Shreveport-Bossier City outdoor activities

Take a day to hike the trails at Caddo Lake, and while you’re there, learn more about the beautiful array of natural features and animal habitats while bird-watching or canoeing. Get outdoors and enjoy the natural beauty that Louisiana’s Other Side has to offer. Here are a few other natural wonders found locally that are sure to keep you busy and active during the spring season.

Cypress Black Bayou Park & Recreation Area

Take a short drive from the city and let the great outdoors at Cypress Black Bayou help you relax. Located in Benton, just north of Bossier City, Cypress Black Bayou offers swimming, fishing, a nature center, petting zoo and recreation area for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Take in the wonderful views as you enjoy the breeze off the lake while resting on a sheltered pier. With 73 RV sites and a host of cabins, cottages and huts, Cypress-Black Bayou offers families a great weekend getaway at 135 Cypress Park Dr., Benton. Hours: 7 a.m.-9 p.m., Sunday-Thursday, and 7 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday-Saturday, from March through September. Information at 318-965-0007 or www.cypressblackbayou.com

Walter B. Jacobs Memorial Nature Park

Explore and discover at the 160-acre Walter B. Jacobs Memorial Nature Park in Shreveport. The park’s beautiful grounds are set amid the enchantment of a pine-oak-hickory forest that’s accessible by five miles of nature trails. Take a day to hike the trails and picnic at the park amid the beauty of natural features and animal habitats. The park enhances nature’s best with interpretive exhibits and also through special events beginning each spring, which are great for both families and individuals. A handicapped-accessible trail is available at the park and several naturalists are available to provide information and interpretation to park visitors. Location: 8012 Blanchard Furrh Rd., Shreveport. Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Wednesday-Saturday, 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Sundays. Information: (318) 929-2806; www.caddoparks.com/memorial.cfm For more on outdoor recreation in Shreveport-Bossier, visit www.ShreveportBossierFunGuide.com.