Barataria Preserve (Jean Lafitte National Historical Park)
Boardwalk trails through cypress swamp just outside New Orleans put gators within easy view without a boat. The Bayou Coquille and Marsh Overlook trails are the most consistent, especially April through October. Alligators here are wild and unfed, so admire from the boardwalk rail, not the water's edge. Rangers lead free walks seasonally if you want a guide.
Know before you go
| Fee | Free (NPS unit, no entrance fee) |
|---|---|
| Parking | Visitor center lot off Hwy 45 |
| Water | — |
| Toilets | — |
| Access | Bayou Coquille and Palmetto Trail boardwalks |
| Surface | — |
| Hours | — |
| Operator | National Park Service |
| Website | nps.gov/jela/barataria-preserve |
Map
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Sourced from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
Last verified: July 18, 2026. See our methodology for how we score listings.