Bastrop

Founded in 1852, Bastrop is the parish seat of Morehouse Parish in northeastern Louisiana. Originally settled by Dutch émigré Baron De Bastrop, the town has grown into a proud community with a strong agricultural and timber-based economy. Its downtown features a collection of well-preserved historic buildings, including the Morehouse Parish Courthouse, which anchors the city’s charming square. Bastrop’s cultural heart is also seen in the Snyder Museum and Creative Arts Center, where local heritage, visual art, and educational exhibits come together to celebrate regional identity.

The town’s legacy is tied to cotton production, railroads, and lumber mills, all of which shaped its early economy. Today, Bastrop continues to honor these roots through community festivals and museums that highlight its economic transformation. Parks such as Dotson Park and Chemin-A-Haut State Park provide residents with outdoor recreation, hiking trails, and waterfront access to Bayou Bartholomew—the longest bayou in the world. Families enjoy local sports programs, farmers markets, and civic events that unite the community throughout the year.

Bastrop also supports several strong public schools and is home to generations of families that have built lives here for more than a century. With a friendly atmosphere, rich historical significance, and scenic beauty, Bastrop captures the best of rural Louisiana while providing a sense of place and permanence that continues to draw newcomers and welcome visitors. Whether you’re exploring history or enjoying outdoor fun, Bastrop offers a small-town experience rooted in heritage and pride.