Richard Fleming Park

Natural Setting

Situated on Shettleworth Bayou where it meets Cross Lake in Shreveport, Richard Fleming Park spans a modest but mighty 15 acres of Louisiana landscape. Despite its modest size, the park contains a surprising amount of natural diversity. The park combines pine-hardwood and bottomland hardwood forest habitats, creating a mini-ecosystem that's both ecologically interesting and pleasant to explore. You can wander through the forest and along the lakeshore on a short walking path that offers some genuinely peaceful moments away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Wildlife Viewing

Bird enthusiasts will find plenty to appreciate here. The park's position on Cross Lake offers good views of the water where over 238 species of birds have been spotted. From rare waterbirds to colorful migratory songbirds, the avian show changes with the seasons. Winter brings majestic Bald Eagles and Ospreys soaring overhead, along with a variety of waterfowl bobbing on the lake. Come spring, the woodland areas become a symphony of birdsong as migratory species pass through, turning the park into a natural concert hall.

Fishing

Local anglers frequently fish at this park on Cross Lake. The 60-foot fishing pier extends your reach into the lake's bounty, while two boat ramps provide easy water access if you prefer to cast from your vessel. Bank fishing is particularly popular here, with the shoreline offering several prime spots to drop a line. Pro tip: night fishing tends to yield better catches than daytime attempts, so consider packing a flashlight and staying after sunset for potentially better results.

Recreational Facilities

The park recently upgraded its playgrounds, which now feature a blue rubberized mat surface that's both safer and more comfortable for little ones. One section even has a covered awning for those sunny Louisiana days when shade becomes precious. The playground equipment is particularly well-suited for younger children, but kids of all ages seem to get a kick out of the steep slide that offers just the right amount of thrill. Need more space to burn energy? The large open field with soccer goals sits conveniently near the playground, ideal for impromptu games of soccer, football, frisbee, or whatever sport strikes your fancy.

Amenities

Picnicking at Richard Fleming Park is a delight with well-kept picnic areas scattered throughout, many nestled under shady trees that offer natural cooling. For larger gatherings, the covered pavilion provides an excellent home base with its large tables, overhead lighting, and electrical outlets - handy for everything from birthday celebrations to family reunions. Clean, modern restrooms are available when nature calls, and the paved parking makes accessibility a breeze. The park's handicapped-accessible facilities ensure everyone can enjoy this natural retreat, regardless of mobility challenges.

Special Events

Occasionally, the park transforms into a community hub hosting events like Art in the Park, where local vendors display their crafts alongside live music and children's activities. The natural backdrop and open spaces make it an ideal setting for church picnics and community gatherings year-round. The combination of water views, woodland paths, and open recreational spaces makes Richard Fleming Park a pleasant neighborhood park with good access to nature.