As summer kicks off in Baton Rouge, it’s important to find ways to keep yourself cool in the humidity. The Baton Rouge area has different pools available, whether you want relaxation or an action-packed time.
The closest pool for LSU students is right on campus at the UREC. The UREC has indoor and outdoor lap lanes for those who like to get their swim workout in. Summer hours for the indoor pool on weekdays are spread out throughout the day from 5:45 a.m. to 8 a.m., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. On weekends, the indoor pool is open from 9 a.m. to noon and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. The outdoor lap lanes are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends. For anyone who just wants to relax in the water, the UREC offers its Leisure River on weekdays from noon to 8 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. The pool is free to students, and passes are available for purchase for guests.
Just 20 minutes away from campus, off Florida Boulevard and Lobdell Avenue, Liberty Lagoon has a multitude of different attractions. The FlowRider simulates a surfing or boogie board ride in the ocean. The pool has two different water slides, as well as a playground and splash pad for younger kids. There is also a lazy river for those who want to relax in the water. The facility has concession stands and locker rentals. Summer hours in June and July are from noon to 6 p.m. Thursday through Monday and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, with the pool closed on Tuesday to accommodate lifeguard training. In August, the facility will move to weekend-only public swim until Labor Day weekend. A general admission pass costs $12 per person. If you want access to the slides, prices increase to $16, and admission increases to $20 for access to both the slides and FlowRider. Children under 1 are free. Rates are half off on Wednesdays due to the delayed opening for BREC Summer Camp programs. Tickets are available for purchase online 24 hours before your visit and in person. The pool does not offer refunds due to weather events, so make sure to check the forecast before purchasing your tickets.
If you are willing to take a little bit of a drive, Jambalaya Park Pool is located 35 minutes away from campus in Gonzales. The park offers a half-sized Olympic swimming pool and a shallow pool for small children only, as well as a free splash pad just outside the facility. Summer hours run from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday until Aug. 2. The facility will operate on weekends only beginning Aug. 3 through Labor Day weekend from noon to 5 p.m. The pool is not open on July 4. Admission costs $6 per person Tuesday through Friday and $7 on Saturday and Sunday. The pool does not accept cash and does not offer refunds for inclement weather.
Whether you’re looking to get in a workout at the UREC, spend the day riding waterslides at Liberty Lagoon, or enjoy a more laid-back swim at Jambalaya Park Pool, there are plenty of ways to stay cool around Baton Rouge this summer. No matter what pool you choose for your summer fun, be sure to bring sunscreen and plenty of water.
