The Red River Waterway in the Heart of Shreveport
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Why Rent On J. Bennett Johnson Waterway
The J. Bennett Johnston Waterway runs through Shreveport, Louisiana along the scenic Red River, with the regional visitor center at 700 Clyde Fant Parkway serving as a comprehensive gateway to the river’s ecology, history, and recreational opportunities. The waterway is a testament to the engineering of the Corps of Engineers and a hub of outdoor and cultural activity in northwest Louisiana’s largest city. A vacation rental near the Shreveport waterfront gives your family an ideal base for experiencing everything this vibrant river corridor has to offer.
Vacation Rentals Along Shreveport’s Waterfront
Vacation rentals near the J. Bennett Johnston Waterway in Shreveport offer multiple bedrooms, full kitchens, and comfortable outdoor spaces within easy reach of the river and the city’s best attractions. Pet-friendly properties are widely available throughout the Shreveport area, and the city’s well-developed rental market provides options for families of all sizes. Many properties offer convenient access to the Louisiana Boardwalk and the broader riverfront entertainment district.
Fishing, Hiking, and the Red River Scenic Banks
The Red River corridor offers fishing and outdoor recreation throughout the Shreveport waterfront area, with hiking and scenic walks along the river banks providing beautiful views of the waterway and the city. The visitor center’s interactive exhibits and theater give families an engaging introduction to the Red River’s natural and industrial history that adds genuine educational value to the trip. The river’s scenic qualities are particularly striking at sunrise and sunset.
The Louisiana Boardwalk, Casinos, and Civil War History
The Louisiana Boardwalk is a major shopping, dining, and entertainment destination right on the river that gives families a lively and accessible day-out option without leaving the waterfront. The Margaritaville Resort Casino and Horseshoe Bossier City Casino add entertainment options for adults. The Shreveport-Bossier City area is rich with Civil War landmarks and museums that provide meaningful historical context for families interested in the region’s deep American history.
Shreveport’s River Culture Makes the Perfect Lake-Town Alternative
For families visiting northwest Louisiana who want a waterfront experience alongside a major city’s cultural offerings, the J. Bennett Johnston Waterway and the Shreveport riverfront deliver something that smaller lake destinations cannot: the combination of natural river beauty, major entertainment venues, Civil War history, and the genuine warmth of a Louisiana city that is genuinely proud of its river heritage. A vacation rental here is the right base for all of it.
- Max depth (ft)
- 12.01
Popular activities
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Cross-country Skiing
- Jet Skiing
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Marinas on J. Bennett Johnson Waterway
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what J. Bennett Johnson Waterway has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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No, swimming is not allowed in the J. Bennett Johnston Waterway except in designated areas. Swimming outside of these areas requires wearing a US Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times.
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People visit the J. Bennett Johnston Waterway Regional Visitor Center to learn about the Red River’s past and present. The center offers a reception area, theater, and exhibition hall with various exhibits that highlight the Corps of Engineers’ work on the river for navigation and recreation. It also provides information on the states the Red River passes through.
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The main fish species you can catch in the J. Bennett Johnston Waterway include largemouth bass, spotted bass, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, blue catfish, bluegill, sunfish, buffalo, carp, gar, and bowfin. The waterway is known for its diverse fish population and is a favorite venue for bass tournaments. It also has backwater areas with abundant fish habitats.
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There is no public beach at the J. Bennett Johnston Waterway. The area offers picnicking shelters, fishing opportunities, and locks and dams for boating, but it does not include beaches. Camping facilities are available through the Red River Waterway Commission, not directly at the waterway.
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The J. Bennett Johnston Waterway is near the towns of Shreveport and Bossier City in Louisiana. This waterway stretches over 200 miles from Shreveport to the Mississippi River, impacting several communities along the Red River. It was opened to navigation in December 1994, improving economic and recreational opportunities in the area.
