Picnic area at Chalmette Battlefield, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

There are several picnicking spots at Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. All tables are taken on a first-come, first-served basis, and most of the locations have just one or two tables. Furthermore, there are no grills at any location. Only the picnic areas at Chalmette Battlefield and the Barataria Preserve are conducive to holding group events, but since nothing can be reserved in advance, make sure you get there first thing in the morning to grab the tables.

CHALMETTE BATTLEFIELD

The largest picnic area currently open (as of 9 / 2026) at Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is at Chalmette Battlefield. Seven tables are scattered underneath the Spanish-moss-covered live oak trees. They are newer tables and made of metal, so you don’t have to worry about any splinters. There is also a modern restroom facility next to the tables.

Picnic area at Chalmette Battlefield, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

Picnic area at Chalmette Battlefield, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

Restrooms at the picnic area beside Chalmette Battlefield, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

BARATARIA PRESERVE

There is a large picnic area at the Barataria Preserve, but due to damage from Hurricane Ida in 2021, it and the rest of the trails and facilities are closed. The National Park Service hopes everything will be repaired by the end of 2028. Only the Twin Canals Trail is currently open (as of 9 / 2026) in the Preserve.

PRAIRIE ACADIAN CULTURAL CENTER

There is one table out front of the Prairie Acadian Cultural Center in Eunice, Louisiana. It is right next to the pavement, so it is fairly wheelchair accessible. For additional seating, there is a covered patio with a bench next to the entrance. Restrooms are available inside the cultural center whenever it is open.

Picnic table at the Prairie Acadian Cultural Center, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

ACADIA CULTURAL CENTER

There are four tables on an open field at the Acadian Cultural Center in Lafayette, Louisiana. One table near the parking lot is wheelchair accessible.

Picnic area at the Acadian Cultural Center, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

Wheelchair accessible table at the Acadian Cultural Center, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

WETLANDS ACADIAN CULTURAL CENTER

There is one table at the rear of the Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center in Thibodaux, Louisiana. It is situated under some shade trees on the grass and is not wheelchair accessible. Friendly warning though—it is slightly covered in moss if that is an issue for you. Restrooms are available inside the cultural center whenever it is open.

Picnic table at the Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

TWIN LAKES TRAIL IN THE BARATARIA PRESERVE

There is one table at the trailhead for the Twin Canals Trail in the Barataria Preserve. It is situated on a concrete slab overlooking the canal waters. The table is older and made of wood, so be sure to watch out for splinters. There are no restroom facilities available.

Picnic table at the Twin Canals Trail, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

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