Hiking at Camp Salmen Nature Park

Just outside the city limits of Slidell, Louisiana, there lies a new gem for all to enjoy.  You can visit Camp Salmen Nature Park on land that used to house hundreds of Boy Scouts each year for camp. (There’s a lot of history on the Camp Salmen website, including better pictures of a historic building on site that was blocked off for close viewing.)

After driving down what seemed like a rather long, winding road, we arrived at a parking area adjacent to a covered pavilion with restroom facilities. 

Taking a look at a permanent map near trails, we decided upon the route we would walk.

Unfortunately, many of the trails were still under construction when we visited. But, the boys and I were able to see remains of past buildings as well as some waterfront areas along Bayou Liberty. 

 Walking along the boardwalk towards the Bayou had me hearing comments about it looking almost pre-historic with all the vegetation.

I have to admit feeling a bit nostalgic seeing the Bayou with moss hanging down from the trees.  From fourth grade until I left for college, Southeastern Louisiana was my home.

 The large oak trees hold such appeal for young and old.

Under the oak tree in what was probably the parade grounds for the Boy Scout camp, we spotted interesting wildlife…

P was a little disappointed to find that most of the structures from the day of Boy Scouts camping there were gone.  However, a few remained when we visited during our October visit.

I hope we have the opportunity to return the next time we visit Louisiana.  I can envision this being a wonderful place for a respite amid the hustle and bustle of the community.  We’ll just make sure to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy while soaking up the scenery.