From parks and wildlife refuges to conservation centers, nature is abundant in Ouachita Parish. You can explore the Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge to see local plant and animal life up close. In their conservation center, you can learn from amazing live native wildlife exhibits. The Friends of Black Bayou conservation group also provides many educational events throughout the year including nature hikes, animal observation days, and more!

The Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo hosts wildlife from around the world. The mission of the Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo is “to help people develop a sustainable relationship with nature.” This zoo focuses on the recreation and education of the people. The conservation of wildlife and the discovery of biological knowledge are top priorities, focusing on the rehabilitation of animals and providing them with an environment to thrive in. Here you can experience feeding giant tortoises, budgies, and animals in the petting zoo.

Get some fresh air at one of the many local parks or trails in Monroe-West Monroe. Take the dogs on a walk at Kiroli’s Raising Canes Dog Park. Or let the kids get their energy out on a stroll around Restoration Park’s walking trail. There are so many parks to explore!

Home to many rivers, lakes, and bayous, there’s no shortage of ways to get on the water here. Get your kayak or rent one from H2Go Paddle and discover the serenity of floating down the Ouachita River, Black Bayou, or Bayou Desiard.

To enhance and protect the natural beauty of Monroe-West Monroe, it’s important that our community does our part to keep Ouachita Parish clean. The week of Earth Day in Louisiana is “Love the Boot Week”, where locals can participate in cleanups to keep our great state beautiful.

Soak up some sunshine on this Earth Day and explore all the nature that Monroe-West Monroe has to offer!