February is almost over, and the weather in New Orleans is about to start warming up again. That means it’s time to play outside! In the Gulf South, we get that window of perfect weather from early March through early May, and that’s a wonderful time to get outside and explore. It’s still wise to keep an eye on the forecast in case of rain or a random cold snap, but the weather tends to be pretty beautiful down here this time of year.
Spring in the wetlands comes with new plant growth and a good chance to see some wildlife. As the weather starts to heat up, reptiles like alligators and turtles come out to sun themselves on logs and river banks. After so much time in the cold, they’re just as ready for some warmth as we are!
New Orleans City Park is certainly the easiest option for seeing vibrant spring wildlife within the city. With so much to offer, the park has something for everyone. From paddling to biking to outdoor museums and play places, you can pass the time enjoying these gorgeous spring days without ever leaving the city.
The City Park lagoons are alive with new growth in the spring, and you are likely to see plenty of turtles and waterfowl. If you’re lucky, you might even get to see an alligator!
The top 3 parks near New Orleans to visit in the spring
For the purpose of this list, we’re defining “near New Orleans” as being within an hour or so drive of the city. However, none of the parks on this list are actually within city limits. You’re going to have to venture out a bit to see these sites.
Check out our list of the top 9 hiking trails near New Orleans for more outdoor areas to explore.
The boardwalk is always beautiful at Jean Lafitte Barataria Preserve
Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve, Barataria Preserve
Location: 1419, Marrero, LA 70072
Jean Lafitte Barataria Preserve is a lovely spot for a scenic spring day hike. You are likely to see plenty of wildlife and new plant growth along the trails. Bring a lunch and make use of their picnic areas to fully enjoy your day at the park.
Park Features:
Multiple trails with a variety of distances
There are boardwalk trails as well as dirt trails
Wildlife is commonly seen along the trails
Irises typically bloom throughout the park in the spring
The Visitor’s Center has a lot of unique information about the area
Check here for updated information on alerts and conditions for the park
Specifics about this park:
No dogs allowed on the trails (gators can get pretty close to the trails)
No camping options
Bathroom located at the Visitor’s Center
Springtime means the flowers are in bloom at Fairview Riverside State Park!
Fairview Riverside State Park
119 Fairview Dr, Madisonville, LA 70447
Fairview Riverside State Park is the perfect location for a family day if you’ve got little kids. The trails are easy, and there’s a lot to enjoy. You likely won’t see a ton of wildlife, but the flowers are in bloom in the spring, and the Otis House is always scenic. Bring a lunch and utilize the picnic areas and playground for younger children.
Park Features:
Hiking trail with a boardwalk
Boat launch (for overnight guests camping at the park)
Fishing pier
The Otis House Museum is on-site and offers tours
Specifics about this park:
Camping is available for RVs and tents
Boat tours are offered at nearby locations
Admission to the park is $3/person
Warm sunny days are perfect for spotting gators
Cane Bayou
The entrance to the Cane Bayou boat launch does not have a physical address. However, it is about a half-mile east of the entrance to Fontainebleau State Park (62883 LA-1089, Mandeville, LA 70448).
If you prefer paddling to hiking, Cane Bayou will be more your style. This scenic waterway borders Fontainebleau State Park and empties into Lake Pontchartrain. It is part of the Big Branch National Wildlife Refuge. In the spring, the bayou is alive with new growth and plenty of wildlife. Be sure to bring a camera along if you want to get some good nature shots.
If you’re one of the many people who recently purchased your first kayak and you’re antsy to get out and use it, this is a great location to paddle. Keep in mind, paddling in remote locations does come with more safety concerns than paddling in City Park. Check out some important kayak safety tips before heading out there.
Waterway Features:
The bayou starts as a swamp and transitions into a marsh as it gets closer to the lake
Approximately 3-miles round trip if you paddle straight to the lake and back
There are a few smaller offshoots that you can paddle down if you would like to
Lots of wildlife
Lots of new growth in the spring
Free to bring your personal boat
If you would like to book a tour for a school group or nonprofit group, contact us for more info
Specifics about this waterway:
Secluded boat launch area
Port-o-potty on-site at the boat launch
Camping available nearby at Fontainebleau State Park
