Where to Play in Southwest Louisiana: All-New Parks, Playgrounds, and Water Features

Make a Splash at the Lazy Gator Waterpark

The biggest splash of the summer is happening in Westlake with the opening of the new Lazy Gator Waterpark. Officially opened in June, this 4.5-acre, resort-style destination offers aquatic fun for all ages. Visitors can float along the region’s longest lazy river, plunge down four waterslides (two thrill-level and two kid-friendly), cool off at the splash pad, or relax in the beach-entry pool. A 25-meter activity pool with basketball and volleyball courts adds to the fun for families and competitive swimmers alike.

Tropical touches like a tiki hut, swim-up bar, and cabana rentals bring vacation vibes close to home, while the fully accessible pools and splash pad ensure everyone can join in. Beyond the water, guests can grab a bite at the Gator Tail Grill, enjoy shaded seating, and take advantage of free lockers and showers. With 60 lifeguards on duty and admission just $5 for Westlake residents ($15 for non-residents, with discounts for seniors and military), the Lazy Gator is a refreshing and affordable addition to Southwest Louisiana’s growing list of family-friendly attractions.

Parks with Personality in Lake Charles

Across Lake Charles, playgrounds are getting a creative upgrade, trading cookie-cutter setups for unique, themed experiences that give each park its own personality—making park-hopping a fresh, ever-changing adventure for families.

Mary Belle Williams Park now celebrates the spirit of flight with a vibrant aviation theme, including airplane-themed play equipment that sparks young imaginations. It’s a nod to the area’s rich aviation history and a fun way to inspire the next generation of pilots and explorers.

Nearby, College Oaks Park has been transformed into a Wild West-themed playground, complete with western-style structures including a blacksmith shop, general store, train station, and even a county jail. It's the perfect spot for an afternoon of frontier-style fun and offers a great mix of sports and play in one destination.

Along the banks of the Calcasieu River, you’ll find Riverside Park, Lake Charles’ answer to nature-inspired play. The park’s design emphasizes environmental education and outdoor exploration, with interpretive signage, native landscaping, and walking trails. Kids can play, learn, and connect with nature all at once in this peaceful retreat just minutes from the city center.

Spotlight: Jellystone Park™ Lake Charles

If you’re looking to mix recreation with a bit of cartoon fun, look no further than Jellystone Park™ Lake Charles, which opened in spring 2025. This full-service family resort and campground features fully-furnished cabins, RV hookups, and tent camping—with a side of Yogi Bear™. Families can enjoy waterslides, a splash pad, mini golf, pedal carts, a floating obstacle course, and character visits that bring beloved childhood icons to life. It’s an ideal getaway for weekenders or vacationers looking to stay active and entertained—all in one place.

Plan Your Park Tour

Whether you’re floating at Lazy Gator, flying at Mary Belle Williams, riding the range at College Oaks, or camping with Yogi Bear, Southwest Louisiana’s parks and attractions are anything but ordinary. With themed play areas and innovative features, each park offers a fresh reason to get outside and explore Louisiana’s Playground.