The Big Tree of Lamar is one of the most famous in the world.The giant live oak is a charter member of the Live Oak Society of America, and has been the subject of one of Ripley's "Believe It or Not" cartoons.It is measured to be more than 35 feet in circumference, 44 feet in height and has a crown spread of 89 feet. The Texas Forest Service estimates the tree to be over 1,000 years old.
The Big Tree is also known as the Lamar Oak, Bishop's Oak and the Goose Island Oak. It is recognized as the State Champion Coastal live oak. It is said to have been a council tree for the Carancahua Indians and for the white men who came after them.
The Big Tree is located in Goose Island State Park. Take Highway 35 north out of Rockport, cross Copano Causeway, and watch for the sign about half a mile north of the bridge (Park Road 13). Follow the signs, the Big Tree is next to the waterfront.
Goose Island State Park has overnight shelters that can be rented, as well as picnic tables and a boat rental service.