RV Rentals Ruston, Louisiana

Explore Ruston, Louisiana, in an RVshare RV Rental

Ruston is the country seat of Lincoln Parish. The parish was formed as the United States started rebuilding after the Civil War. The parish's sheriff, Robert E. Russ, gave 634 acres for the town to begin, and the city is named after a shortened version of Russ Town. Soon the Vicksburg, Shreveport, and Pacific Railroad arrived, and it was much easier for local farmers to get their cotton to markets in the northern United States. A second railroad line came in Ruston in 1901. Learn more about the region's history by heading to Dubach to visit the Autrey House Museum, the oldest log cabin in the area. 

Louisiana Tech University was formed in 1894 as the Industrial Institute and College of Louisiana and drew many to the area. Following the Civil War, it became the third research university in the South devoted to educating students. Francis P. Stubbs donated 20 acres to build the university, and Colonel Arthur T. Prescott was installed as the college's first president. You may want to stroll across this beautiful campus and watch a game at Joe Aillet Stadium. 

During World War II, Ruston became home to one of the largest POW camps in the United States. Over 4,315 prisoners were held at this camp. They came from various European countries, including France, Austria, Italy, Czechoslovakia, Poland, Yugoslavia, Romania, and Russia. Many found conditions in Ruston better than conditions in their homeland. Some of the buildings from the camp still stand near the West Campus area of Grambling State University while Louisiana Tech University has many items from Camp Ruston in Wyly Tower. 

Ruston still has deep agricultural roots, including the largest peach orchard in the state. The orchard was established in 1946 by J.E. Mitcham, and you will want to visit their store and other small businesses in the historic downtown area. You can find terrific places to eat in Ruston. For a taste of real Louisiana cuisine, head to Ben Christmas Crawfish or find a fantastic steak at Beau Vines Steakhouse. You can find outstanding barbecue at many locations, including Bad Wolf BBQ. 

Upcoming Events in Ruston, Louisiana

• Krewe of Allegro Mardi Gras Ball and Silent Auction – In February, celebrate Mardi Gras in Ruston with a parade, dance, and the royal court's crowning during this upcoming event. 

• Railroad Festival – Celebrate the importance of the railroad to Ruston in April at this downtown festival featuring live bands and food vendors. 

• Louisiana Peach Festival – Bring your best peach desserts and other goodies to this June festival and have them judged or bring your appetite and eat the various peach-inspired foods. There will be arts and crafts, music, and family fun. 

• ARToberfest – Sip local brews and see art at this two-day festival held in October.