Beauregard Parish: History, Museums, and Lakes

Beauregard Parish can be explored through a wide range of themes: a museum is housed in a depot built in 1926, historic buildings tell the story of the region, and a variety of recreational activities are available at Longville Lake. The annual calendar also features art events, theater, and festivals. As you plan your trip, it is worth choosing cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and event dates to suit your interests.

Museums and Historic Sites

The Beauregard Museum is housed in the second Kansas City Southern depot, built in 1926. Its collection includes handmade tools and artifacts from the timber industry, as well as historical photographs documenting the history of the parish. It also features Native American arrowheads and pottery, military memorabilia, antique furniture, musical instruments, and curiosities from Beauregard Parish. These objects cover a broad range of themes—from regional history and craftsmanship to everyday items and keepsakes.

The Beauregard Parish Courthouse was completed around 1915 and is part of DeRidder’s Historic Downtown District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The history of the courthouse and the designation of the entire historic district come together at this site. Those interested in architectural history can also visit the DeRidder USO Building in Beauregard Parish, also known as the War Memorial Civic Center. Completed in 1941, it was the first USO building in America located outside a military installation.

The DeRidder USO Building remains at its original location, with its exterior and interior largely unchanged. The artifacts on display there relate to DeRidder Army Air Base, Camp Polk, the Louisiana Maneuvers, and the USO. DeRidder’s historic Gothic Jail is open for tours on weekdays. Since tour availability should be confirmed before your trip, it is helpful to check in advance when planning your visit.

Merryville also offers connections to the past. The Merryville Museum was founded in 1981 to acquire, preserve, and maintain information, artifacts, and memorabilia related to the history of the United States. Its geographic focus extends from Merryville and Beauregard Parish to Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas. Burk’s Cabin was built in 1883, moved to Merryville, and fully restored. The Lois Loftin Doll Museum displays more than 4,000 dolls—a distinct focus alongside the regional history collections.

The site of Old Campground Cemetery features a memorial plaque and a nature trail. This brings together an interest in the cemetery site and a walk through nature. Visitors can consider these as two distinct interests rather than combining them into a single activity.

Lakes, Routes, and Events

Camping, fishing, swimming, walks, and picnicking are all possible at Longville Lake. Bundick Lake covers 1,750 acres. Those interested in regional routes can also explore the Myths & Legends Byway, which passes through areas of Beauregard, Vernon, and Allen Parishes. Its geographic reach therefore extends beyond a single parish.

Two festivals with different themes are part of the annual calendar. The Beauregard Watermelon Festival takes place every June and features watermelon games, other events, live music, and entertainment. The annual Beauregard Parish Fair is held during the first week of October at the Beauregard Parish Fairgrounds. It features a carnival, exhibits, food, and live bands. If you would like to plan your trip around either event, check the specific dates in advance.

DeRidder is also home to other cultural attractions. RealArt DeRidder’s calendar includes classes, workshops, and pop-up art market events; since the program may change, it is worth checking the latest dates. The Impromptu Players Community Theater produces three live plays each year, and performances are open to the public. For specific trip planning, the individual performance dates can help you schedule your visit around the theater program.

Discover more destinations: DeRidder, Webster, Washington, Assumption Parish, Union, Natchitoches Parish, West Baton Rouge Parish, Acadia.

For the broader travel overview: Louisiana.