The Mansfield Female College Museum offers an unusual way to explore De Soto’s history: it was the first college for women west of the Mississippi.
Traces of history
Keachi Presbyterian Church was built in the Greek Revival style in 1858 and added to the National Register of Historic Places on June 30, 1988. Rock Chapel was built by Carmelite monks who traveled to DeSoto Parish from West Texas. At Ferguson Cemetery, Moses Rose Grave is considered the resting place of Louis Moses Rose, believed to be the only known survivor of the Alamo. These places reflect different historical themes: education, architectural history, and remembrance.
Mansfield State Historic Site also offers several ways to explore history: living history events, exhibits, battle reenactments, and interpretive programs. The program varies by year. If you would like to plan your visit around an event, check the dates in advance.
The Battle of Pleasant Hill Reenactment recreates the April 9, 1864, battle between Union and Confederate forces on the actual battlefield. The event weekend also includes educational programs and family-friendly activities; dates and programming vary by year. The focus here is on the portrayal of a specific historical event, while buildings and museums convey other aspects of history.
Pine forests and activities
The pine forests of DeSoto Parish offer opportunities for hiking, cycling, ATV riding, and birdwatching. These offer different ways to experience the landscape: getting active on trails and observing birds. Depending on the course layout, the track at Desoto Motorsport Park is 1 to 1.4 miles long.
Freshwater fishing is another option in DeSoto Parish. Species mentioned include largemouth bass, white bass, sand bass, crappie, bream, and catfish. Activities differ not only in focus, but also in whether you want to spend time in the pine forests or fishing.
Along the Sabine River in Logansport
Dennis Freeman Memorial River Park offers several ways to enjoy the river, with specific points of interest: a 1,000-foot boardwalk runs along the Sabine River and leads to an overlook. There is also a walking path within the park grounds. The River Stage hosts band performances, film screenings, pageants, gospel singing, and other events; programming varies.
There are three designated boat launches near Logansport’s riverfront. If you plan to use one, check current conditions in advance. Events also shape the area: the annual Barber Sand Bass Tournament starts at Dennis Freeman Memorial River Park in Logansport. The annual River City Fest is held on the banks of the Sabine River at Dennis Freeman Riverfront Memorial Park. Dates and programming may vary; check them if you plan to attend either festival.
Putting De Soto in context
As a regional reference point, De Soto Parish is about 35 miles south of downtown Shreveport via Highway 171 and about 35 miles north of Natchitoches via Interstate 49. These are approximate road distances and may vary depending on the route.
The different attractions offer starting points for planning your trip: historic sites, activities in the pine forests, freshwater fishing, or experiences along the riverfront. If you’re looking for a hotel in De Soto, it may help to first consider which of these experiences you want to shape your trip.
Discover more destinations: Stonewall, St. Landry Parish, Franklin, East Baton Rouge Parish, Lafayette County, Washington, Union, Calcasieu Parish
For the broader travel overview: Louisiana.
