Avoyelles Parish

Avoyelles Parish is an administrative division in central eastern Louisiana along the Red River, extending across agricultural lands and waterways near the Atchafalaya River. The parish comprises eight municipalities, with Marksville serving as the administrative center and government services distributed across multiple districts.

The parish was established in 1807 and named after the Avoyel Native American tribe who lived in the region before European settlement arrived. This early founding reflects the deep indigenous roots of the area.

The Tunica-Biloxi Indian Tribe operates from a reservation in Marksville, running a casino while maintaining their traditions through ongoing cultural programs.

The area is well-suited for car exploration, with agricultural lands and river landscapes accessible from various roads throughout the parish. Visitors should keep in mind this is largely rural terrain, so plan accordingly for supplies and services.

Three large burial mounds from the Mississippian culture remain preserved in Marksville, dating back approximately 300 BC. These prehistoric sites reveal ancient settlements by sophisticated peoples who inhabited this region long before recorded history.

Location: Louisiana

Inception: March 31, 1807

Capital city: Marksville

Shares border with: LaSalle Parish, Catahoula Parish, Concordia Parish, West Feliciana Parish, Pointe Coupee Parish, St. Landry Parish, Evangeline Parish, Rapides Parish

Website: http://avoypj.org

GPS coordinates: 31.07000,-92.00000

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:05