Cane River Creole National Historical Park

Cane River Creole National Historical Park is located in Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana, and is dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of the Creole people in the Cane River area. The park spans over 200 acres and includes two historic plantations: Oakland and Magnolia.

The historical background of the park dates back to the 18th century when French and Spanish settlers established plantations along the Cane River. The Creole people, descendants of African, French, and Spanish ancestors, played a pivotal role in shaping the region's unique culture and economy. The park showcases the history of both enslaved and free Creole individuals who lived and worked on these plantations.

Visitors to Cane River Creole National Historical Park can explore the beautifully preserved historic buildings, including original slave quarters, a plantation house, and various outbuildings. The Oakland Plantation, built in 1821, provides insights into the daily lives of both enslaved and free Creole residents. Magnolia Plantation, built in the early 19th century, offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of a wealthy Creole family.

Aside from the historical buildings, the park also boasts scenic landscapes with moss-draped oak trees, vibrant gardens, and picturesque views of the Cane River. Picnicking, hiking, and photography are popular activities for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the park.

For those interested in further exploring the area, nearby attractions include the Melrose Plantation, a famous historic site known for its connection to African American culture and art. The city of Natchitoches, the oldest permanent settlement in Louisiana, is also worth a visit. Its charming downtown area is known for its historic buildings, shops, and restaurants.

In summary, Cane River Creole National Historical Park in Louisiana offers a unique opportunity to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Creole people in the Cane River area. With its well-preserved historic buildings, scenic landscapes, and nearby attractions, it provides a captivating experience for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Cane River Creole National Historical Park is nestled in the heart of Louisiana, in the northwest region of the state. Located in Natchitoches Parish, the park is surrounded by the serene beauty of the Cane River Lake and its adjacent fertile lands. This historical park spans over several miles and includes various sites and structures that showcase the rich history of the region. Situated in an area renowned for its Creole culture and plantation heritage, the park's geographical location allows visitors to immerse themselves in the captivating landscapes and absorb the essence of Louisiana's past.

Address & Contact

4386 Highway 494, Natchez, LA 71456 (Oakland )
5549 Highway 119, Cloutierville, LA 71416 (Magnolia)
4386 Highway 494, Natchez, LA 71456 (Oakland )
Natchitoches Parish, LA 71457
Driving Directions
Phone: 318-352-0383
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Cane River Creole National Historical Park is from October to November. During this period, the average maximum temperature ranges from 69°F to 79°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation is relatively low, ranging from 3.6 in to 5.3 in, ensuring favorable conditions for exploring the park. Furthermore, visitor numbers during these months are moderate. This allows for a more peaceful and enjoyable experience, avoiding large crowds.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Cane River Creole National Historical Park are: Food Picnicking Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Junior Ranger Program Arts and Culture

Topics

Learn about these topics at Cane River Creole National Historical Park: Animals Birds Architecture and Building Laborer and Worker African American Heritage Enslavement Plantations Farming and Agriculture

Visitor Centers

Texas and Pacific Railway Depot

The depot is open Wednesday-Sunday, 9 am-3:30 pm. Inside you'll find exhibits, NPS passport stamp, and Junior Ranger books. Closed Monday and Tuesday. The Texas & Pacific Railway Depot, completed in 1927, stands as one of the last remaining segregated buildings in Louisiana. Separate entrances for “White” and “Colored” passengers lead to two waiting rooms segregated by race and marked by different building materials. Passenger rail service ended in Natchitoches in 1965, and the depot was never integrated.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Texas and Pacific Railway Depot.

Campsites within or near Cane River Creole National Historical Park

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Cane River Creole National Historical Park

Super 8 by Wyndham Natchitoches

With a stay at Super 8 by Wyndham Natchitoches in Natchitoches, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Northwestern State University and Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 5821 Highway 1 Byp, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457
Web: Link

Motel 6 Natchitoches, LA

With a stay at Motel 6 Natchitoches, LA in Natchitoches, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of National Fish Hatchery & Aquarium and Fort St. Jean Baptiste. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk and laundry facilities. RV/bus/truck parking is available onsite.
Address: 7624 Highway 1 Bypass, Shamard Heights, Louisiana 71457
Web: Link

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Natchitoches, an IHG Hotel

Located in Natchitoches, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Natchitoches, an IHG Hotel is in a rural location, within a 10-minute drive of Northwestern State University and Fort St. Jean Baptiste. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 5137 University Pkwy, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457
Web: Link

Comfort Suites Natchitoches

With a stay at Comfort Suites Natchitoches, you'll be centrally located in Natchitoches, within a 10-minute drive of Northwestern State University and Fort St. Jean Baptiste. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 151 Hayes Ave., Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457
Web: Link

Church Street Inn

A stay at Church Street Inn places you in the heart of Natchitoches, within a 5-minute walk of Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile Store and Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame. Featured amenities include luggage storage and coffee/tea in a common area. Event facilities at this hotel consist of a conference center and a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 120 Church Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457
Web: Link

The Good House Bed and Breakfast

With a stay at The Good House Bed and Breakfast in Natchitoches, you'll be within a 10-minute walk of Prudhomme-Rouquier House and Cane River National Heritage Area. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, coffee/tea in a common area, and microwave in a common area. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 314 Rue Poete, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457
Web: Link

Chateau Saint Denis

With a stay at Chateau Saint Denis in Natchitoches (Downtown Historic), you'll be steps from Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and 3 minutes by foot from Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile Store. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. This hotel has 4 meeting rooms available for events. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 751 Second St, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457
Web: Link

Sweet Cane Inn

A stay at Sweet Cane Inn places you in the heart of Natchitoches, within a 5-minute walk of Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile Store. Featured amenities include a library and coffee/tea in a common area. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 926 Washington Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457
Web: Link

Jefferson House Bed and Breakfast

Located in Natchitoches, Jefferson House Bed and Breakfast is in the historical district, within a 5-minute walk of Fort St. Jean Baptiste and Prudhomme-Rouquier House. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 229 Jefferson St, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457
Web: Link

Opus House Bed and Breakfast

With a stay at Opus House Bed and Breakfast in Natchitoches, you'll be within a 10-minute walk of Fort St. Jean Baptiste and Northwestern State University. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 219 Williams Ave, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457
Web: Link