Photo: Sudip Sinha
Photo: Donald Mayeur
Photo: Chelsie Boudreaux
University Lakes
★4.8(23 reviews)FreePark
🕑 1.5-3 hours depending on your pace and how long kids want to play at the playgrounds or feed the ducks👶 Best for all ages, from infants to teens. Babies enjoy stroller rides along the smooth trail, toddlers and preschoolers love the playgrounds and duck feeding, while older kids can bike, scooter, or rollerblade the full loop independently.🧡 Saved by 31 families
About
University Lakes offers a perfect 2.2-mile paved loop trail that's ideal for family bike rides, stroller walks, and outdoor adventures in Baton Rouge. Kids love feeding the ducks and geese along the scenic shoreline, while parents appreciate the well-maintained playgrounds and shaded picnic areas perfect for a family lunch break.
Highlights
- ✓2.2-mile smooth, paved trail perfect for bikes, scooters, and strollers
- ✓Duck and turtle feeding opportunities along the shoreline
- ✓Well-equipped playgrounds with swings and climbing structures
- ✓Shaded picnic areas with tables and grills for family gatherings
- ✓Beautiful live oak trees providing natural shade throughout the trail
Pro Tips
- 1.Bring bread or duck feed from home,the ducks congregate near the east side of the lake where kids can easily spot them
- 2.Visit early morning (before 9am) on weekends to avoid crowds of joggers and cyclists, making it safer for little ones learning to ride bikes
- 3.Park near the Stanford Avenue entrance for easiest access to playgrounds and picnic tables with grills
- 4.Pack a bike pump,the paved trail is excellent for teaching kids to ride, and you'll want to be prepared for flat tires
- 5.Look for turtles sunbathing on logs along the water's edge,bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing
Best Time to Visit
Early mornings (7-9am) or late afternoons (4-6pm) offer the most comfortable temperatures and best lighting. Weekday visits are less crowded than weekends. Spring and fall provide the most pleasant weather, avoiding Louisiana's intense summer heat.
What to Know
Parking and entry are completely free with multiple access points around the lake. Restrooms are available, and the flat, paved trail is stroller and wheelchair accessible throughout. Bring your own snacks and drinks as there are no food vendors on-site.
Seasonal Notes
Best in spring (March-May) and fall (October-November) when temperatures are mild. Summer visits are possible but plan for early morning or evening to avoid heat. The lake and trails remain open year-round, though Louisiana's occasional winter cold fronts may limit duck activity.
Follow University Lakes
Nearby Eats
Stop by Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux on Burbank Drive (5 minutes away) for kid-friendly Louisiana favorites and chicken tenders, or grab fresh sandwiches and salads at Zoës Kitchen on Corporate Boulevard for a post-walk picnic back at the lake.
More Activities Near University
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