Open from dawn till dusk this quiet park is perfect for a relaxed adventure. It is smaller and more secluded than its sister park in Mandeville called Pelican Bark Park though has all the same amenities. Known to be very well maintained, this one acre park has separate areas for different sized dogs and has a beautiful quarter-mile walking trail that can be good for on or off leash training.
Lafreniere Bark Park, Metairie, LA
Having opened in January 2012, this park provides a sanctuary for dogs in Jefferson Parish. Sectioned off into two areas for dogs over and under 22 pounds, the park is open Tuesday through Sunday from dusk till dawn and on Mondays from 1 p.m. till dusk. The park is thoroughly strict regarding aggressive dogs at this family friendly park that also boasts a carousel, disc golf course, marsh island, health tracks and more.
Gretna Dog Park, Gretna, LA
On the west bank of the Mississippi River across from New Orleans lives the Gretna Dog Park. Using about two acres of the 90-acre Gretna City Park, this bark park is open from sun up to sun down and is located in the back of the park. The fenced area has dog agility obstacles, like a stairwell that goes up and down and a play tunnel that dogs can use to keep in shape! These obstacles are also great for on and off leash training. Ample benches and parking make this park convenient for owners.
Kiroli Park, West Monroe, LA
The dog park in this great West Monroe park is run by Raising Canes, like the one in Baton Rouge, though the parks are located in opposite sides of the state with different settings. First off, Kiroli Park is a completely smoke-free environment with a $50-$100 fine for those not willing to follow the rules. Situated under beautiful trees in the northwest portion of the park, the dog area is located adjacent to one of the ponds in the park. Sitting on a gentle incline of hills right by Tils Trail, the area is perfectly located for doggy play time as well as play time between owner and pet. The major features of the Raising Cane’s Dog Park include two gorgeous waterfall pond for water dogs to play in along with lots of bench space, two pavilions, and shade all around to chill while your dog gets their energy out.
Bark du Lac Dog Park, Lake Charles, LA
Coming to life in 2015, the Bark du Lac Dog Park was created to increase the quality of life for those in the Lake Charles area. Located in the downtown area that has consistently grown in recent years, this park is just another amenity added to this vibrant area thanks to the quality of Life Task Force. There is plenty of grass area for dogs to play in as well as separate areas for large and small dogs. The downtown location allows for plenty of shade and sitting are as well as a great way to meet other owners!
Shreveport Dog Park Alliance, Shreveport, LA
This four-acre park is located right off the river in Shreveport in the Stoner Boat Launch Facility. Easily accessible to shopping and dining in the area this park is perfect for an afternoon off. The public, city park is simply kept up by the city and has plenty of restrooms for visiting owners. Two separate areas for large and small dogs are available that are both fenced. The hopping riverfront area has recently added a skateboard park, disc golf course, and much more. Check out this new dog park and all the amenities around it!