Fontainebleau State Park

Fontainebleau State Park, located on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain near Mandeville, Louisiana, is a scenic park that offers visitors a wide range of outdoor recreational activities amidst the natural beauty of the Louisiana coastline. Situated on the site of a former sugar plantation, the park is named after the Fontainebleau forest in France and is known for its stunning oak trees, scenic trails, and picturesque waterfront views.

One of the main attractions of Fontainebleau State Park is its beautiful natural setting along the shores of Lake Pontchartrain. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking on the park's sandy beach, which offers panoramic views of the lake and the distant skyline of New Orleans. The park's calm waters are also ideal for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, allowing visitors to explore the lake and its surrounding wetlands at their own pace.

In addition to its waterfront activities, Fontainebleau State Park offers a variety of recreational amenities and facilities for visitors to enjoy. The park features over 5 miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through scenic woodlands, marshes, and open fields, providing opportunities for nature lovers to spot a variety of bird species, including herons, egrets, and ospreys, as well as other wildlife such as deer, rabbits, and raccoons.

For those looking to spend the night, Fontainebleau State Park offers a variety of camping options, including tent and RV campsites, as well as rustic cabins and lodges that provide comfortable accommodations for overnight stays. The park also features a visitor center with exhibits on the park's history and ecology, as well as educational programs and guided nature walks led by park rangers.

Overall, Fontainebleau State Park offers a peaceful and scenic retreat for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the Louisiana coastline. Whether you're interested in swimming, fishing, hiking, or simply relaxing and enjoying the sights and sounds of nature, the park provides a tranquil setting for outdoor recreation and relaxation just a short drive from New Orleans.