National Lands: Louisiana

English: A scene in the Atchafalaya Basin in Louisiana, USA. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Louisiana is a state rich in culture and the national lands in this state reflect the importance of its cultural heritage. Atchafalaya National Heritage Area covers fourteen parishes and celebrates the Cajun Culture in the area. Basically, this site is the center of the lower section of Louisiana. Interstate 49 and Interstate 10 are close to this part of the state. The Cane River Heritage Area is located in Natchitoches which is on Interstate 49 between Shreveport and Alexandria. Forts, plantations, museums and historic homes are in the area. Hiking, biking and fishing are some activities. In Natchez is Cane River Creole National Historic Park. The park celebrates the Creole culture and includes two plantations.

El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail is shared with Texas. This 1,000 mile road connected missions and posts. In Louisiana this trail travels west from Natchitoches. Interstate 49 is the closest interstate. In New Orleans the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve has six sites around southern Louisiana. These include a cemetery, a battlefield and a museum. These sites are not close to on another, so visitors should check the National Park Service website. The New Orleans Jazz National Historic Park pays homage to the famous music of New Orleans. The visitor center is in the French Quarter. The Poverty Point National Monument in Epps is located in the northeastern corner of the state. It is just north of Interstate 20 and west of the Mississippi River. This site has 400 acres and has Native American earthworks dating back to 12 centuries before Christ.