St. Roch Park

A Touch of New Orleans History

Tucked into the heart of the St. Roch neighborhood in New Orleans, you'll come across St. Roch Park, sometimes called St. Roch Playground or Harold Sampson Jr. St. Roch Playground. This green space sits within Council District D, providing locals a place to relax amid the vibrant city.

Rising from the Storm

Like much of New Orleans, this park has a Katrina story. After the hurricane, the space was temporarily transformed into a parking lot for FEMA trailers - a stark reminder of those challenging times. But in early 2013, then-Mayor Mitch Landrieu directed nearly $2 million toward bringing the park back to life.

On a hopeful summer day - July 1, 2013 - scissors sliced through ribbon, and St. Roch Park officially welcomed the community back to its grounds.

The Heart of the Neighborhood

Today, St. Roch Park pulses as a community hub where neighbors of all ages come together. It's one of those places where you can simply exist in the moment - whether that means watching clouds drift by or joining an impromptu game with friendly locals.

The park balances energy and tranquility. It's a place where conversations happen naturally and where a solo visit often includes at least a few neighborly nods.

What You'll Find Here

Sports enthusiasts gravitate toward the baseball fields and basketball courts, where friendly competition is always in season. Little ones have their own domain in the playground area, ideal for climbing, sliding, and imagination-fueled adventures.

When hunger strikes, picnic tables offer a spot to enjoy a po'boy or homemade lunch. The park's open grassy areas invite everything from frisbee tosses to meditation sessions, or simply letting your four-legged friend stretch their legs.

A walking trail weaves through the grounds, ideal for morning jogs or evening strolls. And yes, there are restroom facilities available - though like many public parks, cleanliness can be hit or miss.

Bring Your Furry Friends

Dog owners, take note: St. Roch Park welcomes your pets. The open fields provide plenty of space for your dog to run and play, making this a popular spot for the neighborhood's canine community.

Behind the Scenes

The New Orleans Recreation Development Commission (NORDC) keeps St. Roch Park running smoothly, just as they do with many green spaces throughout the city. Their mission centers on creating meaningful recreational experiences for all New Orleanians, with special attention to programs that help youth develop teamwork skills and self-discipline.