St. Joseph is a tiny little town in northeastern Louisiana that’s hiding a hidden gem that’s perfect for a fall outing. Often called St. Joe, this unique town was actually developed not that long ago, in 1843. Even though that’s more than 175 years ago, it’s still 125 years after New Orleans was founded, not much more than 200 miles away.

The town was developed by European-American settlers around a traditional New England-style village green, and not long after it was founded, St. Joe became a major landing route across the Mighty Mississippi for the Confederacy’s Trans-Mississippi Department from 1862 to 1865.

There are several historic buildings peppered around that are worthy of a day trip, including the entire downtown portion of Plank Road, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. For those seeking a little outdoor adventure, you’re in for a treat! St. Joe is home to Lake Bruin State Park, one of the most underrated parks in Louisiana, and it’s ideal for a fun fall exploration.

Clocking in at a mere 53 acres, Lake Bruin State Park is a tiny but mighty state park that packs a punch, even with its small size.
Lake Bruin State Park/Facebook
Originally developed as a fish hatchery in 1928, the park is nestled around (and named for) Lake Bruin, a 3,000-acre oxbow lake just off of the Mississippi River.
Lake Bruin State Park/Facebook
So, of course, fishing is a popular pastime at this picture-perfect park.
Lake Bruin State Park/Facebook
There are three fishing piers and a boat launch for those looking to catch their record weights for largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegills.
But even if you're not there to drop a line, there's still plenty to enjoy.
Lake Bruin State Park/Facebook

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Just walking along the piers is a breath of fresh air.
Peggy Carstens/Google
There are plenty of picnic benches to sit for a spell and admire the view.
Derek Foret/Google
Playgrounds for the little ones ensure everyone has a blast here.
Lake Bruin State Park/Facebook
Want to extend your stay? You can always rent a cabin!
John Hazlett/Google
Each cabin can sleep up to eight people and comes with everything you need. Just bring some food, and you're ready for a relaxing weekend in the great outdoors.
Fall is a great time to really get outdoors and do some camping, and the park offers several primitive camping sights as well as RV slots.
Matthaus Pfatschbacher/Google
With the cooler temperatures, those pesky bugs are at bay, meaning you can enjoy a night of fresh air sleeping under the stars. Sounds magical, right?

Ready to book your stay? Head over to Lake Bruin’s website for rates and availability. If you’ve ever visited Lake Bruin State Park or St. Joseph, tell us about it in the comments below!

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Featured Addresses
Lake Bruin State Park, 201 State Park Rd, St Joseph, LA 71366, USA