Few can compare to the accomplishments of Caroline Dormon. If you’ve never heard of her, strap in. Not only was she a horticulturist, historian, archaeologist, and author (just to name a few), but she’s considered by many to be Louisiana’s first conservationist, and her efforts helped establish the Kisatchie National Forest and also what would become Louisiana State Arboretum. If that’s not enough, she was also the first female employee of the United States Forestry Service.

When she died in 1971, she willed her home in Briarwood to the public. Today, the space serves as a nature preserve for the native trees and flowers that she dedicated her life to. If you’ve never visited this hidden gem, you’re in for a special treat.

You’ll find the Caroline Dormon Nature Preserve on the northern edge of the Kisatchie National Forest in Saline, Louisiana.

Richard Johnson/Google

The preserve opens several times a year for visitors to come and experience this hidden oasis.

Briarwood Nature Preserve/Facebook

Since Caroline Dormon dedicated her life to preserving wildflowers native to the south, expect to be met with a beautiful sea of wildflowers when you arrive.

Richard Johnson/Google

Springtime is the best time of year to visit the preserve so you can see all of the beautiful blooms.

Brian Cockrell/Google

The trails will lead you through the forest in what can only be described as enchanting.

Briarwood Nature Preserve/Facebook

So peaceful and relaxing, it’s certainly a spot you could see yourself exploring for a few hours.

Briarwood Nature Preserve/Facebook A recent (and rare) snowstorm makes these longleaf pines sparkle against the pond.

The preserve is open to the public in March, April, May, October, and November.

Briarwood Nature Preserve/Facebook

While you’re there, be sure to pop into the Log House Museum to learn more about the history of Briarwood.

Briarwood Nature Preserve/Facebook

For more information, be sure to check out its website and give it a follow on Facebook.

Richard Johnson/Google

Briarwood Nature Preserve/Facebook

Brian Cockrell/Google

A recent (and rare) snowstorm makes these longleaf pines sparkle against the pond.

Have you ever visited the Caroline Dormon Nature Preserve? Let us know in the comments below!

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Address: Briarwood: Caroline Dormon Nature Preserve, 216 Caroline Dorman Rd, Saline, LA 71070, USA