Hey there! Have you ever dreamed of going on an adventure through Louisiana's state parks? Imagine a nature-filled scavenger hunt where you can discover amazing flowers, majestic trees, and birds—all without breaking the bank! Thanks to an exciting new partnership between the State Library of Louisiana and Louisiana State Parks called Check Out Louisiana State Parks, you can. This program allows families and individuals to experience the outdoors with the Geaux Explore Backpack—and it’s completely FREE!
What’s in the Geaux Explore Backpack?
At participating libraries across the state, you can check out a “Geaux Explore” backpack, packed with everything you need for an outdoor adventure. Each backpack includes:
- A free one-day pass to any Louisiana State Park or Historic Site (One FREE Pass, Other Guests: $3.00 per person)
- Binoculars for bird-watching
- A compass and magnifying glass for exploring
- A set of Leave No Trace outdoor ethics cards
- Guides on Louisiana birds, trees, and wildflowers!
These tools make it easy for both seasoned adventurers and curious beginners to get out and connect with nature. Trying something new, without spending a lot of money, and who knows, you may find your new passion! Imagine spotting rare birds, identifying local wildflowers, and exploring hiking trails with a backpack with the supplies you need!
Eighteen public libraries are participating in the Check Out Louisiana State Parks pilot program: Calcasieu, Claiborne, East Baton Rouge, Evangeline, Iberville, Jackson, Jefferson, Livingston, Morehouse, Richland, St. Martin, St. Mary, St. Tammany, Union, Vermilion, Vernon, Washington, and Webster Parish Public Libraries.
You may have noticed Ouachita Parish isn't listed but we've checked and double-checked, Ouachita Parish Residents can visit a library in another parish and check out a Geaux Explore Backpack!
How? With a Trail Blazer Library Card! This special library card allows residents to visit participating libraries in other parishes to check out books and other resources including the Geaux Explore Backpack.
How to get a Trail Blazer Library Card?
A Trail Blazer Library Card can be used and applied for in several parishes, which include: Caldwell, Concordia, East Carroll, Franklin, Jackson, Lincoln, Madison, Morehouse, Ouachita, Richland, Tensas, Union, and West Carroll. It’s simple to become a Trail Blazer:
- You must have a library card in good standing at your home parish library
- Go to your home parish library, request a Trail Blazer Card
- You will then use your Trail Blazer Card at participating libraries in Louisiana
The Geaux Explore Backpacks are available at the following parish libraries: Morehouse, Richland, and Union Parish Public Libraries.
Whether you’re an avid bird watcher or just looking for a fun, budget-friendly outing with the kids, the Check Out Louisiana State Parks Program is a wonderful way to experience all the beauty that our state parks offer. So head to a library, grab a Geaux Explore Backpack, and get ready to make some memories!
Louisiana’s natural wonders are waiting—don’t miss out on this incredible, free opportunity to discover them! We recommend calling the library you plan on visiting to make sure the Geaux Explore Backpacks are not already checked out before you make the trip.
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