$40/hr, Phone Reservation Required

Professional photographers are required to pay $40/hour session fee, per client session. Please call to schedule an appointment time and to pay your fees.

Each year, Hilltop Arboretum welcomes many students and families who choose our beautiful grounds as the backgrounds for Homecoming, Prom, and other school dance photos. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, and to support the care of the Arboretum, the following policy applies on these nights:

Access Fee

• $5 per person
• Payment may be made onsite using the posted QR code.

Parking & Courtesy

• Parking is only allowed in designated areas inside the Arboretum when gates are open.
• On busy weekends, gates may be closed once the lot is full. Visitors who park in adjacent neighborhoods must not block driveways, mailboxes, or ignore No Parking signs.
• Vehicles parked illegally will be towed at the owner's expense.

Note on Professional Photography

• Our standard $40/hr photography policy applies on all other days for professional sessions.
• Dance Night access fees are a special rate that helps us manage the large number of visitors in a short time.

Thank You!

Your contribution helps maintain the Arboretum and ensures that Hilltop remains a welcoming, beautiful place for all. We appreciate your support!

Nature photographers are encouraged to capture the beauty of Hilltop's flora and fauna at no charge. No reservation required.

For commercial photo/video shoots, our location fee is:

• $150/hour with a 3-hour minimum
• $800 for a full-day shoot (up to 10 hours)
• Reservation required

Anyone requesting to fly a drone at Hilltop should follow these steps:

1.     Submit a request and the required documentation through the LSU Police drone approval page, identifying Hilltop Arboretum as the proposed location.

2.     Obtain written LSU authorization before flying. 

3.     Email a copy of the written authorization to taratitone@lsu.edu before the flight so Hilltop has a record of the approved date, location, and any conditions.

• Remain on the pathways and in grass areas at all times. Be aware of ants.
• Do not enter flowerbeds, mulched areas, or ravines.
• Do not injure, disturb, damage, or deface any plant, feature, or animal.
• No glitter or confetti. Prior approval may be given for the use of a biodegradable material.
• Temporary props may be used.
• Clean-up/ disposal (off-site) of all materials and must occur immediately following shoot.
• No alcoholic beverages.
• Do not block access to Hilltop’s entrance and main pathways.