Atchafalaya National Heritage Area | America's French Foreign Country

The Great Lazy River

The Atchafalaya is Culture, Tourism, Nature
and So Much More!

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Welcome to the Atchafalaya

It’s not a swamp. It’s a whole new country!

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It’s so big - and full!

Birding, Biking, Paddling, Camping, Hunting,
Fishing, Golf and Tree Tagging!

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To infinity, and beyond!

The Atchafalaya National Heritage Area Stretches far...
Well into the Gulf of Mexico!

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National Heritage Area

Welcome to the Atchafalaya

In the heart of Louisiana lies a vast natural wonder with a storied past. Welcome to America’s largest freshwater swamp: the Atchafalaya River Basin. From upland forests, to Cypress/Tupelo swamps, to an active land-building river delta, the Atchafalaya has lots to see. How you explore America’s Foreign Country…that’s up to you!

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Action In the Swamp

Events Calendar

Meetings, festivals, tours through the marsh and much more can be found here...
below are the ones coming up next!

La Fete Des Vieux Temps

Called the "Festival of Old Times" this event features a celebration of music, dancing, Cajun food, and arts & crafts show. This long standing event is a local favorite and showcases the true authentic Cajun culture of Lafourche Parish

October 02, 2026

4484 Highway 1, Raceland, LA 70394

Atchafalaya National Heritage Area Day

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

You're invited! Please join us to celebrate the 20th anniversary of federal designation for the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area. Immerse yourself in the swamp and experience our natural beauty and rich culture.

October 03, 2026

1337 Henderson Levee Rd, Henderson, La 70517

Festivals Acadiens et Créoles

Lafayette, LA's annual Festivals Acadiens et Créoles, held the second full weekend in October, provides the ideal opportunity to discover Lafayette, LA's blend of food, music and culture that makes the city so unique. Since 1974 this free festival has of

October 09, 2026

Girard Park, Lafayette

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Explore Our Website

What’s Inside!

Our website is packed with information to help you schedule school tours, learn about the wetlands, or find out more about the cultures of Louisiana. Below are just some of the great things we invite you to investigate...