A Guide to Mandeville LA Parks

Known for its small-town charm and waterfront views, Mandeville sits along the northern shore of Lake Pontchartrain. The city was established in 1834 and has a long-standing tradition of preserving green spaces and maintaining public areas that enhance its quality of life.

The parks in Mandeville reflect the city’s values — each one tailored to serve a different purpose, offering places for exercise, community events, waterfront recreation, or peaceful relaxation. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy Mandeville LA parks for their well-maintained amenities, natural settings, and opportunities for everything from fishing to attending farmers markets.

This guide covers the city's key parks in detail, focusing on the unique features that make each destination stand out.

Fontainebleau State Park is one of the most expansive and historically rich green spaces in the area. It covers over 2,800 acres and is located just east of Mandeville, bordering the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain. The park is built on the site of an old sugar plantation owned by Bernard de Marigny, the city's founder, and the crumbling brick remains of the sugar mill still stand as a reminder of its past.

The park regularly attracts photographers, bird watchers, and those looking to escape into a more natural setting without leaving the area. Visitors can explore nature trails that weave through moss-draped oak trees, marshlands, and scenic pine forests. The Tammany Trace, a 31-mile paved trail, runs through the park, making it a popular destination for cyclists and walkers. Fontainebleau also has a large beach area along the lakefront where people can swim or relax. Kayakers and paddleboarders often launch from this area.

Pelican Park is a large sports and recreation complex located just north of the main residential areas in Mandeville. It covers 200 acres and has over 30 athletic fields used for soccer, baseball, softball, and football. The park also includes indoor gymnasiums and open play areas. Its scale and layout make it a hub for league sports and youth tournaments, drawing teams across the region.

Within the Pelican Park property is the Castine Center, a 46,000-square-foot indoor event facility. This space is often used for expos, festivals, and community programs. Outside, the park includes a dog park, disc golf course, sand volleyball courts, and batting cages. Pelican Park isn’t just for athletes — it’s designed to support passive and active recreation. There are covered pavilions, a walking path, and shaded picnic spots for those not participating in sports.

Paul D. Cordes Park is centrally located behind Mandeville City Hall, offering a quieter and more shaded green space ideal for leisurely outings. It’s primarily known for its playground, which includes equipment for children of different ages. Open grassy areas and large oak trees provide natural cover throughout the park. Its layout makes it easy to supervise children while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere under the canopy of trees.

Paved walkways make the park accessible for walking or light exercise. Benches and picnic tables are positioned throughout, giving people the option to sit and enjoy the surroundings. The park's location near city offices makes it a convenient spot for residents who work in or visit downtown Mandeville.

Sunset Point Park is tucked away at the westernmost end of Lakeshore Drive, where Lake Pontchartrain reaches toward the city’s edge. The primary draw here is the large fishing pier that stretches far into the water, giving anglers a solid structure to cast lines and watch for boat traffic. The pier is also popular with walkers and photographers thanks to its unbroken views of the lake and frequent pelican sightings. Benches line the dock, allowing you to sit and watch the changing skies.

Aside from the pier, the park features a grassy area and shaded spots near the water, where people bring folding chairs or picnic blankets. The name “Sunset Point” reflects the location’s reputation for evening lake views. It’s a peaceful destination compared to the more structured parks, and while it lacks playgrounds or large event spaces, it offers direct access to the water.

The Mandeville Lakefront runs along Lakeshore Drive and includes wide sidewalks, benches, grassy areas, and views of Lake Pontchartrain. It’s one of the most recognized areas of the city, drawing people for walks, bike rides, or just to sit and look out over the water. The paved pathways are wide enough to accommodate joggers, casual strollers, and bikers, with plenty of room to spread out. Large oak trees dot the area, offering shade and a pleasant place to spend a morning or afternoon.

Special touches along the lakefront include historical markers and small monuments highlighting Mandeville’s past. Street parking is easy to find, and many restaurants and shops are within walking distance, making the lakefront a good launching point for a full day in town. It connects locals and visitors to the lake like no other part of town, giving it a unique status among Mandeville’s outdoor spaces.

The Mandeville Trailhead is more than just the starting point for the Tammany Trace — it’s a community space that blends recreation, culture, and local commerce. Located near Girod Street, the Trailhead includes access to the paved, multi-use path that stretches to Covington and beyond. It’s a favorite among runners, walkers, and cyclists who want to explore the region on a dedicated trail without vehicle traffic.

Events like the Saturday farmers market and live music performances often occur here, giving the Trailhead an active role in Mandeville’s social life. Restrooms and shaded seating areas make it convenient for extended visits. Public art installations and information kiosks help tie the space into Mandeville’s broader identity.

Tyler Thomas Park is a quiet residential area off Westwood Drive, offering open fields, shaded seating, and basic recreational amenities. This is the kind of park you go to when you're looking for a low-key place to relax, throw a ball, or go for a short walk. While it doesn’t offer the same scale of features as some larger parks, it provides an important green space for those living nearby.

Its simplicity is one of its biggest strengths. The open layout allows for spontaneous activity, such as tossing a frisbee, setting up a picnic, or enjoying some time outdoors without distraction. Neighborhood children often use a small play area, and the park’s quiet setting makes it a welcome escape from busier parts of town.

If you’re buying, selling, or investing in real estate in Mandeville, Allison Vencil brings the experience and local knowledge you want on your side. A New Orleans native with over 20 years in Sales, Real Estate, Property Management, and Marketing, Allison has worked with residential, commercial, and investment clients across the region. She’s certified as a Luxury Home Specialist but works confidently at every price point.

No matter your goals, you’ll have a dedicated expert who understands the local market and how to guide you through every step. Reach out to Allison Vencil to start your real estate journey in Mandeville with someone who combines professional insight with personalized service.