The Judy Bateman Arboretum is a public park and living collection of trees and plants dedicated to conservation, sustainable land management, environmental education, and recreation, serving as a valued natural asset within the City of St. Peters Park system and contributing to the environmental health and livability of the community. Located specifically within City Centre Park, the arboretum encompasses five acres of the park’s overall 78-acre footprint, offering visitors a more serene and thoughtfully curated landscape within a larger recreational setting.

A defining feature of the arboretum is its lake, with waterfall and fountains, which spans just under an acre and serves as both a scenic focal point and an important ecological element. Mature bald cypress trees surround the lake, creating a striking visual presence while also providing valuable wildlife habitat and enhancing the natural character of the space.  Grand bur oak trees span the west side of the arboretum. 

A significant portion of the arboretum’s trees are Memorial plantings, generously sponsored by residents in honor or memory of loved ones. These trees add a deeply personal and meaningful layer to the arboretum, making it a place of reflection and connection for the community. The arboretum features a diverse mix of native and non-native species, both of which play an important role in the park’s ecological health, educational opportunities, and overall landscape design.