Natchitoches is the oldest community within the Louisiana Purchase, but the town's history dates back to before 1691, when Canary Islanders moved to this area from Mexico. Explorers traded with Caddo, Cocinthés, and Pani Native Americans, with both sides remaining friendly to each other. While the region originally belonged to France, Spain administered this area, and farmers grew large tobacco crops. By 1820, the community had become the largest in the state west of the Mississippi River. You will want to visit Cane River Creole National Historical Park to learn more.
Napoleon sold the Louisiana Purchase area to the U.S. government in 1803, and it took the residents of Natchitoches a while to acclimate to America's culture. The government built Fort Claiborne in 1804 in Natchitoches and replaced it a few years later with Fort Jesup, located seven miles west of town. While using the fort as a base of operations to explore Spanish Texas, one local project completed was the removal of a 100-mile-long logjam, which had made boat travel north of Natchitoches nearly impossible. The removal had the unintended consequence of rerouting the Red River away from the city and made steamboat travel impossible, except during times of high water. The removal of the logs created Cane River Lake, a fantastic place to go boating, fishing, and paddling.
Troops ravaged Natchitoches during the Civil War, and low cotton prices made it difficult for plantation owners to recover. In addition to visiting the Cane River Creole National Historical Park, you will want to visit the Natchitoches Historic District on the west bank of the Cane River. Shopping is terrific in this area. In particular, you will want to explore the Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile store, which Jewish-Prussian immigrants established in 1863. Nearby, you will find Lasyone's Meat Pie Restaurant. The folded in half meat pies at this restaurant were developed in 1958 and have delighted many diners, including the stars of Steel Magnolias, which was filmed entirely in this community of about 37,000 people.
Cane River Zydeco Festival & Poker Run – Head to the historical downtown area to enjoy live bands or participate in the poker run during this August festival.
Adai Caddo Indian Nation's Annual Pow Wow - Tribes from Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas perform traditional dances during this October festival held at the Adai Caddo Indian Nation Cultural Center.
Christmas Festival of Lights – Watch the Christmas parade, join in the fun run and shop with art and food vendors during this December festival in the historic district.
If you plan to explore sites near Natchitoches, Louisiana RVs from RVshare can offer more comfort than a hotel room and allows you to save money on eating at restaurants.Natchitoches is an alluring city in Louisiana that attracts visitors with its exquisite architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. The city has been featured in Hollywood movies and TV shows, showcasing its unique beauty.Cane River Creole National Historical Park is a must-visit destination for history buffs. This park contains several beautifully preserved historic plantations and buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, offering visitors a glimpse into the past of this region of Louisiana. Take a tour and learn about the people who worked and lived on these plantations.Sports fans will enjoy visiting the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame. This museum showcases Louisiana's rich sports heritage through interactive exhibits, including memorabilia displays and information about famous athletes who hailed from this state.Oakland Plantation is another great historical attraction in Natchitoches. The plantation has been restored to its original condition, allowing visitors to see what life was like for the people who lived on this estate during the 19th century.Stroll along Front Street in downtown Natchitoches to admire the beautiful historic buildings that line this street. You'll also find unique shops selling local crafts, art galleries displaying works by local artists, and restaurants serving delicious Cajun cuisine.
Motorhomes are divided into Class A, B, and C vehicles. On average expect to pay $185 per night for Class A, $149 per night for Class B and $179 per night for Class C. Towable RVs include 5th Wheel, Travel Trailers, Popups, and Toy Hauler. On average, in Natchitoches, LA, the 5th Wheel trailer starts at $70 per night. Pricing for the Travel Trailer begins at $60 per night, and the Popup Trailer starts at $65 per night.
Do you need to be a certain age to rent an RV in Natchitoches?Yes. The minimum age is 25 to be eligible to get an RV Rental in Natchitoches from RVshare.
Does RVshare have emergency roadside assistance?Yes. Every RV rental booked through RVshare receives 24/7 emergency roadside assistance.
Does RVshare offer one way RV rentals in Natchitoches?Yes. Prior to renting any RV, check with the owner since not all will offer this particular option.