Barataria Preserve Visitor Center

Barataria Preserve offers families an authentic Louisiana wetlands adventure with easy boardwalk trails perfect for little legs and wildlife spotting opportunities around every corner. Kids will be mesmerized watching alligators, turtles, and wading birds in their natural habitat while learning about this unique ecosystem through hands-on exhibits at the visitor center.

• ✓Spotting alligators sunbathing along the Bayou Coquille Trail boardwalk
• ✓Exploring elevated boardwalks that wind through cypress swamps without getting muddy
• ✓Hands-on educational exhibits about wetland ecosystems inside the air-conditioned visitor center
• ✓Earning Junior Ranger badges through fun activity booklets
• ✓Watching for native birds like herons, egrets, and ibis from observation platforms

1. 1.Arrive early (right at 9:30 AM opening) for the best wildlife viewing when animals are most active and before afternoon heat sets in
2. 2.Bring binoculars for kids to spot alligators and birds from safe distances on the boardwalks,it makes them feel like real explorers
3. 3.Download the free NPS app before visiting for self-guided tour information and to earn Junior Ranger badges
4. 4.Wear closed-toe water shoes or boots, especially after rain, as some trails can be muddy and wet
5. 5.Stop inside the visitor center first to check the wildlife sighting board so rangers can tell you where animals have been spotted that day

Visit Wednesday through Saturday mornings between 9:30-11:30 AM for cooler temperatures and active wildlife. Fall through spring (October-April) offers the most comfortable weather and fewer mosquitoes, with winter months providing the best alligator sightings along the boardwalks.

Admission is completely FREE as part of Jean Lafitte National Historical Park. Parking is plentiful and free at the visitor center, but there are no food concessions on-site, so pack snacks and plenty of water, especially during warm months.

Closed Mondays and Tuesdays year-round. Summer months (June-August) bring intense heat and humidity plus swarms of mosquitoes,spring and fall are ideal. Some trails may temporarily close after heavy rains or during high water periods, so call ahead during wet seasons.

Head to Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers (about 10 minutes away) for quick kid-friendly meals, or try The Cookery for casual Louisiana comfort food including kid favorites like fried shrimp and mac and cheese.