Have a question about state parks? Ever wondered what kind of animals can be found at one of the parks? Do they really fire off cannons at some of the historic sites? Ask me, Ranger Louie! I can answer all of your State Parks and Historic Sites questions. And see some of the most commonly asked questions below! Is it safe to swim in the lakes and bayous at the State Parks we visit? Many of our State Parks have designated swimming areas, which are clearly marked. Always stay within these zones, and abide by basic precautions, such as never swimming alone and avoiding horseplay. A park ranger can give you a better indication of swimming opportunities at a particular park, as well as potential safety hazards. What kinds of things are there to do at State Parks, Historic Sites and Preservation Areas? Each State Park, Historic Site and Preservation Area offers a variety of activities, which you can learn about at the entrance or ranger station, or beforehand on the individual park's webpage. Picnicking, hiking, camping, and boating opportunities abound and many sites have nature centers, museums, water playgrounds, and other features that are fun for the whole family. Who do we call if there is an accident involving someone in our group? Upon check in at any facility you should first go in the entrance station to ask about emergency phone numbers for the local area. These may include the local police, fire and medical numbers as well as the number to the State Park, Historic Site or Preservation Area that you are in. What should I do if I encounter a snake or alligator? If you ever find yourself "face to face" with any dangerous animal, you should keep your distance! The safest way to observe wildlife in its natural setting is to give the animal room. And always stay with your family or group, and at least within "yelling distance" of a grownup! What rules should I follow in tending a campfire? Be aware of weather conditions when building a fire, especially if it is hot and dry. Fires spread easily in such an environment. Always use a fire ring. Never leave a blazing fire unattended. Always make sure a fire is completely extinguished. Do all rangers carry guns? The Office of State Parks employs two kinds of rangers: enforcement and interpretive. Enforcement rangers are our park police and they look after the general safety of our visitors. Like regular police, they are licensed and trained to carry weapons. Interpretive rangers conduct a wide variety of educational programs and demonstrations for the visiting public. They do not carry weapons, but, like enforcement rangers, are trained to handle basic emergencies.
Is it safe to swim in the lakes and bayous at the State Parks we visit? Many of our State Parks have designated swimming areas, which are clearly marked. Always stay within these zones, and abide by basic precautions, such as never swimming alone and avoiding horseplay. A park ranger can give you a better indication of swimming opportunities at a particular park, as well as potential safety hazards.
What kinds of things are there to do at State Parks, Historic Sites and Preservation Areas? Each State Park, Historic Site and Preservation Area offers a variety of activities, which you can learn about at the entrance or ranger station, or beforehand on the individual park's webpage. Picnicking, hiking, camping, and boating opportunities abound and many sites have nature centers, museums, water playgrounds, and other features that are fun for the whole family.
Who do we call if there is an accident involving someone in our group? Upon check in at any facility you should first go in the entrance station to ask about emergency phone numbers for the local area. These may include the local police, fire and medical numbers as well as the number to the State Park, Historic Site or Preservation Area that you are in.
What should I do if I encounter a snake or alligator? If you ever find yourself "face to face" with any dangerous animal, you should keep your distance! The safest way to observe wildlife in its natural setting is to give the animal room. And always stay with your family or group, and at least within "yelling distance" of a grownup!
What rules should I follow in tending a campfire? Be aware of weather conditions when building a fire, especially if it is hot and dry. Fires spread easily in such an environment. Always use a fire ring. Never leave a blazing fire unattended. Always make sure a fire is completely extinguished.
Do all rangers carry guns? The Office of State Parks employs two kinds of rangers: enforcement and interpretive. Enforcement rangers are our park police and they look after the general safety of our visitors. Like regular police, they are licensed and trained to carry weapons. Interpretive rangers conduct a wide variety of educational programs and demonstrations for the visiting public. They do not carry weapons, but, like enforcement rangers, are trained to handle basic emergencies.
