The 20,000-acre Barataria Preserve
in Marrero Louisiana is part of the Jean Lafitte National Historical
Park & Preserve, which strives to preserve the unique natural
and cultural landscape of what has become Acadian, or Cajun, Louisiana.
Though used be human inhabitants for over 2,000 years and recently
extensively damaged by hurricane Katrina, the preserves expanse
of forest, marsh and Bald Cypress swamp are still relatively intact
and available for guests to enjoy.
The preserve is blessed with a wide variety of flora and fauna
for visitors to observe.
Aside from Alligators retiles like snakes and turtles, as well
as frogs and other amphibians are abundant here. Egrets, Herons
and Ibis frequent the preserve, as do deer Swamp Rabbits and 9-banded
Armadillos. Shrimp and crawfish swarm the waters while butterflies
and Orb-weaving spiders float and scuttle above. The park is rich
in plants, trees and Spanish Moss. Flowers like Bur Marigold,
Spider Lilies and Giant Blue Iris are found through out the preserve.
There are nearly 8 miles of hiking trails leading through the
preserve, including 2.5 miles of boardwalk. The Bayou Coquille
Trail visits prehistoric habitation sites and is wheelchair accessible.
The Old Barataria Trail is a relaxing trek through a hardwood
forest. The Marsh Overlook Trail allows guests to take a look
at American Alligators from an old spoil bank.
An even better way to see the sights in Louisiana’s Barataria
Preserve is by boat. There are 25 miles of navigable waterway
here, 9 of which are canoe only. Motorized boats are allowed on
the rest. Anglers will be happy to know that they can fish for
Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Bowfin and Sunfish with a valid Louisiana
Fishing License.
Use safety and common sense when visiting
the Barataria Preserve in Louisiana; wear life vests, don’t feed
the ‘gators and mind the Paper Wasp’s nests.
For more information on Louisiana’s
Barataria Preserve and the Jean Lafitte Historical Park & Preserve
call (504) 589-2330.
