In 1821 after a raid on U.S. property, Lafitte and his followers left the area quietly before the U.S. Navy could capture them as ordered. The date and place of his death is unknown but it is generally believed that he died about 1826 on the coast of Mexico. At the height of his power it is said the Lafitte commanded 1000 men and 50 ships. It is a goal of the separate facilities to demonstrate how culture, history and the environment impact upon each other. The park was organized in 1978 is divided into four units.
Admission is free.
The primary office and collection of the park is near the French Quarters in New Orleans. This facility houses archeological and cultural artifacts. The Acadian Cultural Center tells the story of the Acadians who settled the prairies, bayous and marshes of southern Louisiana. Just as the Acadians scattered, so is the center scattered. Facilities are located in Lafayette, Charenton, Thibodaux, and Eunice.