Cities and Towns in Cameron Parish, Louisiana
Founded in 1870, Cameron Parish is one of 64 parishes in the state of Louisiana. Historically, Cameron Parish was formed from parts of Calcasieu Parish and Vermilion Parish. The city of Cameron is the parish seat. With FIPS code of 23, Cameron Parish has a population of 5,080 and area of 1,932 square miles (5,004 km²).
List of all cities in Cameron Parish, LA alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Cameron, LA | 70631 | 337 |
Creole, LA | 70632 | 337 |
Grand Chenier, LA | 70643 | 337 |
Hackberry, LA | 70645 | 337 |
Johnsons Bayou, LA | 70631 | 337 |
Major Cities and Towns in Cameron Parish, Louisiana
Cameron
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 4.5 square miles
- Population: 406 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 70631
- Latitude: 29.7976° N
- Longitude: 93.3243° W
Location and History
Cameron is the parish seat of Cameron Parish, located along the Gulf of Mexico in southwestern Louisiana. The town is known for its rich history, shaped largely by its proximity to the coast and reliance on the fishing, shrimping, and oil industries. Established in the mid-19th century, Cameron has faced numerous challenges due to hurricanes, including Hurricane Audrey in 1957 and Hurricanes Rita and Ike in the early 21st century, which caused significant damage to the area. Despite this, the resilient community continues to rebuild and thrive, maintaining its status as a hub for the fishing and seafood industries. The town’s location along Louisiana’s Creole Nature Trail has also made it a gateway for eco-tourism.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cameron is served by schools in the Cameron Parish School District, with the nearest high school being South Cameron High School. Major landmarks in the town include the Cameron Jetty Pier, popular for fishing and birdwatching, and the nearby Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge, which provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as crabbing, shrimping, and observing coastal wildlife. Another key landmark is the Cameron Parish Courthouse, an important government center. The town’s annual Cameron Fishing Festival celebrates the local culture and maritime heritage, drawing visitors to enjoy seafood, live music, and the beautiful coastal scenery.
Grand Chenier
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 5.0 square miles
- Population: 352 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 70643
- Latitude: 29.7612° N
- Longitude: 92.8668° W
Location and History
Grand Chenier is a small, unincorporated community located east of Cameron, near the Gulf of Mexico. The town was established in the early 19th century and developed as a farming and fishing community, benefiting from the rich marshlands that surround the area. “Chenier” refers to the oak ridges that provide higher ground in the marshy terrain, making the land suitable for farming and settlement. Grand Chenier has long been a center for cattle ranching, shrimping, and crabbing. Like many towns in Cameron Parish, it has been heavily impacted by hurricanes, but the community remains resilient, deeply connected to its cultural and environmental heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Grand Chenier is home to South Cameron High School, which serves the educational needs of the community. A key landmark in Grand Chenier is the Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge, one of the most famous conservation areas in Louisiana, known for its birdwatching, fishing, and alligator habitats. The refuge attracts visitors from across the state and beyond, offering a glimpse into Louisiana’s unique coastal ecosystems. Additionally, the Grand Chenier Cemetery, which dates back to the 19th century, serves as a reminder of the community’s long history. The area is also known for its scenic drives along Louisiana’s Creole Nature Trail, providing opportunities to explore the marshlands and wildlife.
Creole
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 6.0 square miles
- Population: 200 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 70632
- Latitude: 29.7960° N
- Longitude: 93.0702° W
Location and History
Creole is located east of Cameron, along Louisiana Highway 82. The community takes its name from the French-speaking Creole people who settled the area in the 18th and 19th centuries. Creole developed as a small agricultural and fishing community, with a culture deeply rooted in the Creole and Cajun traditions of southern Louisiana. The town’s location near the coast has made it vulnerable to hurricanes, with significant destruction caused by Hurricane Audrey in 1957 and other major storms over the years. However, the community remains resilient, continuing to rebuild and maintain its unique cultural identity.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Creole is served by South Cameron High School, located nearby in Grand Chenier. Key landmarks in the area include the Sabine National Wildlife Refuge, which is located to the west and provides a vast natural habitat for migratory birds, alligators, and other wildlife. The refuge is a popular destination for fishing, crabbing, and birdwatching. Another landmark is the historic Little Chenier community nearby, which offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life in coastal Louisiana. Creole is also known for its proximity to the Creole Nature Trail, where visitors can explore the natural beauty of Louisiana’s marshes, wetlands, and beaches.
Holly Beach
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.5 square miles
- Population: 50 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 70631
- Latitude: 29.7709° N
- Longitude: 93.4641° W
Location and History
Holly Beach, also known as the “Cajun Riviera,” is a small beach community located on the Gulf of Mexico in southwestern Cameron Parish. Known for its beautiful coastline and relaxed atmosphere, Holly Beach has long been a popular destination for tourists, anglers, and beachgoers. The town was originally developed in the early 20th century and became famous for its camps and beach houses. However, Holly Beach has been devastated by multiple hurricanes, most notably Hurricane Rita in 2005, which destroyed much of the town. Despite these setbacks, residents have continued to rebuild, and the community remains a beloved coastal retreat.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Holly Beach does not have its own schools, with students attending South Cameron High School in nearby towns. The primary landmark is the wide, sandy beach that stretches along the Gulf, providing opportunities for fishing, swimming, and beachcombing. Holly Beach is known for its picturesque sunsets and views of the Gulf of Mexico, attracting visitors for its natural beauty and simple way of life. Another key feature is the town’s role as a starting point for the Creole Nature Trail, which offers visitors the chance to explore the marshlands, wetlands, and wildlife of Cameron Parish. The community hosts fishing tournaments and beach gatherings that celebrate its coastal culture.
Hackberry
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 11.4 square miles
- Population: 1,180 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 70645
- Latitude: 29.9835° N
- Longitude: 93.3910° W
Location and History
Hackberry is located in the northern part of Cameron Parish, near Sabine Lake and the Intracoastal Waterway. The town was originally settled in the early 19th century and developed as a small farming and fishing community. Hackberry’s economy historically revolved around cattle ranching, shrimping, and oil production, with the nearby Sabine National Wildlife Refuge providing ample opportunities for hunting and fishing. The town’s name comes from the abundance of hackberry trees that grew in the area. Hackberry has grown steadily over the years, maintaining its rural character while also benefiting from its proximity to the oil and gas industry.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hackberry is served by Hackberry High School, which offers education from kindergarten through 12th grade. A major landmark in the town is the Sabine National Wildlife Refuge, one of the largest wildlife refuges in the region, offering hunting, fishing, and birdwatching opportunities. The town is also known for its Hackberry Rod and Gun Club, a popular destination for hunters and anglers. Hackberry is a gateway to the Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge, further enhancing its appeal as a destination for outdoor recreation. The community hosts annual events such as fishing rodeos and outdoor festivals that celebrate the town’s strong connection to nature and wildlife.