As the home of Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge is closely associated with tigers. There could be no more cat-supportive environment than the $3.7 million, 15,000-square-foot habitat of Mike the Tiger, the college’s mascot, that’s located adjacent to Tiger Stadium. The official convention and visitors bureau of Baton Rouge also markets the city as dog-friendly, inviting residents and visitors to bring their dogs to Wampold Memorial Park and enjoy the amenities surrounding University Lake, including the sand and water of Baton Rouge Beach.

The Louisiana Capitol rises in the background of University Lake.

ReDunnLey/iStock via Getty Images Plus

Migrating pelicans arrive at University Lake in large numbers every year, adding another element to the environment of the area.

Roberto Michel/iStock via Getty Images Plus

The reflection of the sun creates a tranquil setting on the lake.

Susan Raines/alltrails

Baton Rouge Beach is part of the Milford Wampold Memorial Park. Recent upgrades have made the park more accessible and added green space.

Dylan Stark/flickr “BREC” is the acronym for the Recreation and Park Commission for the Parish of East Baton Rouge. Wampold is in a network of 180 parks that the BREC oversees.

There’s plenty of room to roam around University Lake, with well-maintained grass sections and walking trails. A full loop around the lake is possible to cover.

Dylan Stark/flickr

As framed by this lone tree, University Lake has a kind of understated beauty.

Jaydene Lowe/alltrails

University Lake is the centerpiece of what is known locally as “LSU Lakes,” six bodies of water surrounding the campus. The University Lake project, launched in June, is intended to improve the health of the lakes and enhance recreational opportunities, following through on a 2016 master plan. For more information about Baton Rouge and dog-friendly advice, see the city’s official visitor website.

ReDunnLey/iStock via Getty Images Plus

Roberto Michel/iStock via Getty Images Plus

Susan Raines/alltrails

Dylan Stark/flickr

“BREC” is the acronym for the Recreation and Park Commission for the Parish of East Baton Rouge. Wampold is in a network of 180 parks that the BREC oversees.

Jaydene Lowe/alltrails

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: University Lake, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA