Cities and Towns in Allen Parish, Louisiana

Founded in 1912, Allen Parish is one of 64 parishes in the state of Louisiana. Historically, Allen Parish was formed from part of Calcasieu Parish. The city of Oberlin is the parish seat. With FIPS code of 3, Allen Parish has a population of 22,687 and area of 766 square miles (1,984 km²).

List of all cities in Allen Parish, LA alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Beaver, LA	71463	318
Bond, LA	71463	318
Elizabeth, LA	70638	318
Grant, LA	70644	337
Kinder, LA	70648	337
Leblanc, LA	70651	337
Mittie, LA	70654	337
Oakdale, LA	71463	318
Oberlin, LA	70655	337
Reeves, LA	70658	337
Ward, LA	71463	318

Major Cities and Towns in Allen Parish, Louisiana

Oakdale

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 4.7 square miles
• Population: 7,780 (as of 2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 71463
• Latitude: 30.8163° N
• Longitude: 92.6607° W

Location and History

Oakdale is located in the eastern part of Allen Parish, approximately 40 miles south of Alexandria, Louisiana, along U.S. Route 165. Originally established as a railroad town in the early 1900s, Oakdale played a significant role in the lumber industry, benefitting from the rich pine forests that surround the area. The town was named after the many oak trees that once lined the landscape. During its early years, Oakdale thrived as a center of commerce and transportation for nearby farms and timber operations. Its growth was tied to the development of the railroads, and later the presence of sawmills and factories helped shape its economy. Today, Oakdale is a small but resilient community that honors its heritage with annual events and festivals celebrating its past.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Oakdale is served by Oakdale High School, Oakdale Middle School, and Oakdale Elementary School. These schools provide education for the town’s youth and are part of the Allen Parish School Board. One of the most significant landmarks is the Oakdale Federal Correctional Institution, which provides jobs for many locals. The town also has Oakdale Park, a popular site for outdoor activities, and nearby is the Louisiana Maneuvers and Military Museum, which commemorates the area’s role in military training during World War II.

Oberlin

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 1.9 square miles
• Population: 1,770 (as of 2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 70655
• Latitude: 30.6196° N
• Longitude: 92.7632° W

Location and History

Oberlin, the seat of Allen Parish, is located near the geographic center of the parish, approximately 15 miles south of Oakdale. The town was named after a minister, John Frederick Oberlin, and was incorporated in 1900. Oberlin developed around the farming and logging industries, with the surrounding land providing rich soil for agriculture and abundant timber resources. During the early 20th century, sawmills and farming attracted settlers, contributing to the town’s growth. Despite its small size, Oberlin holds an important place in the history of Allen Parish, serving as a center for local government and a hub for local commerce. Today, Oberlin maintains its rural charm while supporting the agricultural community around it.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Oberlin is home to Oberlin High School, Oberlin Elementary School, and a number of small private schools. The Allen Parish Courthouse is one of the key landmarks in the town, as it serves as the center of government for the parish. Additionally, Oberlin has several parks, including Memorial Park, which offers a space for community events and recreation. Another landmark is the Oberlin Museum, which showcases local history, including artifacts related to the region’s Native American heritage and the early settlers who established the town.

Kinder

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 4.5 square miles
• Population: 2,477 (as of 2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 70648
• Latitude: 30.4854° N
• Longitude: 92.8493° W

Location and History

Kinder is located in southwestern Allen Parish, along U.S. Highway 165, about 40 miles north of Lake Charles. The town was established in the late 19th century and was named after James Kinder, a prominent early settler and businessman who contributed to the town’s development. Kinder’s early growth was linked to the railroad and timber industries, similar to many towns in the region. The town became more widely known after the opening of Coushatta Casino Resort, operated by the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana, which significantly boosted the local economy. Kinder remains a small but thriving community with strong ties to its agricultural roots and the gaming industry, which is now a major employer in the area.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Kinder High School and Kinder Elementary School serve the educational needs of the town, with Kinder High School known for its competitive athletics programs, particularly football. One of the major landmarks is the Coushatta Casino Resort, which draws visitors from across the region for gaming, entertainment, and lodging. Additionally, Kinder has several parks and recreational areas, such as Kinder Recreational Park, where residents enjoy outdoor activities. The town also celebrates its heritage with events like the annual Kinder Heritage Festival, which features music, food, and historical exhibits.

Reeves

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 1.2 square miles
• Population: 232 (as of 2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 70658
• Latitude: 30.5152° N
• Longitude: 93.0425° W

Location and History

Reeves is a small town located in the western part of Allen Parish, near the border with Beauregard Parish. It sits along U.S. Highway 190 and is roughly 50 miles from Lake Charles. Reeves was founded in the early 1900s as a farming community, and while it has remained small throughout its history, it has played a role in supporting the agricultural economy of the region. The town was named after an early settler family, the Reeves, who were instrumental in its establishment. Despite its size, Reeves has maintained a close-knit community that values its rural lifestyle and agricultural roots.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Reeves has one primary school, Reeves High School, which serves students from kindergarten through 12th grade and is a focal point for the community. One of the key landmarks in the town is the Reeves Baptist Church, which has been a center of worship and community activities for many years. Additionally, the town is close to outdoor recreation areas, including the West Bay Wildlife Management Area, which offers hunting, fishing, and hiking opportunities. The annual Reeves Homecoming event brings together current and former residents to celebrate the town’s heritage with parades, music, and local food.