R.L. Cook Park - Ruston, LA
R.L. Cook Park – A Dog-Friendly Park in Ruston, Louisiana
R.L. Cook Park in Ruston, Louisiana, is a popular destination for locals and visitors seeking a spacious, pet-friendly location for outdoor fun. Known for its scenic walking and biking trails, the park offers a blend of open areas and shaded spots that make it a favorite among dog owners looking for dog-friendly hiking or a casual stroll. The trails are equipped with exercise stations, picnic tables, and benches, making it a great spot to enjoy the outdoors with your furry companion. The park is also host to several beloved community events throughout the year, including the Peach Festival and Rock the Railroad, giving it a vibrant neighborhood feel.
While R.L. Cook Park is praised for its natural beauty and the chance to let dogs roam on a leash, it does not feature a dedicated fenced dog area. However, the mixture of paved and natural walking paths provides ample space for leashed adventures. Family-friendly amenities, such as a playground and splash pad, add to its appeal, though visitors are encouraged to help keep the park clean due to periodic littering. With nearby parking and easy accessibility, R.L. Cook Park is an excellent choice for those seeking a pet-friendly park in Ruston, LA.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times in the park, as there is no fenced dog area.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the park offers walking and biking trails with exercise equipment along the route.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, there are shaded areas and picnic tables throughout the park.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, benches and picnic tables are available for seating.
- Are there restrooms available for owners? Yes, restrooms and showers are available and kept clean.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, there is a playground and a splash pad for children.
- Is parking available? Yes, there is parking available close to the park’s entrance.
- Are there special events or festivals held in the park? Yes, R.L. Cook Park hosts events like the Peach Festival, Rock the Railroad, and local concerts throughout the year.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? The park is generally maintained, but visitors note that litter can sometimes be an issue.
Reviews
I picked up a whole bag of trash on my short walk, people don’t care and walk right over it. Sad.
This is one of our favorite parks when we visit Ruston. This park is great for all ages. The walking trail has various workout equipment sets you can use for free. Great for biking or skating too.
It would be better if the bike trail was revived again. I loved the trail even if it has been abandoned now.
🚨🚨🚨I don’t know whose idea it was to put graveled sand where children are running. I watched several children slip slide and fall on that sand. My baby slid on it and hit his head!!! He has abrasions, bruises and swelling to his forehead and eye. This is a very serious safety hazard!!!!! That sand needs to be cleared away from the playground. Having the playground bordered or putting artificial grass or anything is better than having that slippery graveled sand there. FIX THIS RUSTON🚨🚨🚨
I love this park. Since I moved to the area I frequent here a bunch. It’s great for walks, runs, and bike rides (mountain bikes because the trail gets bumpy if you follow it out to the greenway). There’s picnic tables and benches and some exercise equipment on the loop if you stay within the park. There’s always people walking around so it’s safe if you’re wondering by yourself. The trail leading out is great if you want to go longer distances.
I picked up a whole bag of trash on my short walk, people don’t care and walk right over it. Sad.
This is one of our favorite parks when we visit Ruston. This park is great for all ages. The walking trail has various workout equipment sets you can use for free. Great for biking or skating too.
It would be better if the bike trail was revived again. I loved the trail even if it has been abandoned now.
🚨🚨🚨I don’t know whose idea it was to put graveled sand where children are running. I watched several children slip slide and fall on that sand. My baby slid on it and hit his head!!! He has abrasions, bruises and swelling to his forehead and eye. This is a very serious safety hazard!!!!! That sand needs to be cleared away from the playground. Having the playground bordered or putting artificial grass or anything is better than having that slippery graveled sand there. FIX THIS RUSTON🚨🚨🚨
I love this park. Since I moved to the area I frequent here a bunch. It’s great for walks, runs, and bike rides (mountain bikes because the trail gets bumpy if you follow it out to the greenway). There’s picnic tables and benches and some exercise equipment on the loop if you stay within the park. There’s always people walking around so it’s safe if you’re wondering by yourself. The trail leading out is great if you want to go longer distances.
I picked up a whole bag of trash on my short walk, people don’t care and walk right over it. Sad.
This is one of our favorite parks when we visit Ruston. This park is great for all ages. The walking trail has various workout equipment sets you can use for free. Great for biking or skating too.
It would be better if the bike trail was revived again. I loved the trail even if it has been abandoned now.
🚨🚨🚨I don’t know whose idea it was to put graveled sand where children are running. I watched several children slip slide and fall on that sand. My baby slid on it and hit his head!!! He has abrasions, bruises and swelling to his forehead and eye. This is a very serious safety hazard!!!!! That sand needs to be cleared away from the playground. Having the playground bordered or putting artificial grass or anything is better than having that slippery graveled sand there. FIX THIS RUSTON🚨🚨🚨
I love this park. Since I moved to the area I frequent here a bunch. It’s great for walks, runs, and bike rides (mountain bikes because the trail gets bumpy if you follow it out to the greenway). There’s picnic tables and benches and some exercise equipment on the loop if you stay within the park. There’s always people walking around so it’s safe if you’re wondering by yourself. The trail leading out is great if you want to go longer distances.