DeRidder Live Cam

A small portion of the city extends into Vernon Parish

Live Webcam DeRidder, Louisiana - United States

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DeRidder History

DeRidder is a city located in the southwestern part of the state of Louisiana, in the United States. The area where DeRidder is located was first inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Choctaw, Attakapas, and Opelousas.

The city of DeRidder was founded in 1893 by the Kansas City Southern Railroad Company, which was building a railroad line through the area. The city was named after Ella de Ridder, the sister-in-law of J. L. Hutchinson, a prominent businessman and landowner in the area.

During the early 20th century, DeRidder grew rapidly as a center for timber production and processing. The city's location in the heart of Louisiana's "Longleaf Pine Belt" made it an ideal location for sawmills and paper mills, which formed the backbone of the local economy for many years.

In the mid-20th century, DeRidder's economy diversified somewhat with the establishment of a number of manufacturing and service industries. However, the city's reliance on timber production and processing remained a significant part of its economy.

In more recent years, DeRidder has continued to grow and evolve, with the city's population increasing steadily and new businesses and industries moving in. Today, DeRidder is known for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere and its strong community spirit, as well as its beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor recreational opportunities.

DeRidder Top Tourist Attractions

DeRidder may not be a top tourist destination, but it does offer several attractions worth visiting. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in DeRidder:

  • Beauregard Parish Museum: This museum showcases the history of Beauregard Parish, including exhibits on the area's Native American heritage, the Civil War, and the timber industry that played such a key role in the area's development.
  • DeRidder City Park: This park is a popular spot for picnics, sports, and outdoor recreation, with amenities like playgrounds, walking trails, tennis courts, and more.
  • West Park Skate Park: This skate park is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, featuring ramps, bowls, rails, and other obstacles for skateboarders and BMX riders.
  • Sabine National Wildlife Refuge: Located just a short drive from DeRidder, this wildlife refuge is home to a variety of animals and plants, and offers visitors the opportunity to explore wetlands, bayous, and other natural habitats.
  • Kisatchie National Forest: This expansive national forest covers over 600,000 acres in Louisiana and offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and more.
  • Beauregard Parish Fair: Held annually in DeRidder, this fair features rides, games, food, and entertainment, and is a popular event for both locals and visitors.

These are just a few of the top tourist attractions in DeRidder and the surrounding area. Visitors can also explore the city's downtown district, visit local restaurants and shops, and take in the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside.

DeRidder Climate

DeRidder has a humid subtropical climate, which is typical of much of the southeastern United States. The city experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters, with fairly consistent rainfall throughout the year.

In the summer months, from June to September, temperatures in DeRidder typically range from the mid-70s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit (around 24 to 35 degrees Celsius), with high humidity levels that can make it feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are common during the summer, with occasional severe weather events like hurricanes or tornadoes.

In the winter months, from December to February, temperatures in DeRidder typically range from the mid-40s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 7 to 18 degrees Celsius). While snow and ice are rare, the city may experience occasional frost or freezing temperatures.

Overall, DeRidder's climate is characterized by warm, humid conditions throughout much of the year, with occasional extreme weather events like hurricanes or severe thunderstorms. Visitors to the area should be prepared for hot and humid conditions in the summer, and mild to cool temperatures in the winter.

DeRidder Geography

DeRidder is located in the southwestern part of Louisiana, in the United States. The city is situated in Beauregard Parish, which is named after Confederate general P.G.T. Beauregard.

The city of DeRidder covers an area of approximately 4.7 square miles (12.2 square kilometers), and is located at an elevation of about 167 feet (51 meters) above sea level.

The landscape around DeRidder is characterized by rolling hills, pine forests, and numerous small lakes and streams. The city is located in the heart of Louisiana's "Longleaf Pine Belt," which is known for its distinctive longleaf pine trees and diverse plant and animal life.

To the south of DeRidder lies the Sabine River, which forms the border between Louisiana and Texas. To the east of DeRidder lies the Kisatchie National Forest, a large national forest that covers over 600,000 acres and offers visitors a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities. Overall, DeRidder's geography is characterized by a mix of rolling hills, pine forests, and waterways, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Beauregard Parish

Beauregard Parish is a parish located in southwestern Louisiana, in the United States. The parish is named after Confederate general P.G.T. Beauregard, who served during the American Civil War.

Beauregard Parish covers an area of approximately 1,166 square miles (3,020 square kilometers) and has a population of around 36,000 people. The parish is home to several communities, including the city of DeRidder, the parish seat and largest city.

The economy of Beauregard Parish is diverse, with industries including agriculture, forestry, oil and gas production, and manufacturing. The parish is home to several large employers, including Boise Cascade, RoyOMartin, and Weyerhaeuser.

Beauregard Parish is also known for its natural beauty, with numerous lakes, rivers, and forests that offer opportunities for outdoor recreation like fishing, hunting, camping, and hiking. The Sabine National Wildlife Refuge, which is located just south of Beauregard Parish, is a popular destination for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.

In terms of education, Beauregard Parish is served by the Beauregard Parish School Board, which oversees a system of public schools that serve students from pre-kindergarten through high school. The parish is also home to several private schools, including the First Baptist Christian School and the South Beauregard Christian Academy. Overall, Beauregard Parish is a diverse and vibrant community with a strong economy, beautiful natural surroundings, and a strong commitment to education and community development.