Top Things to Do in Morehouse Parish
Up in north Louisiana, not far from Monroe, you'll find charming Morehouse Parish and the Bastrop Main Street Community. Check out the best things to do in the area!
1. Chemin-A-Haut State Park
Chemin-A-Haut State Park in Bastrop is a haven for lovers of the outdoors. The kiddos will enjoy two playgrounds, and the whole family can beat the heat in the swimming complex. Grill up some grub in the picnic area that includes plenty of grills and picnic tables. For the adventurous, paddle over to the “Castle Tree” – a massive, centuries-old cypress like you’ve never seen. Wondering where to lay your head? This park offers RV and tent camping, plus cozy waterfront cabins.
2. Snyder Museum
Born in Russia, Charles Snyder came to Morehouse Parish in 1899. From a humble start as a dry goods merchant, he built his business into the largest retail department store in the area and became a prominent local figure. The 1929 home of Charles and Esther Snyder was developed into the Snyder Museum and Art Center by the Morehouse Historical Society in 1972. In addition to the original home, The Carriage House on the property includes a permanent exhibit of historic farm implements, a horse-drawn hearse, and a country store. Learn about the area’s history through the Timeline exhibit that depicts the story of Morehouse Parish through vintage photos and artifacts, or through the Genealogy Room, which displays genealogical records, maps, diaries, historical publications and archival records.
3. Bussey Brake Wildlife Management Area
Bussey Brake reservoir was constructed in the late 1950s and provided a tremendous fishery for many years. Now, the 2,600-acre Bussey Brake Wildlife Management Area features a launch for kayaks, a boat dock and three fishing piers - welcoming visitors to cast a line for largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill and red-ear sunfish. Plus, an 8-mile trail is available for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Birding enthusiasts will also love Bussey Brake as it is ideal for birdwatching, especially for waterfowl in the winter.
4. Paddling Bayou Bartholomew
Bayou Bartholomew is the longest bayou in the world, meandering approximately 364 miles between Arkansas and Louisiana. Bayou Bartholomew is a classic mixed cypress/hardwood bayou and can be explored by paddlers of easy, moderate or advanced skill levels depending on weather conditions and water levels. The bayou also features a rich fish habitat with more than 100 species.
5. Morehouse May Madness
The Morehouse May Madness Street Festival celebrates Morehouse Parish in historic downtown Bastrop. This family-friendly festival features an art exhibit, motorcycle and classic car exhibits, live entertainment, a kid zone with games, farmers market activities, and merchant and food vendors. It’s the perfect summer activity to check out and explore this charming town.
6. Shopping
Partake in retail therapy at Natures Hideaway Gardens & Barnmarket, offering anything you can imagine for home and garden décor. Peruse the storefront and the eclectic gardens for vintage and handmade goodies galore. Nearby, The Market antique mall has everything from clothing, repurposed art and tchotchkes, kitchen items, home furnishings and more.
7. Good Eats
After a day of activities, fill up at one of Bastrop and North Louisiana’s favorite Italian eateries – Roma Italian Bistro. Choose from an array of options like New York-style pizzas, house specialty pasta, calzones, and entrees like chicken parmigiana and veal marsala. Over at the popular Fiesta Linda Mexican Restaurant, dive into large portions of Mexican dishes with great margaritas in a fun and festive atmosphere.
Stop by the Bastrop Visitor Center for more information and must-do activities in the area.