Red River National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
A serene nature escape with diverse wildlife, scenic trails around Lake Catherine, and an informative visitor center.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak wildlife & bird activity
Red River National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
Best Time
Peak wildlife & bird activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene nature escape with diverse wildlife, scenic trails around Lake Catherine, and an informative visitor center.
"A beautiful place to enjoy nature with fantastic birding and hiking trails."
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Essential for spotting birds and wildlife. Loaner binoculars are sometimes available, but bringing your own is best.
Check Facility Status ⚠️
Visitor center hours and restroom availability can vary. Call ahead or check online to confirm what's open.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Catherine Trails
Around Lake Catherine
Explore paved and natural paths offering fantastic birding and wildlife viewing opportunities. Perfect for a peaceful stroll or a picnic.
Interactive Visitor Center
Visitor Center
Discover engaging nature exhibits and activities for kids, with knowledgeable staff ready to share insights.
Butterfly Garden
Near Visitor Center
A serene spot to admire local butterflies, with informative displays about species like monarchs and swallowtails.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Visitor Center Hours & Access
Wildlife Viewing Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Essential for spotting birds and wildlife. Loaner binoculars are sometimes available, but bringing your own is best.
Check Facility Status ⚠️
Visitor center hours and restroom availability can vary. Call ahead or check online to confirm what's open.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
Trails range from paved to natural. Good walking shoes are a must for exploring the diverse terrain.
Picnic Ready 🧺
Enjoy a meal amidst nature. The park offers beautiful spots for picnics, but pack out everything you pack in.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Essential for spotting birds and wildlife. Loaner binoculars are sometimes available, but bringing your own is best.
Check Facility Status ⚠️
Visitor center hours and restroom availability can vary. Call ahead or check online to confirm what's open.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
Trails range from paved to natural. Good walking shoes are a must for exploring the diverse terrain.
Picnic Ready 🧺
Enjoy a meal amidst nature. The park offers beautiful spots for picnics, but pack out everything you pack in.
Photography Opportunities 📸
Great scenery and wildlife make for excellent photo ops, especially around the lake and during sunset.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the refuge for its beautiful natural setting, well-maintained trails, and abundant wildlife, making it a peaceful escape. The knowledgeable staff and interactive visitor center are also highlights. However, some facilities, like restrooms and docks, can be in disrepair or have limited access, and the visitor center's hours can be inconsistent.
"This park is beautiful. It has trails that are easy to navigate. Lots of pretty plants, bugs, and birds. Great spot to have a picnic.....downside it looks abandoned. The buildings are locked up. There are no bathrooms open to the public."
Maria McGill
"This was a wonderful place to enjoy Nature! The Visitors Center was extremely informative and the Lady there very very knowledgeable of the history of the park & was as nice as you could have ever asked for! The grounds were kept very nice and clean and neat. The only negative point and the whole park was the dock which could’ve been easily fixed and was underwater at one point. It wouldn’t have taken much to either temporarily raise it or have built and elevation Doc over it till they could’ve gotten a permanent fix the part that was under water, which shouldn’t have been as low as it was to begin with when the rest of the dock was raised 5 feet higher than the walkway. It would’ve made for a perfect place to sit and enjoy the view or fishing or photography of the wildlife in the area."
Greg Savat
"Pleasant natural area with fantastic birding around the lake with short board walk. They even supplied loaner binoculars! Good paved and natural hiking paths. Next time I'll bring my mountain bike. Great inside interactive nature exhibits and activities/crafts for the kids. Clean restrooms and friendly supportive staff."
Vick CW
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Visitor Center is located near Shreveport, Louisiana. While specific directions can vary, it's generally accessible by car. Many visitors mention it as a stop when exploring the Shreveport-Bossier City area. +1
Yes, parking is available at the Visitor Center and trailheads. It's recommended to park in designated areas to protect the natural environment.
Public transportation options to the refuge are limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or arrange for a ride.
Yes, the Louisiana Boardwalk and other Shreveport-Bossier City attractions are relatively close, making it a good addition to a day trip.
The refuge offers a mix of paved and natural hiking paths. Maps are usually available at the Visitor Center to help you explore.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Red River National Wildlife Refuge and its Visitor Center is typically free. However, it's always a good idea to confirm any potential fees or special event charges.
Visitor Center hours can vary seasonally and may be subject to change. It's highly recommended to check the official refuge website or call ahead to confirm current operating times before your visit.
Some visitors have noted that restrooms may not always be open or accessible. It's advisable to be prepared for this possibility.
Fishing is often permitted in designated areas of the refuge, but specific regulations and seasons apply. Check with the Visitor Center for current fishing guidelines.
General photography for personal use is usually allowed. However, if you plan on commercial photography or large-scale events, permits might be required. Inquire at the Visitor Center.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The refuge is a haven for diverse wildlife, including numerous bird species, butterflies, and potentially other animals. It's located on a major migration flyway, making it great for birding.
Yes, the trails are generally easy to navigate, with a mix of paved and natural paths suitable for various fitness levels.
Absolutely! The Visitor Center has interactive exhibits and activities for kids, and the trails are generally safe for family exploration.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Depending on the weather, bring layers, insect repellent, and sun protection.
Yes, the refuge offers scenic spots for picnics. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all your trash.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities or restaurants directly within the Red River National Wildlife Refuge. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for picnics.
The closest dining options will be in the nearby cities of Shreveport and Bossier City, which offer a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and fast-food establishments. +1
Yes, bringing your own food and beverages is highly recommended for a comfortable visit, especially if you plan to spend several hours exploring the trails or enjoying a picnic.
Shreveport and Bossier City offer diverse culinary scenes, from local Cajun and Creole cuisine to American favorites. Exploring online reviews or asking locals at the Visitor Center can provide good recommendations.
For specific event inquiries, including catering, it's best to contact the refuge management directly. They can advise on policies and possibilities for organized gatherings.
📸 📸 Photography
The areas around Lake Catherine, the butterfly garden, and scenic overlooks offer excellent photography opportunities. Sunsets over the refuge are also particularly beautiful.
You can capture images of various bird species, butterflies, and other native wildlife. The refuge's location on a migration flyway makes it a prime spot for bird photography.
General photography for personal use is usually permitted. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always check with the Visitor Center.
Early mornings and late afternoons are typically the best times for wildlife photography as animals are often more active and the light is softer.
Tripods are generally allowed for personal photography. Ensure you are not obstructing trails or disturbing wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenic beauty, and encourage your children to look for birds, butterflies, and other small creatures. Bringing binoculars can add an extra layer of excitement to their wildlife spotting.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
Bring your binoculars and camera to fully capture the experience. The refuge's diverse habitats support a rich array of wildlife, and the well-maintained paths allow for comfortable exploration. Don't miss the butterfly garden for a chance to see colorful species up close.
📸 Photographers
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best lighting conditions for capturing both landscapes and wildlife. While personal photography is generally permitted, it's wise to inquire at the Visitor Center about any specific regulations regarding commercial shoots or drone usage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails and Nature
Beyond the main trails, the refuge is a vital habitat for numerous species. It's situated along a significant migration flyway, making it a hotspot for bird enthusiasts. The butterfly garden is another highlight, offering a close-up look at species like monarchs and swallowtails, and providing educational insights into their life cycles.
For those looking for a more active experience, consider bringing a mountain bike as some trails may be suitable for cycling.
The Visitor Center Experience
Inside, you can learn about the diverse wildlife that inhabits the refuge, including the various bird species that utilize it as a stopover point during their migrations. The exhibits often cover topics like local conservation efforts and the natural history of the Red River area.
While the Visitor Center itself is a valuable resource, it's important to note that its operating hours can be inconsistent, and some amenities like restrooms might not always be accessible. It's always best to verify current hours and availability before your visit to ensure a smooth experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit