Cane River National Heritage Area

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Cane River National Heritage Area

Cane River National Heritage Area in northwestern Louisiana is a largely rural, agricultural landscape known for its historic plantations, its distinctive Creole architecture, and its multi-cultural legacy. Historically this region lay at the intersection of French and Spanish realms in the New World. Today it is home to a unique blend of cultures, including French, Spanish, African, American Indian, and Creole. The central corridor of the heritage area begins just south of Natchitoches, the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase, and extends along both sides of Cane River Lake for approximately 35 miles. The heritage area includes Cane River Creole National Historical Park, seven National Historic Landmarks, three State Historic Sites, and many other historic plantations, homes, and churches. While much of the roughly 116,000-acre heritage area is privately owned, many sites are open to the public. Please visit our website at www.caneriverheritage.org

IN DEPTH

Sights to See Places To Go There are many historical places and fun activities to experience throughout the National Heritage Area. 1. Shopping 2. Guided trolley and carriage ride tours 3....read more

Who's Who at the Park Management The Cane River National Heritage Area Commission is a federal commission comprised of 19 members; it was designed to represent the numerous interests that intersect in the heritage area....read more

History History & Culture Not all of the agricultural holdings in this region were large plantations consisting of a big house complemented by large numbers of outbuildings. The majority of farming...read more

Just For Kids Be A Junior Ranger Cane River Creole National Historical Park - Oakland Site Visit Cane River Creole National Historial Park web site for information on Junior Ranger. Contact Intrepretation for information:  ...read more

Animals Animals Deer and a few black bears are found in the Heritage Area's nearby forest, along with a few cougars or panthers in the Red River Valley. Mink, raccoon, skunk,...read more

In A Nutshell Things To Know Before You Come Louisiana weather is very hot and humid in the spring and summer months. It can be very cold and damp in the winter. Dress...read more

Park Regulations & Safety Permits Permits/reservations can be arranged at individual sites if required For complete information contact the Natchitoches Area Convention & Visitors Bureau: 781 Front Street Natchitoches, LA 71457 phone: 800/259-1714 fax: 318/352-2415 email: est1714@natchitoches.net website: www.natchitoches.net What is...read more

Visitor Services Visitor Centers Natchitoches Convention & Visitors Bureau - Tourist Information Center 781 Front Street Natchitoches, LA 7l457 local phone: 318/ 352-8072 toll free:800/ 259-1714 fax number: 318/ 352-2415 www.natchitoches.netLodging There are several motels near the I-49...read more

Lodging & Dining Lodging There are several motels near the I-49 exit on Hwy 6 and scattered through the city. In addition, Natchitoches is home to a large number of B&B's. For additional...read more

Things To Do Guided Tours Although there are no buses available within Cane River Heritage Area, tour groups arriving on chartered buses may choose from the following tour guides to enhance their experience...read more