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Cane River Creole National Historical Park Sign

How to Plan a Family Trip with Teens to Cane River Creole National Historical Park

Families with teens seeking a meaningful and enriching experience steeped in history should look no further than the Cane River National Heritage Area. 

This breathtaking location is home to some of Louisiana’s important historical sites, including the Cane River Creole National Historical Park Units – Oakland and Magnolia Plantations. This guide includes a bit of the area’s history, things to do in the area, tips, and ideas to help you plan a successful trip with your teens. 

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Woman Reading Sign at Oakland Plantation
Informative signage at Oakland Plantation

Visiting Oakland Plantation and Magnolia Plantation provide visitors with an understanding of the distinct culture that developed along the Cane River. These historic sites, as well as others in Natchitoches Parish and surrounding areas, are steeped in the area’s African American and Creole history and culture.  

Today both plantations are managed by the National Park Service and offer visitors a view of Southern plantation life focused on the lives and traditions of the people who lived there.

Cane River National Heritage Area Map

About Cane River National Heritage Area 

The Cane River National Heritage Area encompasses 116,000 acres (about 35 miles) of land along the banks of the Cane River.  This river was once a major transportation corridor used to move goods and supplies throughout the early 19th century.  

Today the river and Cane River Lake in Natchitoches provide many recreational activities for visitors to the area.

In partnership with the National Park Service, the heritage area protects, preserves, and promotes the history and culture of Cane River from colonial times to today’s present day. You’ll find educational programming such as guided tours, living history demonstrations, and special programs for children throughout the region.

The History of Cane River Creole NHP

Before deciding what activities you’ll do here, it’s important to consider the history of the park. Cane River Creole National Historical Park is made up of two plantations in Natchitoches Parish: Oakland Plantation and Magnolia Plantation (excluding the Magnolia Main House which is privately owned). 

Slave Quarters Oakland Plantation
Slave quarters that would later be tenant housing at Oakland Plantation

The two plantations represent two of the most intact French Creole cotton plantations in the country. Magnolia began in the mid-18th century and Oakland dates back to a land grant given to the Prud’homme family in 1789.

Both plantations were passed down through generations of the same family and survived the Civil War. Today, visitors can still see parts of the original buildings, as well as a number of outbuildings including enslaved quarters. There are over 60 historic structures in total that represent over 200 years of the area’s history. 

Visiting the Plantations

There is some debate about visiting plantations with children.  However, the park service has developed activities and programs tailored to all ages that provide an understanding of the history without glorifying it. 

Oakland Plantation - Cane River Creole National Park
Side view of the front entrance of Oakland Plantation

At Oakland Plantation, visitors can take a guided tour of the grounds and outbuildings Wednesday through Saturday at 9 am. Visitors can take self-guided tours of the Oakland Main House on Saturday and Sunday between 10 am to 2 pm. 

I appreciated that at Oakland the entrance to the property was through the back of the main house. This was done intentionally to honor the enslaved people who worked at the plantation.

Magnolia Plantation

Magnolia Plantation offers a guided tour of the grounds and outbuildings Wednesday through Saturday at 2:30 pm. There is also an outdoor interpretive experience where you can view the carriage house, slave/tenant farmers’ quarters, blacksmith shop, overseer’s house, and former slave hospital.

The Oakland Plantation Store is the main visitor center. Visitors are encouraged to ask questions, observe and appreciate the plantation’s history making it a great learning experience for all ages. 

Which plantation is the better choice for teens?

Both of these sites offer something unique and special. Oakland Plantation provides a more in-depth look at the Creole culture on the Cane River as it included the main house.  Magnolia Plantation, on the other hand, offers more of an outdoor experience with its interpretive tour and exhibits. 

You can visit both plantations in a single day as they are located near each other. This can be a great way to experience the area, especially if you have teens. They’ll be able to learn about history while also having an outdoor adventure. 

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How to Plan a Family Trip to Cane River Creole National Park Site

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the park is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the park’s natural beauty is at its peak. Admission is free to visit the park.

Park Hours Open daily from 9 am to 3:30 pm Oakland and Magnolia Plantation’s grounds, trails, and visitor restrooms. 

Note the original outbuildings are open Wednesday through Sunday. Self-guided tours of the main house at Oakland are available from 10 am to 2 pm on weekends. 

Getting to the Park

The best way to get to the park is to drive.  From Natchitoches,  take LA-1 S to LA-LA-119 S/LA-494 W and follow it all the way to Oakland Plantation.  Magnolia Plantation is just a few minutes away from Oakland on LA-119 S.

Addresses

Oakland Plantation – 4386 Highway 494, Natchez, LA 71456 

Magnolia Plantation – 5549 Highway, 119, Cloutierville, LA 71416 

Cane River National Heritage Area - Junior Ranger National Park books

Tips For Planning a Trip With Teens

When planning your family trip with teens, there are some things you should consider. 

  1. Do some research before you go so that everyone is aware of the park’s history and the significance of visiting a plantation.
  2. Consider packing snacks as there are no restaurants in the immediate area. 
  3. Bring comfortable shoes, hats, and sunscreen for outdoor exploring. 
  4. Pick up a Junior Park Ranger Booklet at either property for kids or the family to complete and receive a badge. Don’t forget your park booklet stamp! 
  5. Be sure to check out the things to do near me in Natchitoches to add some additional activities to your trip! 
  6. Plan a visit to the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum located in Natchitoches. Upstairs, they have a great exhibit on the Cane River Creole National Park. 
  7. Book accommodations in Natchitoches for easy access to the park and a variety of food options.
  8. Another well-preserved plantation home is Melrose Plantation, a National Historic Landmark less than 10 minutes from the park. This privately owned site was the home of the famed folk artist Clementine Hunter that depicted plantation life in her work. 

Visiting the Cane River Creole National Park with teens can be an enriching and educational experience for all ages. With a little bit of research, planning and preparation you can create an amazing trip that your family will never forget! 

Whether you’re interested in exploring these historic plantations, walking around the plantation grounds, learning about the area’s history, or just getting out to visit a national park during your road trip, this is the perfect destination for a family trip. 

With a little preparation and planning, you can make sure everyone in your group has an enjoyable and educational experience.  So get ready to explore the Cane River Creole National Park with your teens! 

For more destination ideas in Louisiana and Louisiana recipes, see:

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About Nicky Omohundro

Nicky Omohundro is a travel and active family lifestyle blogger and social media influencer based out of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She shares stories, destinations, and ideas on food, family, health, and outdoor recreation to help families find their own adventures. Her spirit animal is a caffeinated squirrel fueled by coffee, real food, and the desire to seek new adventures.

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