Comite River Park

Natural Landscape

Tucked away from the hustle of city life, Comite River Park sprawls across 100 acres of preserved natural beauty along the Comite River and Cypress Bayou. The park's rolling hills, scenic trails, and peaceful atmosphere make it a notable location in Baton Rouge's outdoor offerings.

What makes this place special is how its diverse ecosystem provides a wonderful escape from urban life without having to travel far. Just a heads-up though - if you're planning an evening visit, remember that the dense tree canopy means darkness falls earlier on the wooded paths than in open areas, so time your adventure accordingly.

Trail System

The heart and soul of this park is undoubtedly the Comite River/Kerry Stamey Trails - a 5.5-mile network that winds through the property. These paths meander through thick woodlands, offering both a physical challenge and stunning views of the river and bayou landscapes.

Fair warning: these aren't your casual strolling paths. The trails fall into the moderate to advanced difficulty range, making them ideal for those with some hiking or mountain biking experience under their belt. With plenty of hills throughout the system, you'll definitely get your cardio workout for the day!

The trails are generally well-maintained, but navigation can get a bit tricky at certain points. Junction points 18 and 19 seem to be particular trouble spots for first-timers. If you're new to the park, taking a few minutes to study the trail map before setting out can save you some head-scratching later on.

If you're hitting the trails on two wheels, don't forget your helmet - it's not just recommended, it's required for your safety on these rugged paths.

Tour Historic Vermilionville

Vermilionville sits on a beautiful tree-covered 23-acre site on the banks of the Bayou Vermilion with 19 attractions, including seven restored original homes with costumed artisans that provide demonstrations on crafts performed by Native Americans and early settlers. Vermilionville provides its guests with a place for history, music, food, cultural exchange, historic architecture and much more.

$12.25

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Activities and Amenities

This conservation area strikes a nice balance between recreational opportunities and preserving the natural environment. Beyond the trails, you can enjoy peaceful bird watching sessions or try your luck fishing along the riverfront.

The park doesn't leave you hanging when it comes to basic needs. You can find a picnic pavilion that's fantastic for a post-hike lunch, a handy bicycle cleaning station to rinse off the mud, and clean restroom facilities that are well-maintained. These thoughtful touches make it possible to plan longer visits without discomfort.

During the warmer months, you might want to toss some bug spray in your backpack, especially if you plan to take frequent breaks on the trail. Interestingly, if you keep moving, the mosquitoes tend to be less bothersome.

Visitor Information

Four-legged friends are welcome to join your adventure, but must stay leashed throughout your visit. Remember to bring bags and clean up after your pet to help preserve the natural setting.

You can feel a bit more secure knowing that security cameras monitor the parking areas. Recent trail improvements include new stonework over previously muddy sections, which has really enhanced the experience.

No matter if you're looking for an adrenaline-pumping bike ride or just a peaceful afternoon in nature, this park offers both options. With various trail options available, you can tailor your visit to be as long or short as you like - just make sure to give yourself enough time to truly appreciate what this natural sanctuary has to offer.