United States Louisiana Grosse Tete

Atchafalaya National Heritage Area

A unique region rich in cultural diversity, scenic landscapes, and historic waterways, recognized for conserving and promoting heritage.

Tips from the community

Filled with rich culture and ecology, Atchafalaya National Heritage Area is America’s largest freshwater swamp. With both Cypress and Tupelo swamps, the area is home to alligators, bears, raccoons, shrimp, catfish, oysters, crawfish, and over 270 species of birds. The surrounding area is filled with soaring cypress trees, ancient live oaks, and sugar cane and cotton fields. Stretching across 14 parishes throughout the state, the heritage area was first established in 2006. Today, the Atchafalaya region is home to a diverse population including the Cajun culture. Explore the swamps, rivers, bayous, and fields while visiting Atchafalaya National Heritage Area. As a valuable ecosystem, the continued protection and education of this heritage, culture, and environmental area would benefit many people and vulnerable species.

nicolejordan 2 years ago

Atchafalaya National Heritage Area Articles

  • America’s Next National Park? Top Contenders for 2023

    In 2019, White Sands National Park became America’s 62nd national park. Two years later, New River Gorge National Park became the nation’s 63rd. Now we’re all wondering: which park will take the title next? Lucky for us, the top contenders for America’s next national park include scenic national forests, ancient cultural sites, lazy rivers, and […]

    Read more...