Caddo Parish, Louisiana

Caddo Parish, Louisiana

The Cultural and Commercial Capital of Northwest Louisiana

Caddo Parish is a cornerstone of Northwest Louisiana—home to a vibrant mix of commerce, culture, education, agriculture, and industry. Anchored by Shreveport, one of the largest cities in the state, Caddo Parish offers the perfect balance of big-city energy and rural heritage. From tech startups to oilfields, historic architecture to waterfront living, this parish truly represents the diverse and dynamic spirit of Louisiana.

Whether you're looking to invest, relocate, launch a business, or explore a cultural hub, Caddo Parish is full of promise and personality.

Where is Caddo Parish Located?

Caddo Parish is located in the northwest corner of Louisiana, bordered by:

  • Texas to the west

  • Arkansas to the north

  • Bossier Parish to the east

Major transportation corridors—including Interstates 20 and 49, U.S. Highway 71, and Highway 80—connect Caddo Parish to Dallas, Little Rock, New Orleans, and other key southern markets. The Red River flows through the parish, making it historically and economically significant for trade and transport.

Major Cities and Communities in Caddo Parish

  • Shreveport (Parish Seat and Economic Hub) – Louisiana’s third-largest city, known for its arts, culture, healthcare, riverboat casinos, and booming small business sector.

  • Vivian – A vibrant town in North Caddo known for its festivals, historic buildings, and tight-knit community.

  • Blanchard, Mooringsport, Oil City, Greenwood, and Rodessa – Smaller towns with strong rural roots, local pride, and agricultural presence.

  • Southern Hills and Broadmoor – Key suburban areas of Shreveport known for family-friendly living, schools, and parks.

What Is Caddo Parish Known For?

Caddo Parish is recognized for its:

  • Historic oil and gas industry – Home to the Caddo Pine Island Oil Field, one of the oldest continuously producing oil fields in the U.S.

  • Cultural richness – A hub for blues music, southern cuisine, museums, and art.

  • Riverboat casinos and entertainment – Shreveport’s nightlife and tourism economy drive regional attention.

  • Healthcare leadership – A regional center for hospitals, specialized care, and medical research.

  • Higher education – Home to LSU Health Shreveport, Southern University at Shreveport, and Centenary College of Louisiana.

Tourism & Attractions in Caddo Parish

Caddo Parish offers an incredible mix of history, nature, art, food, and entertainment that appeals to both tourists and locals.

Top Tourism Spots:

  • Shreveport Riverfront and Downtown District

    • Riverwalk shopping

    • Art galleries, murals, and local cuisine

    • Sci-Port Discovery Center (a family favorite for hands-on science exploration)

  • Louisiana State Exhibit Museum

    • World-renowned for its dioramas and history exhibits.

  • American Rose Center

    • The nation’s largest park dedicated to roses, located in Greenwood.

  • Shreveport Aquarium and R.W. Norton Art Gallery

    • Cultural and educational highlights for all ages.

  • Casinos and Entertainment

    • Sam’s Town, Eldorado, Boomtown, and Margaritaville (just across the river in Bossier) offer luxury lodging, dining, and live shows.

  • Red River National Wildlife Refuge

    • Hiking, birdwatching, and nature trails just minutes from downtown.

  • Fests and Events

    • Red River Revel Arts Festival

    • Highland Jazz & Blues Festival

    • Mardi Gras parades and krewes unique to northwest Louisiana

Industry and Economic Development in Caddo Parish

Caddo Parish's economy is diverse and resilient. While it was historically built on oil and natural gas, today’s industries span:

1. Energy Sector

  • Home to legacy fields like Caddo Pine Island Oil Field

  • Active natural gas and petroleum production

  • Opportunities in alternative energy research

2. Healthcare & Biomedical

  • LSU Health Sciences Center

  • Willis-Knighton Health System

  • Major providers of jobs, research, and education in the region

3. Logistics and Manufacturing

  • Proximity to Interstate corridors, railroads, and the Port of Caddo-Bossier

  • General Motors once operated here; new industrial facilities continue to expand the parish’s manufacturing footprint

4. Film & Creative Industry

  • Known as “Hollywood South,” Shreveport has hosted multiple film and television productions, supported by state tax credits and local talent.

5. Technology and Startups

  • A growing tech scene centered around co-working spaces, innovation hubs, and local grants for entrepreneurs

Agriculture in Caddo Parish

While industry dominates in the south, agriculture remains vital in the northern and western parts of the parish. The fertile soils of the Red River and flatlands make Caddo a strong performer in:

  • Beef cattle and livestock

  • Hay and forage crops

  • Soybeans, corn, and oats

  • Poultry and egg production

  • Timber and pine farming – A longstanding part of the region’s rural economy

Farmers' markets, 4-H programs, and rural cooperatives keep the farming community active and connected.

Why Caddo Parish Is an Economic and Cultural Powerhouse

Caddo Parish offers something for everyone:

  • Urban amenities with small-town hospitality

  • A growing healthcare and tech workforce

  • Affordable housing and opportunity zones for investment

  • A unique mix of history, innovation, and natural beauty

  • Deep educational and entrepreneurial resources

  • A strong blend of Southern culture, entertainment, and art

Whether you’re growing a business, starting a family, or seeking a diverse and dynamic region to call home, Caddo Parish delivers energy, opportunity, and lifestyle in one powerful package.

Back to blog