City Park
crumbling brick ruins of a sugar mill built in 1829 by Bernard de Marigny de Mandeville , founder of the nearby town of Mandeville . The wealthy Marigny developed this area across Lake Pontchartrain from New Orleans as a sugar plantation until 1852 . The plantation income helped support his lavish lifestyle . He named his large landholding Fontainebleau after the beautiful forest near Paris , a favorite recreation area of the French kings .
The 2,800-acre park is located on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain . On a clear day , visitors can see the lake dotted with multicolored sailboats of all sizes and types . The sandy beach also is a delight for sunbathers . An old railroad track that runs through the park has been converted into the Tammany Trace as a part of the Rails to Trails program . It is a wonderful route for cycling , hiking , walking your dog and in-line skating . After a full day of activities , overnight guests can enjoy the rustic charm of the campground or the scenic setting of the lakefront cabins which are presently being renovated .
The park ’ s nature trail is a favorite of nature lovers . Interpretive signs along the trail will help you identify many of the common trees and shrubs . Always be on the lookout for birds and other animals , as over 400 different species live in and around Fontainebleau . Bordered on three sides .
8 Life Unleashed