Fun on The Water
Temperatures are rising, and the water is calling. Let’s explore some of the best ways to have fun and cool down at the best pools and places to swim in and around Shreveport-Bossier.
This nearby gem, just 30 minutes southeast of Shreveport, has plenty to offer water lovers. The 27-square-mile lake has thousands of acres to enjoy amidst the scenic beauty of moss-draped cypress trees. Bring your own boat and set out from one of the two launches to enjoy some of the best fishing. Kayak, canoe, and flat-bottom boat rentals are available. There is an 11-mile canoe trail to float with ample picnicking spots along the shore. Hours of operation are from 8 AM to 10 PM with a $3.00 entry fee.
Just to the west of Shreveport, lies Cross Lake, one of the largest bodies of water in northwestern Louisiana. Ford Park, situated on the southern shore, has a fishing pier and free boat launch. Its shallow depth and light winds make it a great location for sailing. Swimming, skiing, and surf-sailing are popular pastimes here. The lake is open from sunrise to sunset. Free admission.
This local mainstay, formerly known as Splash Kingdom, has been providing family fun for decades. There are over a dozen attractions at the park which is under new management with improvements underway. Enjoy the wave pool or lazy river while you lounge in one of the rental cabanas. Food and drinks are available, and the park is available for private events. Admission prices vary.
This park is a great place to take kids because of its splash pad and Leaps and Bounds play area, Louisiana’s first barrier-free playground. There are also picnic areas and walking trails. Hours vary depending on the day. Closed on Sunday.
Located in nearby Haughton, this park offers a clean, well-maintained playground, bathrooms, a pavilion, and a splash pad which is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Splash Pads
There are several other splash pads around town including the following:
- A.B. Palmer, 547 E. 79th St., Shreveport.
- Airport Park, 6500 Kennedy St., Shreveport.
- David Raines, 2920 Round Grove Lane, Shreveport.
- Hattie Perry, 4300 Ledbetter St., Shreveport.
- Lakeside Park, 2200 Milam St., Shreveport.
- Querbes, 3500 Beverly Place, Shreveport.
Most are open from May 1st to October 1st from 8 AM to 8 PM. Some of these locations are parks with swimming pools which have different hours. Tuesday-Friday 1 PM - 6 PM. Saturday and Sunday 1 PM -5 PM. Admission fees for pools are $2.50.
Featuring two lakes, this facility has some top-notch fishing and swimming holes. There are several thousand acres to enjoy as well as camping areas and cottage rentals.
Hosts for multiple Bassmaster Classics, they are well-equipped to handle all your fishing and boating needs with a live bait and tackle shop, convenience store, fuel island, and double ramp. Stay at one of their cabins or multi-bedroom trailers. RV’s are welcome. Non-smoking. No pets.
