Tangipahoa Parish

Tangipahoa (pronounced “tanjipaho”) Parish grew up around the railroad line that runs the length of it. This gives its well-preserved historic towns, such as Amite, Hammond, Independence and Ponchatoula, a special character. The terrain varies from rolling hills in the north to bayous and wetlands in the south. The rural town of Kentwood is known not only for its pure water but also for another product: pop icon Britney Spears. The countryside, however, is more reminiscent of a Beatles song, “Strawberry Fields Forever,” when local farmers are busying harvesting their sweet red produce. The annual strawberry festival in Ponchatoula gives the ruby fruit its due. You can get a firsthand look at Louisiana wetlands on the Swamp Walk in Joyce Swamp. The Freedom Ranch in Independence brings visitors into contact with their alpaca herds. History buffs enjoy walking in a soldier’s shoes at the Camp Moore Confederate Museum and Cemetery.