Ouachita Parish

Ouachita Parish is an administrative area in northern Louisiana that encompasses two major population centers, Monroe and West Monroe, separated by the Ouachita River. The region covers a substantial area of land in the state's northeastern section.

The parish was established in 1807 and named after the Ouachita Native American people who originally inhabited the river valley. This naming reflects the indigenous roots that shaped the landscape and culture of the region.

The Watson Brake mound complex within the parish stands as North America's earliest known indigenous earthwork construction, dating from 3500 BCE.

The two main cities are well connected by roads, making it straightforward to navigate the parish. Plan to explore both sides of the river to get a complete sense of the area's geography and communities.

The parish experienced a notable population surge between 1920 and 1930, with an increase of 79 percent due to employment opportunities.

Location: Louisiana

Inception: 1807

Capital city: Monroe

Shares border with: Union Parish, Morehouse Parish, Richland Parish, Caldwell Parish, Jackson Parish, Lincoln Parish

Website: https://oppj.org

GPS coordinates: 32.48000,-92.16000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:01