LSU Lakes Baton Rouge
A serene urban oasis in Baton Rouge, the LSU Lakes offer scenic trails, abundant wildlife, and recreational opportunities for all.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tranquil atmosphere, fewer people
LSU Lakes Baton Rouge
Best Time
Tranquil atmosphere, fewer people
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene urban oasis in Baton Rouge, the LSU Lakes offer scenic trails, abundant wildlife, and recreational opportunities for all.
"This is a gem, a beautiful and special place that is peaceful and removed from the busy-ness of the city."
👟 Comfortable Footwear is a Must
The 5-mile loop is perfect for a walk or run, so wear your best athletic shoes! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, bring plenty of water for your outdoor activities. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Lakeside Trails
Circumference of the lakes
Enjoy a 5-mile loop with clean paths, offering stunning views of the water, wildlife, and surrounding homes.
Wildlife Watching
Various points around the lakes
Spot American white pelicans, turtles, and other diverse bird species in this vibrant natural habitat.
Sunset Kayaking Adventures
Lakeshore Drive
Experience breathtaking sunsets from the water with affordable kayak rentals available.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit
Embrace the Outdoors Responsibly
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear is a Must
The 5-mile loop is perfect for a walk or run, so wear your best athletic shoes! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, bring plenty of water for your outdoor activities. :droplet:
🌅 Golden Hour Photography
Late afternoons offer stunning light for capturing the beauty of the lakes. :camerawithflash:
🛶 Affordable Kayak Rentals
Enjoy sunset kayaking for around $10 per person! :kayak:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear is a Must
The 5-mile loop is perfect for a walk or run, so wear your best athletic shoes! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, bring plenty of water for your outdoor activities. :droplet:
🌅 Golden Hour Photography
Late afternoons offer stunning light for capturing the beauty of the lakes. :camerawithflash:
🛶 Affordable Kayak Rentals
Enjoy sunset kayaking for around $10 per person! :kayak:
⚠️ Be Aware of Traffic
Cyclists and cars share the road; exercise caution and be attentive. :warning:
🌙 Night Access Confusion
Hours can be unclear; police have enforced closures after 11:30 PM. :police_car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the LSU Lakes for their well-maintained trails, peaceful atmosphere, and abundant wildlife, calling it a 'gem' and a 'beautiful and special place.' The scenic 5-mile loop is ideal for walks and runs. However, some users report confusion and frustration regarding operating hours, with police enforcing closures later than advertised, impacting the perceived 24-hour access.
"They are dredging and putting millions into university lakes to make it a center piece in btr. It was only 4 ft deep... they are making it real deep. With new trails and new park spaces.... Full redo. I could walk across the lake bed yesterday. So much fun."
Doug Lubey
"This is a fantastically-maintained lake with clean, easy to follow paths and it's very quiet most of the way around. It's about 5 miles all the way around, so it's a fantastic walk and it's wonderful to have a beautiful lake full of turtles and even a Wild Bird Refuge in Baton Rouge. This is a gem, a beautiful and special place that is peaceful and removed from the busy-ness of the city."
Tiffany Gilly-Forrer
"While not perfect the ride around the lake can be quite charming when traffic is light and the weather is good. Most days there are a fair number of walkers and runners. Weekends adds a number of bicyclists to the mix along with drivers who are all too often in a hurry to be elsewhere. Caution and attention are required at this of high use.
Still, let us not let the perfect be the enemy of the good, yes? There are times, like the evening I wrote this review, when a ride around the Lakes is a rare and marvelous thing. You should try it for yourself."
Mark E Martin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The LSU Lakes are conveniently located adjacent to the LSU campus in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. They are easily accessible by car, with several entry points along Lakeshore Drive. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving or ride-sharing services are often the most practical ways to reach the lakes.
Parking is generally available along Lakeshore Drive and in designated areas near the lakes. However, during peak times, especially on weekends, parking can become scarce. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.
Yes, the LSU Lakes are very close to the LSU campus. Many students and visitors walk or bike to the lakes directly from campus, enjoying the proximity and scenic route.
The primary access is via Lakeshore Drive, which encircles the main lake. There are multiple points where you can enter the walking paths and access different areas of the lakes.
The most popular way to explore is by walking or cycling the approximately 5-mile loop around the main lake. The paths are well-maintained and offer continuous views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the LSU Lakes is free and open to the public. You do not need to purchase any tickets to enjoy the walking paths, scenery, or wildlife.
While often listed as open 24 hours, there have been reports of police enforcing closures around 11:30 PM. It's best to visit during daylight hours to avoid any confusion or unexpected closures.
Kayaking rentals are available and are quite affordable, with one reviewer mentioning a cost of around $10 per person.
The Wild Bird Refuge within the LSU Lakes is also free to access, allowing visitors to observe local and migratory bird species without charge.
While not explicitly stated in the provided information, it's generally recommended to check local regulations for pet policies in public parks. Leashed pets are often permitted, but it's always best to confirm.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, running, cycling, bird watching, and picnicking. Kayaking is also a popular activity, especially during sunset.
During daylight hours, it is generally considered safe to walk alone, especially with other people around. However, some advise caution, particularly for solo female visitors, and recommend avoiding it at night.
The lakes are home to various wildlife, including turtles, and are a popular spot for migratory birds like the American white pelican. You might also spot foxes.
The loop around the main lake is approximately 5 miles, which can take about 1.5 to 2 hours to walk at a moderate pace.
Information on restroom availability is not explicitly provided, but public parks often have facilities. It's advisable to check local park information or be prepared.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire perimeter offers beautiful views, but the areas with clear water, abundant wildlife, and the reflections of the surrounding trees and homes are particularly picturesque. Sunset provides stunning golden hour light.
Early mornings and late afternoons, especially during the 'golden hour' before sunset, offer the most beautiful lighting for photography.
Drone usage in public parks and near university campuses can be restricted. It's essential to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
While there aren't specific 'landmarks' in the traditional sense, the natural beauty of the lakes, the wildlife, and the impressive homes along the shore provide ample photographic opportunities.
Popular shots include serene lake views, wildlife encounters (especially pelicans), sunset kayaking, and scenic walking paths.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers and Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Revitalization of LSU Lakes
These improvements are turning the lakes into a more robust ecosystem and a more enjoyable public space. The ongoing development suggests a commitment to preserving and enhancing this natural asset for the community and visitors alike.
Wildlife Encounters at the Lakes
Beyond the pelicans, the lakes are teeming with turtles, and a dedicated Wild Bird Refuge attracts numerous other avian species. The peaceful environment, removed from the city's hustle, allows for intimate wildlife observation. Keep an eye out, as even foxes have been spotted in the area.
Recreational Activities and Community Hub
For those seeking a different perspective, kayaking is a popular choice, especially during the magical sunset hours, with affordable rental options available. The lakes are not just a place for exercise but also a cherished spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of Baton Rouge.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit