Avoyelles Parish - 10 Attractions You Must Visit

The Atchafalaya National Heritage Area (ANHA) is a region in south-central Louisiana designated by the U.S. Congress in 2006 to preserve and promote the natural, historical, and cultural heritage of the Atchafalaya Basin. Spanning over 14 parishes, the ANHA encompasses a diverse landscape of swamps, bayous, wetlands, and forests, rich in biodiversity and cultural significance.

Bayou Rouge Baptist Church is a historic religious institution located in Louisiana. Founded in the early 19th century, the church has served as a focal point for the local community, providing spiritual guidance, fellowship, and support for its members. Situated near the Bayou Rouge waterway, the church has a rich history intertwined with the surrounding landscape and culture of the region.

Fort DeRussy, located in Marksville, Louisiana, is a historic site that played a significant role in the Civil War. Constructed in 1862 by Confederate forces, the fort served as a strategic defense post along the Red River during the conflict.

The Grand Cote National Wildlife Refuge, located in central Louisiana, is a vast expanse of protected wetlands and forests that serves as a crucial habitat for a diverse array of wildlife. Established in 1989, the refuge spans over 6,000 acres and encompasses a mix of bottomland hardwood forests, cypress-tupelo swamps, and freshwater marshes.

Lake Ophelia National Wildlife Refuge, situated in central Louisiana, is a protected area encompassing approximately 16,000 acres of diverse habitats, including bottomland hardwood forests, cypress-tupelo swamps, and open water bodies. Established in 1988, the refuge serves as a vital sanctuary for a wide variety of wildlife species, particularly migratory birds.

The Louisiana Colonial Trails are a network of historical routes that trace the paths of early European exploration and settlement in Louisiana during the colonial period. These trails highlight significant sites, landmarks, and events that played a pivotal role in shaping the history and culture of the region.

The Marksville Prehistoric Indian Site, located in Marksville, Louisiana, is an archaeological site of significant historical and cultural importance. Dating back over 2,000 years, it represents the remnants of an ancient Native American settlement belonging to the Marksville culture, a prominent prehistoric indigenous group in the Lower Mississippi Valley.

The Northup Trail in Louisiana commemorates the life and experiences of Solomon Northup, a free African American man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery in 1841. The trail follows the route of Northup's harrowing journey, as depicted in his memoir "Twelve Years a Slave," which was later adapted into an Academy Award-winning film.

St. Mary's Assumption Church, located in Cottonport, Louisiana, is a historic Catholic church with a rich heritage dating back to the late 19th century. Constructed in the Gothic Revival architectural style, the church stands as a prominent landmark in the community, characterized by its towering spires and intricate detailing.

St. Paul Lutheran Church, situated in Mansura, Louisiana, is a cherished religious institution with deep roots in the local community. Founded in the late 19th or early 20th century, the church has served as a beacon of faith and fellowship for parishioners of the Lutheran tradition in the area.