Discover temporary housing, off-base rentals, and helpful resources near Barksdale Air Force Base
Barksdale AFB – Southern Spirit and Strong Community
Located in Bossier City, Louisiana, Barksdale Air Force Base is surrounded by rich culture, Southern hospitality, and a proud military tradition. Here, every day blends mission focus with the relaxed rhythm of Louisiana life; where neighbors know your name and the food is always worth talking about.
Living Around Bossier City
The nearby areas of Shreveport and Bossier City offer a wide range of off-base housing options; from affordable apartments to charming family homes shaded by old oak trees. The community is warm and welcoming, with great schools, local markets, and plenty of entertainment options. You’ll find everything from jazz clubs to riverside walks along the Red River.
Climate and Lifestyle
The weather here is mild in winter and hot in summer, with plenty of sunshine and a touch of Southern humidity. Locals love spending time outdoors; whether it’s fishing, boating, or enjoying weekend festivals filled with live music and Cajun flavors.
Why Off-Base Rentals Feel Like Home
Many Airmen and families choose off-base living near Barksdale AFB for the comfort, space, and community connection it provides. You’ll enjoy the privacy of your own home while embracing Louisiana’s charm, flavor, and easygoing way of life.
Key Units of Barksdale Air Force Base
11th Bomb Squadron
11th Bomb Squadron20th Bomb Squadron
20th Bomb Squadron93rd Bomb Squadron
93rd Bomb SquadronEighth Air Force
Eighth Air ForceBest Cities to Live Near Barksdale Air Force Base
Best Schools Near Barksdale Air Force Base
Waller Elementary
Public elementary school serving grades PreK–5.
Rusheon Middle School
Public middle school serving grades 6–8.
Bossier High School
Public high school serving grades 9–12.
Health Care Near Barksdale Air Force Base
On-Base Clinic2nd Medical Group – Barksdale AFB Clinic
Provides outpatient primary care, preventive medicine, pharmacy, and dental for Barksdale AFB personnel and families.
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HospitalOchsner LSU Health Shreveport – Academic Medical Center
Major teaching hospital offering comprehensive emergency, surgical, and specialty services.
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Urgent CareCHRISTUS Urgent Care – Shreveport
Walk-in urgent care for minor illnesses and injuries; TRICARE accepted.
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Healthcare Coverage
TRICARE Coverage
at Barksdale Air Force Base
Barksdale Air Force Base is part of the TRICARE East Region, managed by Humana Military. The 2nd Medical Group provides care for active duty and dependents, with specialty services coordinated through the East Region civilian network.
Tricare Prime
An HMO-style plan where you're assigned a Primary Care Manager. This is the most budget-friendly option, with minimal out-of-pocket costs.
Tricare Select
A PPO-style plan that gives you the flexibility to see any TRICARE-authorized provider—no referral needed. Perfect if you want more choice in your care.
Tricare for Life
Designed for beneficiaries with Medicare Parts A & B, this plan serves as wraparound coverage. It acts as a secondary payer to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Recreation & Leisure
Things to Do Around Barksdale Air Force Base
Outdoor / Entertainment~10 milesBossier City Boardwalk
Riverfront walk with restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Outdoor / Nature~20 milesRed River National Wildlife Refuge
Birdwatching, fishing, and scenic trails along the Red River. Great for outdoor recreation.
Entertainment / Shopping~12 milesLouisiana Boardwalk Outlets
Shopping, dining, and entertainment along the river. Fun for families and visitors.
Air Travel
Closest Airports to Barksdale Air Force Base
On-Base Airfield0 milesBarksdale AFB Airfield
Used for USAF bomber operations and training flights.
Regional / General Aviation Airport~12 milesShreveport Downtown Airport
Supports private, charter, and small aircraft operations.
Commercial / International Airport~58–60 mi (~1 hrTexarkana Regional Airport (TXK)
Major commercial airport with domestic flights.
FAQ
Frequently Asked
Questions
01What is Barksdale AFB known for?
Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana is home to Air Force Global Strike Command and the 2nd Bomb Wing, flying B-52 Stratofortress bombers.
02Where can I stay if I’m visiting Barksdale AFB?
The Barksdale Inn provides comfortable on-base lodging. Off base, Courtyard by Marriott Bossier City and Hampton Inn Shreveport are top picks.
03Which TRICARE region covers Barksdale AFB?
Barksdale AFB falls under TRICARE East Region, managed by Humana Military.
04What’s there to do around Barksdale AFB?
Visit the Barksdale Global Power Museum, enjoy Bossier City’s casinos, or take a stroll through the Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets.
05What airports are closest to Barksdale AFB?
Shreveport Regional Airport (15 mi) is the nearest major airport, offering connections across the U.S.
