Audubon Park wilderness guide
Urban Park · Louisiana

Audubon Park

Audubon Park in New Orleans offers a serene urban green space along the Mississippi River, known for its beautiful landscaping, recreational amenities, and the Audubon Zoo.

Urban Park3402+ Trails

Designation

Urban Park

Total Wilderness Area

340

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Audubon Park

Audubon Park in New Orleans offers a serene urban green space along the Mississippi River, known for its beautiful landscaping, recreational amenities, and the Audubon Zoo.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Audubon Park is a prominent urban park located in the Uptown neighborhood of New Orleans, Louisiana, spanning approximately 340 acres along the Mississippi River. Established in the early 20th century and named after the naturalist and painter John James Audubon, the park features a blend of lush oak trees, open grassy areas, lagoons, and winding walking paths. The park was originally part of a plantation and was developed into a public park as part of the City Park system. Today, Audubon Park is a favorite destination for residents and visitors seeking outdoor recreation in a city setting. The park offers a variety of activities including jogging, biking on a dedicated scenic trail, picnicking, tennis courts, and a golf course. It is also home to the nationally renowned Audubon Zoo, which provides a connection to wildlife and conservation education. The park’s natural areas support local bird species, including herons and egrets, and features mature southern live oaks draped with Spanish moss, providing shade and habitat. Key landmarks include the Harding Memorial and the Mississippi River overlook, which provide scenic views of the waterway and the city skyline. The park’s proximity to the vibrant Audubon neighborhood and Tulane University make it a hub for outdoor activity, relaxation, and community events.

Field Guide · Urban Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Audubon Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Audubon Park Scenic Trail – a 1.8-mile paved loop popular with runners and cyclists✦ The Audubon Zoo – a world-class zoological park within the park grounds✦ Historic live oak groves draped with Spanish moss providing iconic southern landscape views✦ Mississippi River Overlook – offering panoramic views of the river and passing riverboats
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Audubon Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Audubon Park
Park Recreation

Cycling

Available in Audubon Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Audubon Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Audubon Park
Park Recreation

Tennis

Available in Audubon Park
Park Recreation

Golf

Available in Audubon Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Audubon Park
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Audubon Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Audubon Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access; parking fees apply during peak hours and events

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Audubon Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Jefferson, Louisiana
⌖ 2.50 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jefferson, Louisiana

Jefferson, Louisiana offers outdoor enthusiasts a gateway to the bayou with kayaking, fishing, biking, and bird watching. Its scenic waterways and nearby protected parks make it a must for adventure seekers visiting the NOLA area.

Fall and Spring
Explore Town
Westwego, Louisiana
⌖ 2.68 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Westwego, Louisiana

Westwego, Louisiana is a gateway for outdoor explorers seeking wetland paddling, birdwatching, and fishing along the Mississippi River coast. Experience quiet bayous, rich wildlife, and the charm of a historic coastal town.

Fall through early Spring
Explore Town
Marrero, Louisiana
⌖ 3.06 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Marrero, Louisiana

Marrero is the perfect spot for exploring Louisiana's bayou ecosystems. Kayak through swamps, enjoy birding and fishing, or take a wildlife tour in the Barataria Preserve.

Fall and Spring
Explore Town
Metairie, Louisiana
⌖ 3.90 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Metairie, Louisiana

Metairie offers easy outdoor access with biking and walking trails, calm bayous for kayaking, and family-friendly parks. It's a low-key spot to enjoy nature near New Orleans with good bird watching and fishing.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Gretna, Louisiana
⌖ 3.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gretna, Louisiana

Gretna offers a laid-back outdoor vibe with riverfront trails and paddling spots ideal for exploring the Mississippi River corridor. Perfect for casual bikers, kayakers, and birdwatchers seeking a water-centered adventure near New Orleans.

Fall through Spring
Explore Town
Nash, Louisiana
⌖ 7.19 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Nash, Louisiana

Nash, Louisiana offers outdoor lovers a peaceful gateway to fishing, paddling, and wildlife watching in northeastern Louisiana’s bayous and lakes. Ideal for travelers seeking quiet camping and scenic hiking from spring through fall.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Audubon Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.