There’s always something new popping up in the Pelican State. New adventures seem to always pop up, catering to the seasons, and right now it’s the perfect time to be spending your days outdoors. Tucked away underneath the tall pines in Natchitoches lies one of the most amazing hidden gems in Louisiana, and you’re not going to want to waste any time checking it out. It’s the only place where you can dig for fossils in Louisiana, and this is one unique attraction that the entire family will thoroughly enjoy. Let’s check it out:

Dark Woods Adventure Park is a year-round attraction that transforms every season.
Jason Summerlin/Google
In the fall, it's one of the spookiest haunted houses, attracting people from all over central Louisiana looking for an adrenaline-inducing evening. Then in the winter, Dark Woods transforms into a twinkling winter wonderland that’s a popular attraction for families who want to get lost in an enchanting landscape.
And for the summer, they transform yet again into a unique attraction that you won’t find anywhere else in Louisiana.
Dark Woods Haunted Attraction/Facebook
And all you’ll need is your adventurous spirit and some free time to kill.
At Dark Woods’ Lost Treasure Mine, you can hunt for raw gemstones and fossils from around the world.
Jessica Carbaugh/Google
The 95-foot authentic outdoor water sluice is the only one of its kind in the state, and this is one attraction the whole family can get in on.
As the only place you can dig for fossils in Louisiana, this is a must-try.
Dark Woods Adventure Park/Google
Of course, the fossils, gemstones, and other minerals you'll find are shipped in, so they're not native to the area, but that doesn't dampen the experience one bit.
They’ll start you off with everything you need to begin your mining adventure.
Jessica Carbaugh/Google
There is no admission cost, you only pay for the package you want. Packages start at $8.99 and include a mystery bag full of crystals, gemstones, fossils, shark teeth, spear points, and more. Every bag has a guarantee, so you won't walk away empty-handed, and you get to keep what you find!
The whole family will have a blast searching for gemstones to bring home.
Dark Woods Haunted Attraction/Facebook
Who knows, maybe this will be the beginning of a new collection or hobby!
Treasure hunting can work up an appetite, and luckily you won’t have to go far to grab a snack.
Dark Woods Haunted Attraction/Facebook
Stop off at Dark Woods’ Black Cat Cafe in between hunting and fuel up on everything from ice cream to nachos and meat pies. Meat pies are a favorite when it comes to popular foods in the Natchitoches area, and these stuffed pockets of bread are just delicious.
Dark Woods Adventure Park would also love to host your upcoming birthday, too.
Dark Woods Adventure Park/Google
They offer a specific birthday party package with several add-ons to make the birthday party as unique as you are, and trust us--this is one special spot that will create memories y'all will be talking about for years to come!

For more information, be sure to check out the Dark Woods Adventure Park’s website and be sure to follow Dark Woods on Facebook, too.

Have you visited Dark Woods to dig for gemstones? What about in other seasons? Share your experiences with us in the comments below.

While you’re in Natchitoches, you may want to carve out some time to do a little exploring! The 33-block Historic District is a great place to start.

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More to Explore

Outdoor Attractions in Louisiana

Jackie Ann | May 22, 2023

What are some kid-friendly outdoor attractions in Louisiana?

Some of the best kid-friendly outdoor attractions in Louisiana include:

  • Gators & Friends: An adventure park, petting zoo, and alligator farm located near Shreveport. Here you can pet and feed exotic animals, race your friends on go-karts, and even take a ride on Louisiana’s longest zip line. 
  • Audubon Zoo: This historic zoo in New Orleans has been a tradition for many families and it’s one of the most popular attractions in New Orleans. 
  • Louisiana State Parks: There are 21 state parks in Louisiana, and most of them have a specific Kids Trail that features informative signs to make it an educational experience and also whimsical enough to inspire the next generation of nature lovers. 
  • Swamp Tours: Swamp tours are a great kid-friendly attraction in Louisiana, especially for kids who love animals. While animal sightings are never guaranteed, the knowledgeable captains have spent their entire lives on these waters and are really good at seeking out wildlife.

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