The best camping near Cane River Creole National Historical Park

Take a journey back into the past when you visit the plantation house and grounds at this national historical park. Since this plantation spent eight generations, everything is beautifully preserved. You can learn a lot about how farms were run over the last couple of centuries and see the types of equipment used. Don't miss the fully restored cottages to get a glimpse of life in the 19th century. Watch out for the fire ant hills that pop up from time to time on the property.

Getting here requires a bit of sleuthing, as the signage is minimal, but it's all free (yes, even the parking). Time your visit for one of the two tours inside the big house that are offered daily. (You can enter other buildings, including the slave quarters, at any time the park's open.) Yes, there's cell service—and even better, you can download a self-guided tour on your phone.

If you're exploring other Creole homes and plantations in the area, check out the Hipcamps north toward Shreveport and south toward Lafayette. There are plenty of spots to pitch a tent or hook up an RV alongside a river or nestled in beautiful pine woods.