It’s not unusual for towns to spring up around important features like a river or a crossroads. It just so happens that Watson, Louisiana has both. This unincorporated area is close to Denham Springs and Baton Rouge, and its heart is formed around the junction of Louisiana Highways 16 and 1019. Bordered on one side by the twisting Amite River, the neighborhood provides easy access to everyday essentials, recreation and multiple dining options. European settlers have been here since at least the 1860s, and the Watson Post Office was established in 1894. The area was originally called Live Oak, and many community members still use that name. In fact, several local schools and at least one church use the moniker, too.
Watson sees steady growth with recently built neighborhood developments.
Cottage and bungalow homes add charm to Watson’s residential areas.
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Semi-rural setting with room to build or buy existing homes
Watson stretches over a unique combination of open land and tightly packed residential and commercial areas. Semi-urban and semi-rural, homebuyers will find plenty of room to build their custom home should the existing choices not be exactly what they need. From small starter homes to mid-size traditional houses to large contemporary estates, Watson has them all, particularly ranch-style homes from the 1970s. If someone's a fan of gardening or lawn care, large lot sizes can help them create their own leafy green haven. Housing prices range from $160,000 for a three-bedroom, two-bath traditional home to $475,000 for a five-bedroom, three-bath newly constructed estate.
Ranch-style homes from the 1970s are common across Watson.
Watson offers custom homes built in the classic Acadian style.
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Historic and high-performing schools
Students in Watson can attend several schools such as the Live Oak facilities. Live Oak Elementary was a 2022 Top Gains Honoree earning an A for student progress and participates in a web-based accelerated reader program. Live Oak Middle is one of the top 100 best public middle schools in Louisiana according to Niche. Its sixth graders take part in a technology program that allows them to have school-furnished laptops for classes and homework. Live Oak High School was established in 1895 as a one-room schoolhouse. In the many years since, it’s become one of the top 25 best college prep public schools in the state according to the educational ranking website Niche.
Live Oak Elementary in Watson offers web-based reading programs for students.
Live Oak Junior High serves Livingston Parish with strong academics and technology access.
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Low-impact paintball games for all skill levels
Meandering along the highways, residents find no shortage of Louisiana’s beauty or unique recreation opportunities. Basics Paintball offers low-impact sessions of the sport along with the nearly no-impact sensation, Gellyball. Found east of Baton Rouge, locals and visitors alike frequent the business for birthdays, team-building events and even bachelor parties. The challenging courses and large playing fields make the experience fun for first timers and seasoned players alike. Rental packages contain all the equipment needed for a great round of ball, be it gel or paint.
A generational grocer and Tex-Mex eatery draw loyal customers
Oak Point Fresh Market has been owned and operated by the Sumich Family since the first store opened in 1956. The 30,000-square-foot Watson store was established in 2006 and is run by the third generation of proprietors. The family’s strong belief in quality products has continued since the beginning of the full-service grocery, and strong ties to the community has helped the store to expand into a second store in the Baton Rouge area. In addition to high-quality meats and freshly baked bread, the store offers local produce, Louisiana seafood and gorgeous bouquets. Watson also has dining options to suit every palate. Papis Fajita Factory is a full-service Mexican restaurant specializing in fajitas. Its calling card is the fajita tower: a three-level experience with four different types of meats and melted cheese covered in a crawfish cream sauce. The extensive menu of Tex-Mex, Mexican and Latin American dishes ensures no one leaves hungry while the fully stocked bar makes the best margaritas around. Open every day of the week, the eatery offers tempting salads, enchiladas and playful presentations of tacos and desserts people have to see for themselves.
Owned by the Sumich family, Oak Point Fresh Market began in Watson in 1956.
Watson’s Papis Fajita Factory is a go-to spot for fajitas and chilled margaritas.
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Written By
K.T. Phillips
Photography Contributed By
Greg Riegler
Video By
Nathan Allen
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Tammy Jo Williams,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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This beautiful home offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, an office, and a formal dining room, with just under 2,500 sq. ft. of living space on 1.12 acres. Enjoy the peace of having no homes behind you for added privacy, all within a small and quiet neighborhood. A full home generator for peace of mind and covered patio perfect for relaxing or entertaining. This one is a rare opportunity to enjoy
Located at 34711 LA Hwy 16 in Watson. 3+ acre corner Lot with high visibility and traffic count. Near signalized intersection and minutes from Walmart, McDonalds, Popeyes, Walgreens, as well as multiple shopping centers.
Discover the perfect blend of style and comfort in this stunning 4-bedroom, 2-bath home, thoughtfully designed for both living and entertaining. The open-concept floor plan invites natural light and seamless flow, anchored by a cozy gas fireplace with a striking shiplap accent wall that adds charm to the living space. A desirable split floorplan ensures privacy, with the master suite serving as
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