Plaquemines Parish Between Marshland and History

The Mississippi River runs through Plaquemines Parish for its final 70 miles before reaching the Gulf of Mexico. Orange groves and oyster boats share the landscape with marshes, swamps and barrier islands. This mix brings together agriculture, waterways and wetlands, offering a range of themes for a stay. The view from the road is part of the picture, too: Highway 23 runs between old Virginia oaks and protective levees.

History Among the Fortifications

Fort Jackson was built in 1822 on the recommendation of General Andrew Jackson. During the American Civil War, it served as an important defensive installation for New Orleans. Fort St. Philip was the site of a 12-day siege during the Civil War in April 1862. The fort is privately owned and accessible only by boat or helicopter.

Fort De La Boulaye takes you further back: built in 1700, the French colonial fortification is one of three U.S. National Historic Landmarks in Plaquemines Parish. Together, the forts reveal different chapters in the parish’s history, from the French colonial period to the Civil War.

Marshland, Wetlands and Wildlife

The Delta National Wildlife Refuge offers lush marsh habitats for a wide variety of wildlife and is accessible only by boat. Plaquemines Parish ecotours may offer sightings of American alligators, peregrine falcons and sandpipers, though sightings are possible but not guaranteed.

Guided wetland excursions can take place by kayak, airboat, canoe or motorboat. The different modes of transport set these tours apart. Louisiana Marsh Tours offers private tours through marshes, swamps and wetlands. Confirm operating details before your trip.

Fishing by Water Type

If you want to compare fishing options, start by distinguishing the type of water. Fishing charters in Plaquemines Parish are available for catching redfish or trout. Offshore fishing includes species such as tuna, wahoo, marlin and swordfish. Freshwater anglers will find a different range of species, including largemouth bass, sunfish and catfish. Charter fishing, offshore fishing and freshwater fishing are distinct approaches, rather than options grouped under a single term.

Seafood and Festivals

Local cuisine also makes the most of nearby waters. Restaurants in Plaquemines Parish serve fish, shrimp, crab and oysters freshly caught in local bays and marshes. The Plaquemines Parish Seafood Festival takes place annually, bringing together local seafood, live music, carnival rides and family activities.

The Plaquemines Parish Orange Festival offers another link to regional agriculture. It was established in 1946 to promote the parish’s citrus growing and marketing. The annual Croatian Festival takes place in spring. If attending a festival is part of your trip, check the specific event dates in advance.

When choosing a hotel, start with the purpose of your trip: history, fishing, wetland tours and festivals each lead to different daily itineraries. Check the location of a specific property in relation to the activities you have planned.

Discover more destinations: Belle Chasse, Empire, Calcasieu Parish, Orleans, Ascension Parish, St. Martin Parish, Caddo, Ouachita.

For the broader travel overview: Louisiana.