Ready to squeeze in a little more summer fun before school starts? We have an exciting and budget-friendly idea: you can now visit Louisiana State Parks for FREE—thanks to a new, pilot program available through select public libraries and the State Library of Louisiana.
This pilot program officially began in October 2024 but since that time several more library systems across the state of Louisiana have joined in.
📍 Participating Libraries:
As of now, we have three library systems in our area participating in this program:
- Vermilion Parish Library
- St. Mary Parish Library
- St. Martin Parish Library
The free day pass and Geaux Explore Backpack allows local families the opportunity to explore the natural beauty in the state parks of Louisiana. Not sure if your local branch participates? Call or visit your parish library’s website to find out! Check out the graphic below for the library systems currently participating in this program.
 Logo via State Library of Louisiana | Image created by Tracie Ysaguire | Canva |
How It Works:
The Check Out Louisiana State Parks program lets eligible library card holders “check out” a free day pass and the Geaux Explore Backpack to enjoy any participating Louisiana State Park. The Geaux Explore Backpack includes several items for the family to enjoy like:
- A pass for a free, one-day entry to any Louisiana state parks or historic site
- Set of binoculars
- Compass
- Magnifying glass
- Leave No Trace outdoor ethics cards
- Louisiana Bird Guide
- Louisiana Wildlife Guide
- Louisiana Trees and Wildflower Guide
Think of it like checking out a book! Only instead of flipping pages, you’re flipping burgers at a campsite, hiking the many scenic trails, or splashing in the bayous and waterways of our state. According to State Library of Louisiana website, this program is a partnership between the State Library of Louisiana and Louisiana State Parks.
Plan Your One-Tank Road Trip Adventure!
🌳Which Louisiana State Park Should Your Family Visit? 🌳
Click here for the list of all Louisiana State Parks and Historic Sites!
🏕️ What’s Included:
- FREE admission to any Louisiana State Park for up to 6 people in one vehicle
- Valid for day use only (but hey, that’s a whole day of fresh air and family fun!)
- Geaux Explore Backpack
- The day pass does not include access to cabins, campgrounds, or other programs and is not valid for overnight visits
The program does however have some restrictions. Patrons can only check out a pass once every six months. Also, participating libraries in the program can decide if all branches or just the main branch will offer the passes, so I suggest checking with the main branch of your library system first. There are no reservations or holds on passes, as they are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
 Image by Macaroni KID |
You don’t need to drive to far from home to feel worlds away. Here are a few of the parks we recommend visiting:
🚗 One-Tank Trip Inspiration:
- Lake Fausse Pointe (St. Martinville): Canoe trails, cabins, and beautiful views
- Chicot State Park (Ville Platte): A nature center, fishing, and shaded hiking trails
- Palmetto Island (Abbeville): Water playground and quiet nature walks perfect for little legs
- Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site (Natchitoches): Reconstructed fort, historic reenactments, nature programs
- Grand Isle State Park (Grand Isle): Fishing, hiking, paddling, camping
- Cypremort Point State Park (Franklin): Swimming, hiking trails, boating
- Sam Houston Jones State Park (Lake Charles): Biking, boating, nature trails and preserves
🧺 What to Pack:
- A picnic lunch, snacks, utensils, and water
- Blankets and folding chairs
- Sunscreen and bug spray
- Swimsuits, towels, and water shoes and a change of clothes, (just in case)
- First-Aid Kit
- Bikes or scooters for paved trails
- A library book, (why not?)
📝 Final Notes:
The Check Out Louisiana State Park Program is the perfect “one tank trip” idea for local families who are on a budget. It offers local families a low-cost traveling option loaded with adventure. Plus, it's a great way to show your kids the beauty of Louisiana’s wild side without spending a dime on admission.
The Check Out Louisiana State Parks is only part one of a pilot program created by the State of Louisiana, the State Library, and Louisiana State Parks. The next phase of this program, Check Out Louisiana Museums, is in the beginning stages of implementation and will follow the same concept, allowing patrons of specific library systems the option to explore our state museums as well.
Share your feedback! The State Library of Louisiana is asking all patrons who utilize this program to fill out a survey about your experience. You can also share photos of your trip on social media using the hashtag #CheckOutLouisiana.
Snap a family photo at the park and tag your library and Macaroni KID New Iberia Abbeville Breaux Bridge with the tags #OneTankTrip #FindYourFamilyFun #MacKIDNewIberia to share the love and spread the word!
