Bossier Parish, Louisiana

Bossier Parish, Louisiana

Innovation, Growth & Southern Energy on the Red River

Located in Northwest Louisiana, Bossier Parish is one of the state’s fastest-growing regions—a bold combination of economic strength, military presence, entertainment, and Southern hospitality. With a booming business sector, a thriving tourism industry, and a deep-rooted agricultural legacy, Bossier Parish offers an ideal blend of tradition and forward momentum.

Whether you're a relocating family, investor, entrepreneur, or traveler, Bossier Parish provides both quality of life and opportunity in equal measure.

Where is Bossier Parish Located?

Bossier Parish is located in Northwest Louisiana, directly east of Shreveport and divided by the Red River. The parish sits along Interstate 20 and Interstate 220, making it a critical gateway between Louisiana, Texas, and Arkansas.

Its central location gives residents and businesses easy access to:

  • Downtown Shreveport

  • Barksdale Air Force Base

  • Interstate commerce corridors

  • Shreveport Regional Airport and I-49/I-20 interchange

What is Bossier Parish Known For?

Bossier Parish is recognized across the state and region for:

  • Barksdale Air Force Base – A key driver of population, employment, and defense-based development.

  • Technology and Cyber Innovation – Home to Cyber Innovation Center and partners in national defense and education.

  • Shopping, dining, and entertainment – Especially at the Louisiana Boardwalk and East Bank District.

  • Rapid residential and commercial development – Making it one of Louisiana’s top relocation destinations.

  • Excellent public schools – With Bossier Parish School District ranked among the top in the state.

Cities and Communities in Bossier Parish

  • Bossier City – The economic and cultural center of the parish, full of businesses, entertainment venues, and military community support.

  • Haughton – A fast-growing residential suburb with excellent schools and family-focused neighborhoods.

  • Benton (Parish Seat) – A quieter town known for its small-town charm, outdoor recreation, and civic pride.

  • Plain Dealing, Elm Grove, and Princeton – Rural communities rooted in agriculture, nature, and tradition.

Tourism in Bossier Parish

Tourism in Bossier Parish thrives on entertainment, outdoor recreation, culture, and events that bring in visitors from across Louisiana and surrounding states.

Top Attractions & Destinations

  • Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets – A major shopping and entertainment district on the Red River, offering dining, retail, riverfront views, and a festive atmosphere.

  • East Bank District & Plaza – A walkable downtown area in Bossier City featuring breweries, restaurants, a concert venue, and public art.

  • Margaritaville Resort Casino – A premier resort with gaming, dining, live entertainment, and accommodations.

  • Barksdale Global Power Museum – Located on Barksdale Air Force Base, this museum showcases aviation history and military heritage.

  • Red River National Wildlife Refuge – A sanctuary for hiking, birdwatching, and connecting with nature.

  • Cypress Black Bayou Park & Recreation Area – Offers cabins, a zoo, nature trails, boating, and fishing.

Festivals & Events

  • Bossier Night Market

  • Holiday in Dixie

  • Red River Revel

  • Fourth of July Fireworks on the River

  • Air Show at Barksdale AFB – A huge draw for families, aviation enthusiasts, and tourists.

Industry and Economic Development in Bossier Parish

Military & Defense

  • Barksdale Air Force Base anchors the local economy and provides significant jobs and federal investment.

  • The base also supports thousands of military families living in Bossier City and surrounding areas.

Technology & Cybersecurity

  • The Cyber Innovation Center and National Cyber Research Park are national leaders in cybersecurity education and defense development.

  • Tech startups, defense contractors, and federal partners are investing in this growing sector.

Healthcare & Education

  • The area continues to expand medical facilities, urgent care centers, and specialty practices.

  • The Bossier Parish Community College (BPCC) is a key driver of workforce development.

Retail, Construction & Real Estate

  • New residential subdivisions, commercial centers, and mixed-use developments are booming in Haughton, Benton, and South Bossier.

Agriculture in Bossier Parish

Though urban growth dominates much of the southern portion of the parish, agriculture remains strong in the northern and eastern areas.

Key agricultural products:

  • Hay and pastureland – Supporting cattle and horse operations.

  • Beef cattle and livestock

  • Soybeans and corn

  • Poultry farms

  • Timber and managed woodlands – Forestry operations still play a role in the rural economy.

  • Equestrian facilities and agri-tourism – Family farms and ranches offering horseback riding, farm tours, and seasonal events.

The rural-urban balance gives Bossier Parish a unique economic stability—where growth doesn't come at the expense of its agricultural heritage.

Why Bossier Parish Is the Future of Northwest Louisiana

  • One of the fastest-growing parishes in the state

  • Strategic military and defense presence

  • Strong job market and entrepreneurial environment

  • High quality of life with access to top-rated schools, parks, and healthcare

  • Affordable housing and high development potential

  • Family-friendly communities and walkable entertainment districts

Whether you're planting business roots, starting a family, or retiring in comfort, Bossier Parish offers the innovation of tomorrow with the soul of Louisiana.

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