City-Brooks Community Park

Park Overview

Located near Louisiana State University (LSU), City-Brooks Community Park covers 154 acres in East Baton Rouge Parish. Managed by BREC (the local Recreation and Park Commission), this expansive green space is popular with people of all ages looking for outdoor activities or a quick escape from city life.

What really gives this park its character are the magnificent hundred-year-old oak trees that provide cool, dappled shade around the grounds. The park is split into two sections connected by a crosswalk, and there's something calming about wandering from one side to the other. It's consistently well-maintained - one of those places where you can actually sit on the grass without immediately checking what you might have sat on.

Historic Golf Course

At the heart of the park lies a little piece of sports history - the City-Brooks Golf Course. This nine-hole course dates back to 1926 and was designed by Tom Bendelow, earning it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Not too shabby for your local municipal course!

With several par 3 holes but no par 5s, it's perfect if you're working on your short game or just want a casual round that won't eat up your entire day. The course has seen some improvements in recent years, however it's still a work in progress. Regular players note that maintenance crews are gradually bringing it back to its former glory.

Tennis and Recreation

If tennis is more your speed, the Capital One Tennis Center offers both lighted and unlighted courts, a hitting wall for solo practice, and a pro shop where you can rent equipment or sign up for lessons. In a thoughtful touch, there's also an intriguing labyrinth near the courts - a quiet space designed for meditation or just catching your breath between sets.

Active types will appreciate the paved walking paths that meander across the park. These concrete trails are ideal for jogging, running, or biking, and they wind beneath those gorgeous old oaks, making even a quick workout feel like a nature retreat.

Family-Friendly Attractions

The park offers several options for family entertainment. There are two distinct playground areas - one for the little ones (ages 2-5) and another for older kids (ages 6-12). The equipment is well-designed, but you might want to note that some areas have sand surfaces (so maybe skip the fancy shoes).

On hot Louisiana days, the adjacent spray pad becomes the most popular spot in the park. And for families looking to mix fun with learning, the Knock Knock Children's Museum offers hands-on exhibits that keep young minds engaged.

The 50-acre lake provides a peaceful spot for permitted bank fishing. Just remember, motorized boats aren't allowed here - it's all about the quiet communion with nature and, hopefully, a few fish.

Dog Park

Dog owners will appreciate that The Raising Cane's Dog Park is a highlight, thoughtfully divided into areas for large and small dogs. Your four-legged friend will find water fountains at their level, and you'll appreciate the dog wash station - a real blessing after your pup has discovered every mud puddle in the vicinity.

There's plenty of room for dogs to run wild, with shade available in the middle area when the Louisiana sun gets too intense. The large dog section features sturdy steel benches, while the small dog area offers shaded seating for humans keeping an eye on their smaller companions.

Picnic Areas and Amenities

Scattered throughout the park are numerous picnic tables, with a larger dedicated area near the playground and dog park. These spots are excellent for family gatherings or just enjoying a quiet lunch with views of the park's beautiful landscape.

Restroom facilities are conveniently located throughout - near the picnic areas, playgrounds, at the golf clubhouse, and by the tennis courts. They're generally well-maintained with the basics you need (yes, including soap and toilet paper).

Art and Culture

Adding a dash of culture to your park experience, the Baton Rouge Gallery showcases contemporary art right on the grounds. It's open to the public free of charge, with exhibitions that change regularly and various cultural programs all year long.

The park also occasionally hosts community events like free yoga classes, blending recreation with cultural experiences in a way that makes the space feel truly alive.

Recent Improvements

City-Brooks Community Park has seen recent enhancements including improved drainage (goodbye, soggy paths!), upgraded pavilions, and expanded dog park facilities. Looking ahead, the University Lakes Project aims to improve the park's lakes and shoreline, creating more opportunities to enjoy nature in this Baton Rouge green space.