Barataria Preserve - 

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve

Barataria Preserve is home to 23,000 acres of hardwood forest, swamp, and marsh habitats; these habitats are home to the oldest remaining tracts of forests in Jefferson Parish. More than 400 species of plants can be found in the preserve, and both spring and fall seasons reward visitors with many wildflowers in bloom. Located squarely on the Mississippi Flyway, makes the preserve a birder's paradise where over 200 species of birds have been observed. In the swamp habitats, visitors will see giant old cypress trees. With an active research and citizen science program as well as a fascinating and well-maintained visitor center, Barataria Preserve offers great opportunities for learning about and experiencing firsthand southern Louisiana's native ecosystems.