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Barataria Preserve

Barataria, Louisiana · Jefferson County · Facility

With more than 26,000 acres of wild Louisiana wetlands, the Barataria Preserve's hardwood forest, swamp, bayous, and marsh offer trails, picnic areas, fishing, hunting (in season and with permits), and wildlife viewing. Visitor center films and exhibits explain the wetlands habitat and current environmental challenges;…

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29.78395, -90.11553
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5-Day Forecast

Weather at Barataria Preserve

Live forecast for the park. Plan your visit accordingly.

Avg High84°F
Avg Low75°F
Peak Rain Chance74%
Humidity86%
UV (avg)5
Air Quality31 · Good
Today
☁️
Overcast
88°/77°
💧 5%🌬 12mph
↑ 6:53 AM ↓ 6:45 PM
Fri
☁️
Overcast
88°/74°
💧 14%🌬 11mph
↑ 6:54 AM ↓ 6:44 PM
Sat
🌧
Rain Showers
80°/75°
💧 53%🌬 10mph
↑ 6:54 AM ↓ 6:43 PM
Sun
⛈
Thunderstorm
80°/75°
💧 74%🌬 7mph
↑ 6:55 AM ↓ 6:42 PM
Mon
🌧
Heavy Drizzle
83°/74°
💧 43%🌬 8mph
↑ 6:56 AM ↓ 6:40 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Barataria Preserve

With more than 26,000 acres of wild Louisiana wetlands, the Barataria Preserve's hardwood forest, swamp, bayous, and marsh offer trails, picnic areas, fishing, hunting (in season and with permits), and wildlife viewing. Visitor center films and exhibits explain the wetlands habitat and current environmental challenges; ranger programs are offered daily. Admission to the preserve and to most programs is free.

Photos

How to Get There

The Barataria Preserve is located 17 miles south of New Orleans on the west bank of the Mississippi River; Barataria Blvd./Highway 45 runs through the preserve. Note that not all GPS systems find the preserve successfully, so double check your GPS against a map. The Visitor Center is located just off of Highway 45.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Barataria Preserve

Heading to Barataria Preserve? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Barataria Preserve?

No central reservation system listed for Barataria Preserve. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/258931) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Barataria Preserve?

The Barataria Preserve is located 17 miles south of New Orleans on the west bank of the Mississippi River; Barataria Blvd./Highway 45 runs through the preserve. Note that not all GPS systems find the preserve successfully, so double check your GPS against a map. The Visitor Center is located just off of Highway 45.

How do I contact Barataria Preserve?

You can reach the park at phone: (504) 689-3690 or email: [email protected].