Parks and Recreation

St. Bernard Parish is a sportsman's paradise offering some of the best fishing and hunting in the country.   Boaters, skiers, anglers and hunters are served by many marinas and many public boat launches.

Prior to Hurricane Katrina over 20 public parks were located in St. Bernard including community tennis courts and ball fields which are also available. The parish is beginning to rebuild sports programs in the area.

Sidney Torres Park located behind the Civic Center along Jean Lafitte Parkway is approximately 20 acres and includes a lagoon, a jogging path, and playgrounds. Picnic tables, restrooms and a covered pavilion offer an ideal setting for family outings. A recent addition to the park is a children's playground and amphitheater built entirely by volunteers with privately raised funds which is currently being restored.

Val Riess Park located at end of Palmisano Blvd is approximately 23 Acres in area, which had a 1 mile nature trail, a picnic area, playground, and sports fields was heavily damaged by Katrina.  St. Bernard State Park  which provides outdoor recreation and camping on a 358-acre site just 18 miles away from New Orleans' French Quarter has reopened.