Betty Virginia Park

A Bit of History

Found in Shreveport's South Highland neighborhood, Betty Virginia Park stretches across 23 acres of green space that locals absolutely treasure. The park came to be when A.C. Steere and Elias Goldstein donated the land to the city, naming it after their daughters, Betty Goldstein and Virginia Steere - a pretty sweet family legacy, if you ask us.

Its central location makes it a popular spot in the city. Where baseball and softball players once competed, there's now open green space for whatever recreational activities strike your fancy. Many Shreveport residents consider it one of the nicer parks in town - a green space that has evolved well over time.

Get Moving

If you're looking to squeeze in some steps, the park offers a paved walking and jogging trail stretching 0.869 miles. Nothing too intense here - just a few gentle hills and three charming little bridges crossing over a concrete drainage canal. You can complete the whole loop in about 15 minutes, making it well-suited for a quick workout or a leisurely afternoon stroll.

The towering oak trees provide welcome shade, while the well-kept gardens create a peaceful backdrop for spreading out a blanket and enjoying a picnic. The well-maintained grounds - with freshly mowed grass and clean spaces - provide plenty of room to toss a frisbee or just lounge around.

Kid-Friendly Fun

The playground recently got a makeover and now features separate zones for the little ones (ages 2-5) and bigger kids (5-12). Play equipment includes swings, spinners, and climbing structures for children to enjoy. The playground has a soft surface made from recycled tires - providing cushioning for inevitable tumbles and jumps.

Nearby, you'll come across soccer fields with two goals positioned between the Fairfield Avenue and Ockley entrances. Perfect for an impromptu game, even if you're just kicking the ball around for fun. Within the park, picnic tables and concrete benches offer spots to take a breather, including some right by the playground. That said, on sweltering summer days, you might find yourself hunting for more shaded seating options.

Places to Gather

Scattered within the park are several small gazebos, plus a larger pavilion with multiple picnic-style tables underneath. These covered spots are ideal for family get-togethers or small group events - providing shelter whether you're escaping the Louisiana sun or an unexpected shower.

Yes, there are restroom facilities available, though they're admittedly a bit of a mixed bag. They're functional with running water, but could use some updates and more regular maintenance. If you're planning to spend several hours at the park, bringing along some sanitizing wipes might not be a bad idea.

Bring Your Four-Legged Friends

Your furry companions are more than welcome at Betty Virginia Park! You'll see plenty of dog owners walking their pets along the trail. Just remember that dogs need to stay on leash within the park. There are doggy cleanup stations provided, however sometimes the bag supply runs low - so it's smart to bring a few extras just in case. The wide open grassy areas make great training grounds if you're working with your pup on a long lead.

Community Spirit

The park really comes alive during community events like Crawfest and the annual Pumpkin Shine on the Line. These gatherings transform the space into a hub of food, music, and neighborhood connections. The generous layout works beautifully for everything from intimate family picnics to large community celebrations.

With multiple entrances around its perimeter, Betty Virginia Park offers an accessible urban oasis. Mornings tend to be busier, especially during spring and summer, with people of all ages making use of the facilities. Parking can sometimes be challenging during peak hours or events, but the park remains a nice place to exercise, catch up with friends, or simply relax amid pleasant surroundings.