Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana
Avoyelles Parish sits in central Louisiana, where expansive swamps, wetlands, and sugar cane fields stretch across the landscape. Its rich Creole and Cajun heritage influences everything from the local food and music to the traditions that shape everyday life.
Nature lovers will find plenty to explore throughout the parish. The winding bayous provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing, while the Spring Bayou Wildlife Management Area offers a scenic setting for outdoor recreation and exploration.
The parish seat, Marksville, has a relaxed small-town atmosphere but comes alive during the annual Cochon de Lait Festival, a beloved local celebration centered around Louisiana food, music, and community traditions. It’s one of the events that captures the lively character of Avoyelles Parish.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Parish Name | Avoyelles Parish |
| Parish Seat | Marksville |
| Etymology | Named after the Avoyel people, a Native American tribe that originally inhabited the area |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Marksville, Bunkie, Mansura, Simmesport, Moreauville, Cottonport, Plaucheville, Hessmer, Evergreen |
| Interstates and Highways | US-71, US-165, LA-1, LA-29, LA-107, LA-115 |
| FIPS Code | 22-009 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 866 square miles (832 sq mi land, 34 sq mi water) |
| Adjacent Parishes (and Direction) | La Salle Parish (North), Catahoula Parish (North), Concordia Parish (Northeast), West Feliciana Parish (East), Pointe Coupee Parish (Southeast), St. Landry Parish (South), Evangeline Parish (Southwest), Rapides Parish (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| State | Louisiana |
| Coordinates | 31.0755° N, 92.0028° W |
| Major Landmarks | Paragon Casino Resort, Fort DeRussy, Marksville Prehistoric Indian Site, Tunica-Biloxi Cultural and Educational Resources Center, Avoyelles Courthouse |
| Population | Approximately 40,000 |
