What if I told you that less than an hour's drive from New Orleans there is a beautiful little park that's perfect for an afternoon adventure? Camp Salmen Nature Park is one of St. Tammany's best hidden gems, and it's time you carve out some time to explore this enchanting oasis.

Camp Salmen Nature Park was officially opened to the public in 2011, but like so many attractions in Louisiana, this peaceful park has a long history.

The address is 35122 Parish Pkwy, Slidell, LA 70460.

This little oasis in St. Tammany Parish was a Boy Scout summer camp for nearly 60 years.

If you were a Boy Scout, you probably have fond memories of this hidden gem.

Since acquiring the park in 2001, St. Tammany Parish has worked hard to ensure this unique landscape is preserved so future generations can enjoy it.

The park is perfect for recreational use, but it’s also an educational resource and a living museum, home to both restored historic properties and a vast collection of plants and animals which thrive in the habitat.

You’ll want to plan out an entire afternoon to really explore all the park has to offer.

130 acres of enchanting emeralds, bayou views, and more.

For little ones, the 5,334-square-foot playground is always a hit.

More than 185 volunteers came out to help assemble this all-inclusive playground over the course of one week. This playground accommodates children with or without special needs, so kids of all backgrounds can enjoy this massive playground.

Of course, all of the ancient oak trees make great climbing trees.

They're also perfect for escaping the sun on those hot Louisiana days.

Bring lunch for your crew and enjoy a picnic underneath the shade.

There are several picnic benches peppered throughout the park.

There are also three nature trails to explore.

Each one is less than a mile long, so you can mix and match to fit your schedule.

Along the way, you'll be met with beautiful flowers and even some wildlife viewing opportunities!

You never know what you'll see here.

And considering you'll be surrounded by both Bayou Liberty and Goldfish Bayou, you'll have a hard time escaping those beautiful bayou views!

Camp Salmen is open to the public every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 9 a.m. till 4:30 p.m.

Have you ever visited Camp Salmen Nature Park? Let us know in the comments below!