Originally known as Amite Springs, Denham Springs is a sprawling residential city east of Baton Rouge. It takes its name from a Mississippi native, William Denham, who purchased land here in the 1820s before the area flourished as a health resort. Denham Springs centres around a charming historic core with antique stores, boutiques and cafes.
Things to do in Denham Springs
Just across the Amite River from Denham Springs is the Frenchtown Conservation Area, which protects around 200 hectares of bottomland hardwood forest. It provides important habitat for migratory birds, as well as dozens of species of reptiles and amphibians. Roughly five kilometres of hiking trails wind their way through the reserve, providing access to a riverfront beach.
Travelling with kids? They’ll love spending an afternoon at the Airborne Extreme Trampoline Park, which is home to a ninja course, battle beams and plenty of trampolines. They can challenge themselves on the bouldering wall and the fidget ladder or whizz down the spiral slide. The on-site cafe serves drinks and snacks throughout the day.
North-east of Denham Springs is the 45-hectare green space of North Park, where you’ll find sporting courts, a children’s playground and an aquatic centre. For a retail fix, head south to Juban Crossing, which is home to around 100 retail stores that include Old Navy, Bath & Body Works and Academy Sports.
Getting around Denham Springs
Denham Springs is around 30 minutes’ drive from the centre of Baton Rouge and 40 minutes from Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport, which has flights to destinations across the United States. The much larger Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is 1.5 hours away. Regular buses connect to Denham Springs, although renting a car will give you greater freedom to explore the area.