The Secret Garden in Louisiana You’re Guaranteed to Love

Up at the northern tip of Natchitoches Parish in Saline, you'll find Briarwood, a lovely Nature Preserve dedicated to continuing the work Caroline Dorman began many years ago. It's a wonderful area filled with wildflowers natural to the south that are protected in their natural habitat. Let's take a closer look at this fascinating secret garden in Louisiana.

Caroline Dormon was a world-renowned botanist, author, and the first woman employed in forestry in the United States. She's one of my favorite Louisiana figures, and few people know how much she accomplished in her day. Louisiana would look much different without her efforts.

Briarwood was her home, and she gifted it to the public after her death in 1971. Conservationists and horticulturists from all over the world travel to Briarwood to walk the trails and experience this secret garden in Louisiana.

When you visit, you'll love walking through these wild gardens. Many of the wildflowers and trees are rare (and some are endangered), but all seem to thrive in this natural environment that Dormon created. See the beautiful flowers native to the area, like the lovely flowering quince and wild azalea. It's also a great spot for a little birdwatching, and the reflective pool is a magical place to sit with your thoughts.

Thanks to Louisiana's mild climate, there's always something in bloom. Briarwood is truly overflowing with natural beauty. No wonder it's one of the prettiest gardens in Louisiana. Even though it doesn't fall into the traditional garden category, this natural garden is great for photographers hoping to sharpen their skills.

Briarwood is open to the public in March, April, May, October, and November. Guided tours are $12.00 per person. Visit the official Briarwood website to learn more and start planning your adventure today.