The Barataria Preserve outside Marrero offers a taste of Louisiana’s wild wetlands. The preserve’s 20,000 acres include bayous, swamps, marshes, forests, alligators, nutrias, and over 300 species of birds. Boardwalk and dirt trails wind through the preserve and waterways can be explored by canoe or kayak; hikers and paddlers can check out the preserve map here. Exhibits at the preserve visitor center highlight how the Mississippi River built Louisiana's wetlands, the national importance of the area, and the relation between the land and its people. Kids can earn a badge with the Junior Ranger program. An environmental education center is used for field trips and special programs. The center's bookstore has books, music, children's books, and field guides on sale. Admission to the preserve is free. Click here for directions and program listings for specific dates.

6588 Barataria Boulevard, Marrero (near Crown Point)
504-589-2330 ext. 10
Open daily 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Closed December 25 and Mardi Gras. Useful information about public transportation, regulations on pets, etc., is available here. Specific information about the preserve is at the Barataria Preserve Frequently Asked Questions page.

Regularly scheduled programs (see the park schedule of events for specific dates and more information. For reservations, call the Barataria Preserve Visitor Center)

• Free ranger-guided walks daily at 10:00 a.m. on preserve trails
• Free ranger-guided sunset strolls every month under the full moon. Reservations required
• Free birdwatching walks in spring and fall. Reservations required
• Free Saturday morning ranger-guided canoe treks in spring and fall. Reservations required
• Free ranger-guided canoe treks under the full moon in spring and fall. Reservations required

Special events and programs

• Field trips for schools and other groups by reservation
• Summer day camps for children
• dark skies astronomy program 8:00 p.m., Saturday, June 27. Meet the stars as astronomers from the St. Charles Parish Planetarium introduce the constellations. Explore the universe through telescopes or bring your own binoculars. Free but space limited so call for reservations