Cities and Towns in West Carroll Parish, Louisiana

Founded in 1877, West Carroll Parish is one of 64 parishes in the state of Louisiana. Historically, West Carroll Parish was formed from when Carroll Parish was divided. The city of Oak Grove, West Carroll Parish is the parish seat. With FIPS code of 123, West Carroll Parish has a population of 9,594 and area of 360 square miles (932 km²).

List of all cities in West Carroll Parish, LA alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Chickasaw, LA 71263 318
Concord, LA 71263 318
Epps, LA 71237 318
Forest, LA 71242 318
Goodwill, LA 71263 318
Kilbourne, LA 71253 318
Oak Grove, LA 71263 318
Pioneer, LA 71266 318
Terry, LA 71263 318

Major Cities and Towns in West Carroll Parish, Louisiana

Oak Grove

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 1.7 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,472 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 71263
  • Latitude: 32.8601° N
  • Longitude: 91.3896° W

Location and History

Oak Grove is the parish seat of West Carroll Parish, located in northeastern Louisiana, near the Arkansas border. The town is positioned at the crossroads of U.S. Highway 17 and Louisiana Highway 2, making it an important hub for the surrounding rural area. Oak Grove was established in the late 19th century, with the development of the local economy centered around agriculture, primarily cotton and later soybean farming. The town grew slowly but steadily, driven by its role as a service center for farmers in the region. Oak Grove has managed to preserve its small-town charm, with a number of historic buildings and churches that reflect its deep roots in Louisiana’s rural history. The town continues to play a significant role in West Carroll Parish’s agricultural industry.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Oak Grove is served by the West Carroll Parish School District, with Oak Grove High School being the major educational institution in the area, providing education from grades 7 to 12. Oak Grove Elementary School serves younger students. In terms of landmarks, the Fiske Theatre, a beautifully restored Art Deco cinema, is a major attraction, offering a glimpse into the town’s past. The West Carroll Parish Museum is another important site, where visitors can learn about the history of the area, including exhibits on agriculture and local culture. The nearby Poverty Point Reservoir provides recreational opportunities for fishing and boating.

Epps

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 0.7 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 854 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 71237
  • Latitude: 32.6192° N
  • Longitude: 91.4829° W

Location and History

Epps is a small village in West Carroll Parish, located approximately 12 miles southeast of Oak Grove, along U.S. Highway 17. Epps has a rich history tied to the Native American presence in the region, most notably due to its proximity to Poverty Point, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Poverty Point is an ancient earthwork site created by indigenous peoples more than 3,000 years ago, making it one of the most significant archaeological sites in North America. The modern village of Epps was established in the early 20th century, primarily as a farming community. Over time, it grew modestly, supported by agriculture, particularly cotton and soybeans.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Epps is served by Epps High School, which offers education from elementary to high school levels, and is part of the West Carroll Parish School District. The major landmark near Epps is the Poverty Point World Heritage Site, an ancient archaeological complex with mounds and ridges built by a prehistoric civilization. The site offers a visitor center, guided tours, and exhibits on the ancient inhabitants and their sophisticated society. Additionally, Poverty Point Reservoir State Park, located nearby, provides opportunities for camping, fishing, and birdwatching, attracting both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Kilbourne

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 1.0 square mile
  • Population: Approximately 366 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 71253
  • Latitude: 32.9932° N
  • Longitude: 91.3112° W

Location and History

Kilbourne is a small village located in the northern part of West Carroll Parish, near the Arkansas-Louisiana state line. The town is primarily a farming community, with its economy based on agriculture, particularly cotton, soybeans, and corn. Kilbourne was established in the late 19th century as settlers moved into the area to cultivate the fertile land. The town’s development has been closely tied to the expansion of farming operations, and it has retained its rural character throughout its history. Kilbourne is one of the smaller communities in West Carroll Parish, with a quiet, close-knit population.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Kilbourne High School is the primary educational institution in the town, serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The school plays a central role in the community, not only as an educational center but also as a hub for local events and sports activities. As for landmarks, Kilbourne is known for its rural landscapes and small-town charm rather than large historical monuments. However, its proximity to the Mississippi River and the nearby agricultural fields offers scenic drives and a peaceful environment. The community’s churches and schools serve as gathering points for residents, reflecting the town’s strong community ties and agricultural heritage.

Pioneer

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 0.6 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 156 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 71266
  • Latitude: 32.7361° N
  • Longitude: 91.4315° W

Location and History

Pioneer is a small village located in the southern part of West Carroll Parish, near the intersection of Louisiana Highways 17 and 585. It is approximately 16 miles southeast of Oak Grove. Pioneer was established in the early 20th century and has remained a small, rural community with deep ties to agriculture. Like many of the surrounding communities in West Carroll Parish, Pioneer was primarily developed around farming, particularly cotton and soybean cultivation. The village’s name reflects the pioneering spirit of the early settlers who moved into this area of northeastern Louisiana to work the land.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Pioneer is served by Pioneer Elementary School, which is part of the West Carroll Parish School District and provides education for the local children. High school students typically attend nearby Oak Grove High School. Landmarks in Pioneer are minimal, given its small size, but the community offers access to the rich agricultural history of the parish. The nearby Poverty Point World Heritage Site and Poverty Point Reservoir provide opportunities for educational trips and outdoor activities. Pioneer’s peaceful, rural atmosphere, combined with its close proximity to natural landmarks, makes it an attractive location for those looking to escape city life and enjoy the simplicity of rural Louisiana.