If you could see Nebraska through my eyes, you'd know the gem that is Long Pine.

Located in Brown County, it's hard to imagine that this small town of 300 was once the hot place to be. Home of the Hidden Paradise Resort, which opened in 1912, the area drew in tourists and locals of all kinds, including Lawrence Welk, who brought his band to play there. Complete with a heated indoor bath house, more than 30 cabins, a carousel and a dance pavilion, the Hidden Paradise was one of the hippest places in Nebraska. However, those party-filled days are long gone.

Still, Long Pine continues to draw in a different crowd looking for peace, nature and beauty. Long Pine State Recreation Area is at the top of my list for best places to camp. Though not large, the park is located in a valley filled with pine trees. It's far enough away from Highway 20 that visitors can easily succumb to a deep sense of escape. A spring-fed creek filled with rainbow and brown trout meanders through the park. At night, you can hear the creek babble from your tent, which lulls you into a peaceful sleep. In the summer, Long Pine Creek is a popular destination for tubers looking for a way to cool off, while trout fishermen come to enjoy its cold water year-round. This state recreation area abounds with wildlife: deer, turkey, song birds, rabbits ... I also enjoy the park during the slower months of winter. When there's snow, the quietness and beauty is unmatched to other parts of the year. On a clear, dark night, the stars are beautiful.

My name is Jenny and this is Long Pine State Recreation Area through my eyes.