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Visitor Guidelines & Stewardship

Welcome to Dugas Community Park — 340+ acres of natural beauty, community spaces, and recreational opportunities for all. To protect this special place and ensure a safe, respectful experience for every visitor, we ask that you review and follow the information below.

Code of Conduct

Dugas Community Park exists to provide a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for individuals and families to enjoy recreation, nature, and community events. To preserve this mission, all visitors are expected to follow the rules outlined in this Code of Conduct.
 

Park Hours and Surveillance

  • The park is open to the public from dawn to dusk daily.

  • Video surveillance is in place throughout the park to ensure public safety.

  • Please report any illegal or suspicious activity: (270) 237-3611
     

Personal Conduct

  • Illegal drug use is strictly prohibited on park property.

  • Public intoxication and disruptive behavior, including excessive noise, verbal abuse, or physical altercations, will not be tolerated.

  • Respectful behavior toward park staff, volunteers, and fellow visitors is expected at all times.

  • Vandalism, graffiti, and destruction of property are criminal offenses and will be prosecuted.
     

Trails and Vehicles

  • Bicycles are allowed on designated multiuse trails.

  • Unauthorized motorized vehicles, including electric bicycles, are not permitted.

  • Pedestrians always have the right of way on shared paths.
     

Pets

  • All pets must be on a leash at all times, except in designated off-leash areas.

  • Pets are not allowed in the playground area.

  • Pet waste must be picked up and disposed of properly in provided waste stations.
     

Prohibited Items and Activities

  • Smoking, vaping, and tobacco use are not permitted anywhere in the park.

  • Alcohol, fireworks, and metal detectors are prohibited without written consent from Dugas Park leadership.

  • Glass containers are not allowed in or near the playground.

  • Fires are allowed only in designated firepits or fireplaces with a paid reservation.

  • Camping and overnight parking are allowed only by permit; unauthorized vehicles may be towed.
     

Park Cleanliness and Respect for Nature

  • Littering is not allowed. All Trash and recycling should be placed in designated containers.

  • Do not disturb or damage natural features, including trees, plants, and wildlife.
     

Facility Use and Reservations

  • Exclusive use of any park facility or structure requires a paid reservation.

  • Unreserved areas remain open for general public use.

  • Rental users are responsible for adhering to all posted regulations and returning the space to its original condition.

Park Stewardship: Our Six-Point Pledge

Dugas Community Park thrives because of community care. Inspired by Leave No Trace principles, we ask you to join us in protecting this land by committing to our Six-Point Stewardship Pledge:

1. Pack It In, Pack It Out

I will take all trash and personal belongings with me when I leave—leaving the space better than I found it.

2. Respect Natural Spaces

I will stay on marked trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and help protect plants, trees, and waterways.

3. Minimize Impact

I will use designated areas for fires and gatherings and avoid damaging natural or historical features.

4. Leave What I Find

I will not remove rocks, plants, or other natural elements so others can enjoy them too.

5. Be Considerate of Others

I will share public space respectfully, keep noise down, and follow all park guidelines.

6. Be an Example

I will take pride in this park and inspire others to practice good stewardship.

Let’s care for this park—together.

Thank you for helping us keep Dugas Community Park a safe, welcoming, and beautiful place for all.

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