Walter B. Jacobs Memorial Nature Park
Explore 160 acres of trails and discover local wildlife at this free nature park with an engaging visitor center.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more wildlife
Walter B. Jacobs Memorial Nature Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 160 acres of trails and discover local wildlife at this free nature park with an engaging visitor center.
"Amazing! This place is for all ages to learn and get some outside adventure going."
🪰 Bring Bug Spray!
Essential for enjoying the trails without pesky insects.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Trails vary in difficulty, so wear shoes suitable for walking and light hiking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nature Center Exhibits
Visitor Center
Discover fascinating live raptors, reptiles, and interactive displays. Perfect for all ages to learn about local wildlife.
Diverse Hiking Trails
Throughout the park
Explore 5 miles of trails, from short, easy loops to more challenging paths through Louisiana's natural beauty.
Live Raptor Encounters
Nature Center
Get up close with majestic owls and eagles. A truly awe-inspiring experience for nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors (and Bugs!)
Free Fun for Everyone
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🪰 Bring Bug Spray!
Essential for enjoying the trails without pesky insects.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Trails vary in difficulty, so wear shoes suitable for walking and light hiking.
🐶 Leash Your Dog
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash.
📸 Capture the Wildlife
Bring your camera for amazing photo opportunities of birds and other creatures.
Tips
from all over the internet
🪰 Bring Bug Spray!
Essential for enjoying the trails without pesky insects.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Trails vary in difficulty, so wear shoes suitable for walking and light hiking.
🐶 Leash Your Dog
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash.
📸 Capture the Wildlife
Bring your camera for amazing photo opportunities of birds and other creatures.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Walter B. Jacobs Memorial Nature Park for its free admission, diverse trails, and engaging nature center with live animals. It's a highly recommended spot for families and anyone looking for an accessible outdoor adventure. Some mention the prevalence of spider webs and the need for bug spray, but these are minor points in an otherwise overwhelmingly positive experience.
"Amazing! This place is for all ages to learn and get some outside adventure going. Many trails go pretty deep and some short for those that don't want to walk to far. The exhibits on the inside are awesome. You can learn so much from birds to reptiles and more. The live exhibits are very fascinating. (Watch out) The snakes might scare you :) And they have a room for children with everything hands on. My favorite are the birds. The owls and the eagle....so majestic. It's just sad they have to be in an enclosure and not in the wilderness. Still cool seeing them up close.
And everything is FREE!"
Jacob Khan
"A great collection of trails that give a mostly unadulterated view of Louisiana nature in this region.
Such a great walk and so many trees, plants, and waterways to appreciate.
The walk and information are free.
Make sure you bring some bug spray."
David Caldwell
"Great for young kids, very interesting things in the visitors center. They have a little play room there. My kids aren't hikers but there is a short loop that was easy."
Johanna Parganokar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is located in Caddo Parish, just outside of Shreveport, Louisiana. It's easily accessible by car, offering a short drive for a nature escape.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the nature park, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While specific directions can vary, the park is generally found by heading east from Shreveport. GPS navigation is recommended for the most accurate route.
Public transportation options to reach the park are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient method for visitors.
The park is well-marked and a popular destination for locals, making it relatively easy to find once you are in the vicinity of Shreveport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Walter B. Jacobs Memorial Nature Park is completely free! This makes it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
The park generally opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours.
Yes, the park is a popular spot for children's birthdays and events, offering a natural and engaging setting.
The nature center often hosts presentations, including live animal encounters like owls and turtles, which are great for educational visits.
No reservations are typically required for general visits to the park, as it's a free-access public space.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The park boasts 5 miles of trails, ranging from short, easy loops suitable for families with young children to longer, more immersive paths for avid hikers.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Walter B. Jacobs Memorial Nature Park, provided they are kept on a leash at all times.
The nature center features fascinating exhibits on local flora and fauna, including live raptors like owls and eagles, as well as reptiles. There's also a dedicated hands-on room for children.
Absolutely! The park offers short, easy trails and an interactive children's room in the visitor center, making it very family-friendly.
It's highly recommended to bring bug spray, comfortable walking shoes, water, and a camera to fully enjoy your experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The nature center with its live animals, the diverse hiking trails showcasing Louisiana's flora, and any scenic overlooks offer great photo opportunities.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to photograph the animals, but always be respectful of their space and avoid flash photography that might disturb them.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require special permits, so it's best to inquire if you have specific needs.
You can expect to see various birds of prey, reptiles, and potentially other small mammals and insects native to the Louisiana region.
Definitely! The park's natural setting, diverse plant life, and resident wildlife make it an excellent location for nature photography enthusiasts.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Remember to wear appropriate footwear and bring water to stay hydrated during your exploration. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
These trails offer a largely unadulterated view of the region's native flora and fauna, allowing for a genuine connection with the outdoors. When planning your hike, it's crucial to be prepared. Many visitors recommend bringing bug spray as insects can be prevalent, especially during warmer months.
The Nature Center Experience
For younger visitors, the nature center includes a hands-on children's room, designed to spark curiosity and provide interactive learning experiences.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit