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Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau
The scenic location of the Nakatosh Campground in Natchitoches.
Courtesy Natchitoches Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
The brick streets of downtown Natchitoches, LA, have been welcoming visitors longer than any other Louisiana city. It’s the oldest settlement in the Pelican State and the community has taken care to preserve and honour the unique elements of its storied past. These stand alongside contemporary attractions and the combination of ‘old, new and one-of-a-kind’ draws RVers every year.
Natchitoches (pronounced Nack-a-tish) is located on the banks of Cane River Lake within the Cane River National Heritage area. This is a region known for its multi-cultural history and an easy 6 km (2.4 mi) drive from Natchitoches.
With a rich, interesting history, this Louisiana city was at the crossroads of such historic routes as the El Camino Real National Historic Trail and Jefferson Highway, the first paved international roadway. Today, these routes still attract RVers who love to explore authentic destinations and local flavours and connect Natchitoches to the rest of the state and beyond, offering a perspective on the uniqueness of this region.
Local RV Parks that are ‘Great Stays’
There are a number of accommodations for RVers. Some options include the Nakatosh Campground #2 and Grand Ecore RV Park. Both are within 10-15 minutes from the city centre and have great spaces and facilities.
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Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau
Kayaking and other watersports can be enjoyed throughout the year on Cane River Lake.
Grand Ecore is a gated park with maintained asphalt roads and 59 paved RV pads. Twenty-four are pull-through with water, sewer, power, fire rings, and solid bandwidth from the park-wide WiFi. Visitors can also enjoy the spacious activity centre with a full kitchen; a bathhouse with 12 individual restrooms/showers and laundry facilities are other benefits. Those who like paddlesports will appreciate the nearby concrete boat launch and floating wharf to access the local waterways.
Grand Ecore has a maximum stay of 28 days but Nakatosh Campground #2 (among others) allow longer visits with monthly rates and is a good alternative. With 19 RV sites (14 are full service), transient RVers and snowbirds will like the lake-front location, spacious grounds, BBQ/picnic areas, WiFi, cable and convenient facilities.
Other RV accommodations are available to suit specific preferences and lifestyles. Once a site is set up, downtown Natchitoches offers many services and interesting attractions including:
- The National Historic Landmark District
Located along a 33-block radius in downtown Natchitoches,’ this landscaped waterfront park is lined with restaurants, shops, book stores, art galleries, and historic homes. It hosts annual festivals and cultural events; the 45-night Natchitoches Christmas Festival of Lights is one of the most popular. It’s hosted from November 18 to January 6, 2024. https://www.natchitocheschristmas.com/
- Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile
A mainstay downtown, Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile is the oldest general store in Louisiana. It opened in 1863 and is the go-to spot for hardware needs and more. https://www.kaffiefrederick.com/
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Cane River Creole National Historical Park
The Oakland Plantation, which is part of the Cane River Creole National Historical Park.
- Natchitoches Film Trail
Another interesting attraction is the Natchitoches Film Trail. Several films were shot in the city including the Hollywood hit Steel Magnolias. RVers can take a self-guided city tour to see where the scenes of the beauty shop, wedding, funeral, Easter egg hunt and more were shot. True fans can also stay in the Steel Magnolia House bed and breakfast to experience living in Shelby’s childhood home. www.natchitoches.com/film
- Savour Local Cuisine
With a choice of dining options, Lasyone’s Meat Pie Restaurant creates the legendary ‘Natchitoches Meat Pie’ and recipes have been handed down through generations. Down river, the Cane River Commissary is another local favorite housed in an old commissary and serves Creole specialties. Be sure to try its popular Zydeco brunch held on the second Saturday of each month. www.lasyones.com/ https://www.canerivercommissary.com
The entire region’s history and culture are always celebrated. The museum commemorates the achievements of legendary Louisiana athletes and sports figures, It also exhibits the cultural traditions of the state - from early native-American civilizations to the present. www.louisianastatemuseum.org
- Kisatchie National Forest
This is Louisiana’s only national forest and has more than 24,4430 ha (604,000 ac) of preserved land. The recreational opportunities are vast and hiking, biking, horseback riding, camping, fishing, boating, and off-roading can all be enjoyed here. www.fs.usda.gov/kisatchie
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Brian Jarreau Photography
Stroll along the paved walking paths of the Natchitoches Riverfront and admire the scenic views.
Take a Road Trip Through ‘No Man’s Land’
Considered one of the best off-the-beaten-path destinations in the South, No Man’s Land was the first permanent settlement in the area and consisted of a neutral strip between the United States and Spanish territories. It was once a region of outlaws, rugged pioneers, and a blend of cultural groups, Natchitoches is still considered part of No Man’s Land and there are a number of historical and outdoor attractions.
For instance, El Camino Real National Historic Trail leads to Los Adaes State Historic Site, which dates back to the early 1700s and where you can learn about its military leaders, missionaries, and local Native Americans and frontier farmers. Other historic attractions along this area of El Camino Real include Fort St. Jean Baptiste and Fort Jesup State Historic Sites, and Cane River National Heritage Area.
The 126 km (78 mi) Toledo Bend Forest Scenic Byway is where RVers can admire the Toledo Bend Reservoir, the largest manmade lake in the South where some of Louisiana’s most impressive pines and hardwoods stand tall. The parks’ green spaces, golfing, fishing, and cycling the 48 km (26 mi) of trails are a few of the outdoor recreation opportunities.
Another attraction along this route is Cypress Bend Park, which has an expansive sand beach, playground, and a marina, as well as North Toledo Bend State Park. Both have RV sites and are known for activities like paddlesports, hiking, and fishing; bass is king here and designated tournaments are held throughout the year.
Final Thoughts on Natchitoches
Exploring scenic landscapes, visiting a variety of attractions, and relaxing in an RV park combine to provide unforgettable experiences in this region of Louisiana. With comfortable weather and a hospitable community, it will be the highlight of any RV trip through the winter and during next year’s RV season. For more information visit www.natchitoches.com