Fontainebleu State Park

Found on the shores of the stunning Lake Pontchartrain, Fontainebleau State Park is a gorgeous 2,800-acre park with a rich maritime heritage. On sunny afternoons, guests can often see the lake covered in beautiful sailboats while fishers collect their nets and cast their reels. The sandy beaches provide some marvelous opportunities to catch a bit of a tan, and if you are exhausted from the days' events, you can always stay the night. 

Initially, a plantation owned by Bernard de Marigny de Mandeville, Fontainebleau State Park officially became a state park in 1938 as part of the government's Civilian Conservation Corps. Cycling is very popular in Fontainebleau State Park thanks to the Rails to Trails program, a national organization that travels to states with abandoned railroad tracks and converts them into paved walking and biking trails for you to enjoy. 

The cycling trails in Fontainebleau State Park are dedicated to the sport, and as such should not be explored on foot or with a canine in tow. Hiking is very popular here, especially for plant enthusiasts. Over 400 different species of plants and shrubs exist throughout the landscape, which means you will likely be finding something new around every corner. 

The 4.8-mile loop is aimed more towards traditional hikes, and as such is a bit challenging throughout. There also exists a 1.25-mile nature loop which is dotted with plaques about the individual plants and trees that you will be coming across. These trails are open to everyone, including your dog. If you bring along your canine companion, make sure they're on a 6-foot leash or shorter throughout their stay. 

A water playground was built in Fontainebleau State Park in 2005 and is free with your park admission. Canines are not permitted anywhere near these partially indoor facilities. Golf cart rental is available for the less able, for a $10 daily fee. These carts are allowed on all walking paths but are forbidden from entering the cycling trails.