Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana
Natchitoches Parish sits in northwestern Louisiana, with the Red River forming part of its eastern landscape. The parish name is pronounced “NAK-uh-tish,” a pronunciation that can be unfamiliar to many visitors.
The parish is home to Natchitoches, founded in 1714 and recognized as the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase. Today, the historic city serves as the parish seat and remains one of the region’s most distinctive communities.
The parish is known for its beautiful historic district, which has served as a backdrop for several films and showcases its rich architectural heritage. Cane River Lake winds through the area, providing scenic views along with opportunities for boating, fishing, and other outdoor recreation.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Parish Name | Natchitoches Parish |
| Parish Seat | Natchitoches |
| Etymology | Named after the Natchitoches Native American tribe |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Natchitoches, Campti, Clarence, Provencal, Robeline, Natchez, Goldonna, Powhatan, Marthaville |
| Interstates and Highways | I-49, US-71, US-84, LA-1, LA-6 |
| FIPS Code | 22-069 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 1,299 square miles (1,252 sq mi land, 47 sq mi water) |
| Adjacent Parishes (and Direction) | Bienville Parish (North), Winn Parish (Northeast), Grant Parish (East), Rapides Parish (Southeast), Vernon Parish (South), Sabine Parish (West), De Soto Parish (Northwest), Red River Parish (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| State | Louisiana |
| Coordinates | 31.7602° N, 93.0863° W |
| Major Landmarks | Cane River Creole National Historical Park, Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile, Natchitoches Historic District, Melrose Plantation, Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site |
| Population | Approximately 38,000 |
