10 Secluded Towns on Forgotten Crossroads in Louisiana’s Poverty Point Region

There are places where time isn’t measured in minutes but in the slow drift of cypress shadows, in the hush of cotton fields breathing under the Louisiana sun. The towns of the Poverty Point region sit at the intersection of history and silence, their streets empty but for the occasional truck passing by, their stories folded into the land itself. Here, civilization has always been something transient—mounds rising and vanishing, rail lines rusting into memory.

To live in these places is to belong to the landscape, to know that water dictates the rules, that levees and bayous hold secrets as deep as the ancient earthworks at Epps. The people who stay are keepers of a quiet gospel: the art of making do, of knowing what it means to be alone without being lonely.

There are almost no tourists here. Just a scattering of names on a map—Start, Transylvania, Oak Ridge—each with its own mythology, its own resistance to the modern world. These are places where the wind carries the past, and where, if you listen closely, you might just hear the voices of those who came before.

10. Start: Where Peaceful Living Begins

Start, a quaint unincorporated community in Richland Parish, is home to a close-knit population of around 1,000 residents who embrace the simplicity of rural life. The area is known for its rich farmland, with cotton and cornfields creating a patchwork across the landscape.

Visitors can enjoy the local charm by exploring country roads, attending church events, and experiencing the friendly atmosphere of small-town Louisiana. As the hometown of country music star Tim McGraw, Start holds a special place in the hearts of music lovers.

Its secluded nature stems from its distance from bustling urban centers, offering a serene environment where the loudest sounds are the rustling of leaves and the songs of birds. The absence of commercial developments ensures that Start retains its peaceful character, making it an ideal spot for those seeking respite from the fast pace of modern life.

Where is Start?

Located in northeastern Louisiana, Start lies along Interstate 20, approximately 12 miles east of Monroe. Despite its proximity to the interstate, Start maintains a quiet atmosphere, nestled among rolling fields and tranquil countryside. Its seclusion is enhanced by the expansive rural surroundings that buffer it from larger towns.

Travelers can reach Start by taking I-20 and exiting onto Louisiana Highway 133, then following local roads that wind through the picturesque farmland. Once there, visitors will feel a world away from the hustle and bustle, enveloped by the simplicity and charm of country living.

9. Transylvania: Mystery and Peace in East Carroll Parish

Nestled in the northeastern corner of Louisiana, Transylvania is a small community with a population of fewer than 800 residents. This rural village captivates visitors with its unique name and the quiet allure of its surroundings.

The area is predominantly agricultural, with vast fields of cotton and soybeans stretching toward the horizon. While there are no major tourist attractions, the charm of Transylvania lies in its peaceful streets and the opportunity to experience authentic rural life.

Its seclusion is a result of its remote location amid the Mississippi Delta’s flatlands, far from crowded cities and busy highways. For travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination, Transylvania offers a tranquil retreat infused with Southern hospitality.

Where is Transylvania?

Transylvania is located in East Carroll Parish, near the Mississippi River and the border with Arkansas. Its remote setting contributes to its sense of isolation, surrounded by miles of fertile farmland and meandering bayous.

To get there, travelers can take U.S. Highway 65 north from Tallulah, journeying through the serene landscapes of the Louisiana Delta. The drive itself, past expansive fields and under wide-open skies, underscores the secluded nature of this hidden gem.

Despite its mysterious name, inspired by the Transylvania Company that once owned land in the area, the community is warm and welcoming—a quiet haven away from the bustle of modern life.

8. Oak Ridge: Tranquility Amongst the Oaks

Oak Ridge, a charming village in Morehouse Parish, boasts a small population of around 140 residents. The town is aptly named for the majestic oak trees that line its streets, providing a picturesque canopy and a sense of timelessness.

Visitors can stroll through the quiet neighborhoods, appreciating the well-preserved historic homes that reflect the area’s rich heritage. The primary industry here revolves around agriculture and timber, with fields and forests contributing to the tranquil atmosphere.

Oak Ridge’s seclusion is a result of its location away from major highways and urban centers, enveloped by natural beauty that invites relaxation and reflection. The village offers a peaceful escape where the rhythms of nature set the pace of life.

Where is Oak Ridge?

Situated in northeastern Louisiana, Oak Ridge lies about 20 miles north of Monroe and is accessible via Louisiana Highway 134. Its secluded setting is enhanced by the surrounding countryside, characterized by rolling hills and dense woodlands. The absence of significant commercial development preserves the village’s quiet charm.

To reach Oak Ridge, travelers can take U.S. Highway 165 north from Monroe and then follow local roads that weave through scenic landscapes. The journey offers glimpses of rural Louisiana at its finest, leading to a destination where tranquility and natural beauty abound.

7. Baskin: Escape to a Slower Pace

Baskin is a small town in Franklin Parish with a population of approximately 250 residents who value the peacefulness of their rural community. The town features quiet streets lined with charming homes and a sense of camaraderie among neighbors.

Visitors can enjoy local eateries, explore nearby nature trails, or simply bask in the slower pace of life that defines the area. Agriculture is the mainstay of Baskin’s economy, with farming activities painting a bucolic backdrop to daily life.

Its seclusion comes from its modest size and the surrounding expanses of farmland, which create a buffer from the noise and stress of larger towns. Baskin offers a genuine slice of country living, where simple pleasures take center stage.

Where is Baskin?

Located in northeastern Louisiana, Baskin sits along U.S. Highway 425, roughly halfway between the cities of Winnsboro and Rayville. The town’s secluded nature is amplified by the vast agricultural fields and woodlands that envelop it, contributing to its quiet atmosphere.

Getting to Baskin is straightforward yet scenic, with highways that pass through quintessential Louisiana landscapes. Travelers will find that, upon arrival, the gentle rhythms of rural life provide a welcome respite from the hurried pace found elsewhere.

6. Mangham: Rural Living at Its Finest

Mangham, a village in Richland Parish, is home to around 700 residents who embrace the richness of rural living. The town exudes a strong sense of community, evident in local gatherings and school events that bring neighbors together. Visitors can explore quaint shops, enjoy Southern cooking at local diners, and participate in annual festivals that celebrate the area’s heritage.

Agriculture dominates the local economy, with cotton and corn fields highlighting the landscape. Mangham’s seclusion is due in part to its small size and the surrounding agricultural lands that stretch for miles. The village offers a welcoming environment where the simple joys of country life are cherished and shared.

Where is Mangham?

Mangham is situated in northeastern Louisiana, approximately 15 miles south of Rayville along Louisiana Highway 15. Its location amidst vast rural areas enhances its feeling of seclusion, providing a peaceful backdrop for residents and visitors alike.

The town is accessible via scenic routes that traverse through fertile farmland and gentle rolling terrain. For those seeking an authentic rural experience, Mangham is a destination where the journey is just as enjoyable as the arrival.

5. Mer Rouge: A Peaceful Pastoral Setting

Mer Rouge, a village in Morehouse Parish, boasts a population of around 600 residents who enjoy the tranquility of their pastoral surroundings. The town is characterized by its agricultural roots, with local farms producing rice, soybeans, and other crops that contribute to the region’s economy.

Visitors can admire the historical architecture, including well-preserved homes and buildings that reflect Mer Rouge’s rich past. The peaceful rural setting allows for leisurely activities like fishing, hiking, and bird-watching amid the lush landscapes.

Mer Rouge’s seclusion is a result of its location away from bustling cities and major thoroughfares, offering an environment where nature and community are deeply intertwined.

Where is Mer Rouge?

Located in northeastern Louisiana, Mer Rouge is accessible via U.S. Highway 165, approximately 10 miles north of Bastrop. The village’s secluded nature is enhanced by the surrounding farmland and wetlands that provide a serene and undisturbed environment.

Travelers can reach Mer Rouge by following scenic highways that meander through the heart of Louisiana’s agricultural regions. The journey offers an immersion into the state’s rural charm, culminating in a destination where peace and simplicity await.

4. Forest: Hidden Gem of West Carroll Parish

Forest is a small village in West Carroll Parish with a population of about 350 residents who value the intimacy of their close-knit community. The area is enveloped by untouched natural beauty, including forests, bayous, and rich wildlife habitats.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, and exploring the scenic countryside. The village’s main industries revolve around agriculture and forestry, reflecting a lifestyle that is deeply connected to the land.

Forest’s seclusion comes from its remote location and the vast natural areas that separate it from larger towns. This hidden gem offers a chance to reconnect with nature and experience the unspoiled landscapes of rural Louisiana.

Where is Forest?

Situated in northeastern Louisiana, Forest is accessible via Louisiana Highway 585, nestled between the towns of Oak Grove and Lake Providence. The village’s secluded nature is heightened by the extensive woodlands and waterways that surround it, providing a sanctuary for wildlife and a tranquil environment for residents.

To reach Forest, travelers can take U.S. Highway 17 or 65 and connect to local roads that weave through the picturesque terrain. The journey through dense forests and along serene bayous sets the stage for the peaceful retreat that awaits in Forest.

3. Kilbourne: Serenity on the State Line

Kilbourne, a village in West Carroll Parish, is home to approximately 400 residents who appreciate the serenity of their border-town community. Located near the Arkansas state line, Kilbourne is surrounded by expansive farmlands and open skies.

The primary industries are agriculture and farming, with crops like cotton and soybeans dominating the landscape. Visitors can enjoy the quiet ambiance, take leisurely drives through the countryside, and experience the warmth of a small-town welcome.

Kilbourne’s seclusion is due to its remote position at the northern edge of Louisiana, providing a peaceful haven away from crowded urban areas. The village embodies the essence of rural charm and simplicity.

Where is Kilbourne?

Kilbourne is located in the northeastern tip of Louisiana, right on the border with Arkansas. The village can be reached via Louisiana Highway 587, which connects to U.S. Highway 65. Its secluded setting is amplified by the surrounding agricultural lands and the sparse population density of the area.

The journey to Kilbourne offers a scenic passage through some of Louisiana’s most tranquil and unspoiled regions. Visitors crossing over from Arkansas or traveling up from southern parts of the state will find Kilbourne to be a restful stop where time slows down.

2. Pioneer: A Quiet Retreat Amidst Nature

Pioneer is a village in West Carroll Parish with a modest population of around 150 residents. The town is enveloped by lush forests and rural landscapes, creating a peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for nature lovers.

Outdoor activities abound, with opportunities for fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation in the nearby Poverty Point Reservoir State Park. Agriculture and forestry are central to the local economy, reflecting the residents’ strong connection to the land.

Pioneer’s seclusion stems from its small size and the dense natural surroundings that provide a buffer from the outside world. The village offers a quiet retreat where the beauty of nature can be fully appreciated.

Where is Pioneer?

Pioneer is situated in northeastern Louisiana and can be accessed via Louisiana Highway 17, approximately 20 miles north of Rayville. The village’s secluded nature is enhanced by the thick forests and waterways that characterize the region.

Travelers can reach Pioneer by taking scenic routes that highlight the area’s natural splendor, offering a peaceful journey toward this hidden destination. The isolation provided by the surrounding wilderness makes Pioneer an ideal spot for those seeking solace and a deep connection with the environment.

1. Epps: The Heart of Poverty Point

Epps, a small village in West Carroll Parish with a population of about 850 residents, is best known as the home of the Poverty Point World Heritage Site. This historic location features ancient earthworks dating back over 3,000 years, offering a rich cultural experience for visitors interested in archaeology and history.

Beyond the mounds, Epps provides a tranquil atmosphere with opportunities for fishing and picnicking at nearby lakes and parks. The village’s main industries are agriculture and tourism related to the heritage site.

Epps’s seclusion is derived from its rural setting and the vast expanses of farmland that surround it, allowing for an uninterrupted appreciation of both natural and historical wonders.

Where is Epps?

Located in northeastern Louisiana, Epps is accessible via U.S. Highway 80, approximately 30 miles east of Monroe. The village’s secluded charm is heightened by the surrounding fields and the sense of stepping back in time when visiting the Poverty Point site.

To get to Epps, travelers can follow I-20 to either Delhi or Rayville and then take local highways that lead through serene landscapes. The journey culminates in a destination where history and tranquility converge, offering an enriching and peaceful experience away from the noise of city life.