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Discover the Best Things to Do in Rockport, Texas for Nature Lovers

RockportFulton
Feb 16, 2023
7 min read

Updated: Mar 15, 2023

Are you a nature lover looking for the perfect destination for your next vacation? Look no further than Rockport, Texas! With its abundance of natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and outdoor recreation opportunities, Rockport is the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature and discover all that the great outdoors has to offer.

In this article, we'll share our top recommendations for the best things to do in Rockport, Texas for nature lovers.

Bent Oaks Rookery Park Rockport Texas USA — Bent Oaks Rookery Park

Rockport Texas as a nature destination

Rockport, Texas is the perfect nature destination for travelers looking to explore and appreciate the great outdoors. Nestled on the Gulf of Mexico, just 190 miles south of Austin Texas. Rockport offers miles of coastline, warm sea breezes, clean coastal waters, and abundant wildlife ideal for you to explore.

Sunset over Copany Bay in Aransas County Texas — Copano Bay Sunsets

Nature lovers can enjoy activities from fishing and kayaking, to birdwatching and hiking. The area features lush green parks and nature preserves as well as charming coastal town atmospheres with plenty of waterfront restaurants and local attractions as well.

Tule Creek in Rockport Texas — Tule Creek

With its picturesque vistas, stunning sunsets, fascinating wildlife, and incredible natural beauty, Rockport Fulton is a wonderful place for visitors to enjoy all that nature has to offer.

Visit the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge

The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is a must-see for anyone visiting Rockport, especially for those who love wildlife. The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is perhaps best known as the principal wintering ground for the only natural flock of whooping cranes in the world, as well as a variety of other bird species, mammals, and reptiles. Take a guided tour or hike one of the many trails to get up close and personal with the area's natural inhabitants. In fact, the refuge consists of a total of 115,324 expansive acres.

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge Observation Tower

For those who don't necessarily want to go walk around the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge offers a driving trail where an abundance of wildlife and untouched wilderness can be seen from the comfort of your vehicle.

Here is a detailed map of the refuge:

ANWR Trail Map and Guide

To learn more about the ANWR check out our detailed Blog Article called:

Exploring the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge: A Haven for Wildlife and Outdoor Enthusiasts (rockportfulton.com)

Also if you want to take a boat tour around the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge the two best guides are:

Explore the Rockport Beach Park

For those looking for some fun in the sun, Rockport Beach Park is the perfect destination. With its pristine sandy beaches, calm waters, and abundant marine life, this park is a great spot for swimming, fishing, boating, and other water-based activities. You can also take a stroll along the boardwalk or have a picnic with friends and family.

Rockport Beach Park in Rockport, Texas — Rockport Beach Texas

I mean there aren't enough good things to say about Rockport Beach Park. There is nature galore and is famous for being one of the Cleanest and most well-kept beaches in the United States.

Great place for families and kids.

Pirate Shop Playground at Rockport Beach — Pirate Shop Playground

Check out our Virtual Tour image. You can move the picture around with your finger or mouse and click on an icon for more information or click on a box with a circle to take you to another spot to explore more things around Rockport Fulton.

Experience the Fulton Mansion State Historic Site

For those interested in history and architecture, the Fulton Mansion State Historic Site is a must-visit. This stunning 19th-century mansion is set on the shores of Aransas Bay and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and grounds. Take a guided tour to learn more about the mansion's history, architecture, and the people who lived there.

Go Birding at the Goose Island State Park

With over 300 bird species recorded in the area, Goose Island State Park is a birdwatcher's paradise. You can also explore the park's hiking trails, kayak in the bay, or camp overnight to experience the natural beauty of the park up close. They have a great pier for fishing as well.

Here is a list of some of the birds you might encounter;

Mottled Duck, Redhead, Common Goldeneye, Brown Pelican, American White Pelican, Double Crested Cormorant, Neotropic Cormorant, American Bittern, Great Egret, Great Blue Heron, Snowy Egret, Little Blue Heron, Tricolored Heron, Reddish Egret, Green Heron, Black Crowned Night- Heron, Yellow Crowned Night -Heron, White Ibis, White-Faced Ibis, Roseate Spoonbill, White-tailed Hawk, Osprey, Crested Caracara, Sora, Clapper Rail, Purple Gallinule, Sandhill Crane, Whooping Crane, Black-bellied, Plover, American Golden-Plover, Piping Plover, American Oystercatcher, Black-necked Stilt, Spotted Sandpiper, Marbled Godwit, Long-billed Curlew, Ruddy Turnstone, Whimbrel, Least Sandpiper, Laughing Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Caspian Tern, Royal Tern, and Sandwich Tern.

Take a Fishing Charter to Copano or Aransas Bay

For those who love fishing, a charter in Copano Bay or Aransas Bay is a must-do. Rockport is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, and with a fishing charter, you can experience the thrill of catching a variety of species, including redfish, trout, and flounder.

Todd Adams and Johnny Depp on a fishing trip in Aransas Bay — Professional Local Guide Todd Adams and Guest

Going out on a fishing charter or guided tour is a great way to explore the local area, no matter what your experience level is. For experienced fishermen, it's an opportunity to target the bigger fish and get some professional tips for the best bait and tackle in the area. Meanwhile, if you're new to fishing, it's an excellent way to learn from an expert guide who can show you the ropes and get you familiarized with common local species. Guides will also provide additional benefits such as setting up gear and helping you haul in bigger catches. Even for those who are just looking for a fun day on the water, fishing charters can help create lifelong memories by sharing stories or even taking pictures of your catch.

RockportFulton.com keeps and maintains a list of only 4-5 star rated local guides. The professional local fishing guides do not pay to be put on this list but are only based on their star rating by the customers they have taken out. These are the best of the best as far as fishing the local waters.

Rockport Texas Top Fishing Guides

Water activities available in the area

The Rockport area offers a variety of water activities for visitors to enjoy. Kayaking is a popular pastime, with the nearby Aransas National Wildlife Refuge providing easy access to kayak trails and boat launches. Stand-up paddle boarding is also an option, with many rental companies offering lessons and equipment rentals in the area. Other activities such as swimming, or dolphin sighting are available depending on the season. With its many varied attractions, Rockport is sure to keep any visitor entertained on the water.

Looking for an adventure on the water in Rockport? Check out Whooping Crane Birding Boat Photography Tours (texasbirdingphotos.net). This tour takes small groups on a guided journey through the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, giving you a chance to explore the area's diverse wildlife and beauty while learning about the local ecology. You'll have the opportunity to see blue herons, brown pelicans, and other species of birds as well as hear some of the local folklore with Captain Tommy Moore - all while enjoying your own private boat excursion!

Enjoy the Texas Maritime Museum

For those interested in maritime history, the Texas Maritime Museum is a must-see. With its exhibits on the state's seafaring history, including fishing, shipping, and oil exploration, the museum offers a fascinating insight into Texas's connection to the sea.

Texas Maritime Museum and Rockport Beach Park — Texas Maritime Museum

Other outdoor activities available in Rockport Texas

Other outdoor activities: In addition to the activities listed above, Rockport has several other outdoor activities to enjoy. Golfers will have a couple of courses in the area Rockport Country Club and Live Oak Country Club. Both courses are well-maintained and set up for pros and amateurs.

Here are the links if you want to check them out!

Final Thoughts

With its abundance of natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and outdoor recreation opportunities, Rockport, Texas, is the perfect destination for nature lovers. Whether you're interested in birdwatching, fishing, hiking, or just enjoying some time in the great outdoors, there's something for everyone in Rockport.

We hope you found our recommendations helpful, and we invite you to come and discover all that Rockport has to offer.

Another great resource to explore is Aransas Pathways They have a great system of trails and birding spots set up for visitors to enjoy.

Click below to download their maps and information brochure:

Aransas Pathways Map

Check out their website as well:

https://aransaspathways.com/

Thanks for reading through this and hope you found the information useful and insightful.

Who we are

The RockportFulton.com website is a comprehensive guide to the towns of Rockport and Fulton, Texas. The website provides a wealth of information about the local area, including events, activities, and attractions.

Arial View of the Rockport Texas Waterfront — Rockport Texas USA

Visitors to the website can find information about local festivals, markets, and events, as well as details about local businesses, restaurants, and accommodations. The website also features a calendar of events, so visitors can easily plan their trip and make the most of their time in Rockport and Fulton.

In addition to providing information about the local area.

RockportFulton.com is also a great resource for those who are interested in the history and culture of Rockport and Fulton. The website includes articles and photos that highlight the rich history of the towns and their unique character.

Overall, the RockportFulton.com website is an excellent resource for anyone planning a trip to Rockport and Fulton, or for those who simply want to learn more about these charming coastal towns.

The Town of Fulton Texas at sunset — The Town of Fulton Texas

Here are some additional links to help you explore the area

Thank you for visiting our page:

We hope you found this page both interesting and informative. Use RockportFulton.com as your personal local guide to everything in the Rockport, Texas, and Aransas County area. We hope you remember us and come back and browse the many topics and areas of interest found on our page.

Please visit us on Facebook at https://facebook.com/rockportfulton or on Instagram at Instagram/com/rockportfulton1

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Aransas National Wildlife Refuge: A Haven for Wildlife and a Destination for Nature Lovers

RockportFulton
Jan 10, 2023
11 min read

Updated: Jan 13, 2023

Introduction

The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is a very special place. Located on the Gulf Coast of Texas, it sits just north of beautiful Rockport, Texas. It is the home and a federally protected area that is dedicated to the conservation and protection of fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats. National wildlife refuges like Aransas are important for the protection and conservation of our world and our country's natural resources and biodiversity.

Established in 1937, the refuge has a rich history of preserving and enhancing the natural resources within its boundaries. They also provide recreational opportunities for the public to enjoy. It is a haven for wildlife and a destination for nature lovers alike.

In this article, we will explore its wonder, history, work, and legacy. Let's dive right in and learn more......

Overview of the Refuge

The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge also referred to as ANWR, is the largest managed Fish and Wildlife Service-protected area in the great state of Texas. Its jurisdiction spans three counties: Aransas County, Refugio County, and Calhoun County.

The Refuge is a federally protected wildlife sanctuary under the protection, direct supervision, and jurisdiction of The United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS or FWS). It is an agency within the United States Department of the Interior. Which is dedicated to the management of fish, wildlife, and natural habitats in the United States. The mission of the agency is "working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.

The Federally Protected Refuge is made up of five units. Two of which (the Aransas and Tatton Units) are contiguous and located on the mainland. The Aransas Unit is the original part of the refuge. Its territory spans 47,261 acres, while the Tatton Unit is 7,568 acres. Then we have The Lamar and Myrtle Foester Whitmire Units which are smaller, respectively covering 979 acres and 3,440 acres.

The largest unit is the Matagorda Island Unit, which encompasses a 56,683-acre natural area that is managed as a unit of the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge and is an overlay to a state Wildlife Management Area. Texas Parks and Wildlife has the lead responsibility for public use management on the island, while the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is responsible for wildlife and habitat management.

In total, the refuge covers 115,324 expansive acres.

Overview Map of the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge

ANWR features a diverse range of habitats, including oak uplands, grasslands, ponds, lakes, salt marshes, and freshwater marshes. This wide variety of habitats has contributed to the refuge's impressive species count. In fact, the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge has one of the highest species counts in the national refuge system. Making it one of the most biodiverse national refugees in the United States.

Taking all that into account, The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is perhaps best known as the principal wintering ground for the only natural flock of whooping cranes in the world. These majestic birds make their way to the refuge each year, seeking out the warm, sheltered waters of the Gulf Coast as a respite from the colder temperatures further north. In addition to the whooping cranes, the refuge also attracts almost 400 other species of waterfowl and birds, including geese, ducks, pelicans, herons, egrets, gulls, sundial cranes, roseate spoonbills, ibises, quail, osprey, and a variety of migrating songbirds and shorebirds.

But the wildlife at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge isn't limited to birds. The refuge is also home to a number of other species, including deer, javelinas (peccaries), armadillos, alligators, and turkeys. With so much diversity packed into one place, it's no wonder that the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the natural beauty of the Texas Gulf Coast.

American Alligator

Photo by Clinton & Charles Robertson from RAF Lakenheath, UK & San Marcos, TX, USA & UK, CC BY-SA 2.0

History of the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge

The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge has a rich history dating back to the 1930s. The refuge was established as a wintering ground for migratory birds, particularly the whooping crane. It was created in response to the significant loss of wetland habitats and declining populations of migratory birds along the Gulf of Mexico flyway.

Photo by Robert W. Hines of Whooping Cranes — Photo by Robert W. Hines

On December 31, 1937, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 7784 to establish the Aransas Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, a protected area for migratory birds and other wildlife to breed and thrive. In 1940, Roosevelt issued a proclamation changing the name of the refuge to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge.

In the autumn of 1938, a group of young men and women from the Civilian Conservation Corps arrived in Austwell, Texas, ready to make a difference. They were tasked with building infrastructure and facilities for the newly established Refuge. They worked tirelessly to construct roads, ditches, and firebreaks, as well as residential facilities for the refuge staff.

One of the most impressive feats of engineering undertaken was the construction of the spillway for Burgentine Lake, a major resting area for migratory waterfowl. This impressive structure would help to regulate the water levels in the lake, ensuring that it remained a vital stopover for the many birds that passed through the refuge.

But the men and women didn't stop there. They also worked to improve the road connecting the refuge to the nearby town of Austwell, grading it and making it more passable for vehicles.

Through their hard work and dedication, these young men helped to lay the foundation for the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, a place that would become a haven for countless species of fish, wildlife, and plants. Their legacy lives on today, as the refuge continues to serve as an important destination for those seeking to experience the beauty and diversity of the Texas Gulf Coast.

Prior to its establishment as a refuge, the land had been used for ranching and farming. In the early 20th century, the federal government began purchasing land in the area with the goal of establishing a refuge for migratory birds. The refuge was officially established in 1937 and has since played a vital role in the conservation and protection of wildlife and habitats along the Texas coast.

Throughout its history, the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge has undergone several notable changes and events. In the 1970s, the refuge expanded to include additional land, increasing its size to over 115,324 acres. In the 1980s, the refuge was designated as a critical habitat for the whooping crane, further solidifying its importance for the conservation of this endangered species. Today, the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge continues to be a vital location for the protection and conservation of a wide variety of wildlife and habitats.

Conservation

Today, the refuge is a part of the National Wildlife Refuge System, which administers a network of lands and waters for the conservation, management, and restoration of fish, wildlife, and plant resources.

Conservation and protection are key priorities at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge works with a number of organizations, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, to protect and conserve natural resources within its boundaries. Efforts to enhance and restore habitats are also an important part of the refuge's mission. These efforts help to ensure that the resources at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge are preserved and protected for future generations to enjoy.

In addition to its conservation efforts, the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge also plays a vital role in educating the public about the importance of protecting and preserving natural resources. The refuge offers a variety of educational programs for school groups and other organizations, as well as interpretive exhibits and guided tours for individual visitors. Through these efforts, the refuge aims to raise awareness about the importance of conservation and encourage the public to take an active role in protecting and preserving the natural world.

Photo by U.S. Department of the Interior, CC BY-SA 2.0 — U.S. Department of the Interior, CC BY-SA 2.0

The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is one such refuge that uses a variety of land management tools to preserve local plants and animals, including prescribed burns, wetland management, protection of native species, and trapping.

Prescribed burns are used to mimic natural fires that clear old vegetation, helping native plants regenerate and local wildlife thrive.

Wetland management involves adjusting water levels in moist soil impoundments to provide a habitat for wintering waterfowl and breeding mottled ducks.

The refuge also works to control invasive and exotic plant and animal species, and trapping is used to manage certain species populations for the benefit of the overall ecosystem. The refuge also offers recreational activities such as hiking and birdwatching, and it relies on donations and volunteers to support its mission.

The Whooping Crane

As we mentioned earlier in the article The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is perhaps best known as the principal wintering ground for the only natural flock of whooping cranes in the world.

Klaus Nigge of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Headquarters, CC BY 2.0

The whooping crane (Grus Americana) is a truly majestic bird, with its striking white plumage, distinctive red crown, and long, dark bill. Standing at an impressive height of up to five feet, it is the tallest bird in North America, earning it its name for the whooping sound it is known to make.

Sasata, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Unfortunately, the whooping crane is also an endangered species, having been pushed to the brink of extinction by unregulated hunting and loss of habitat. By 1941, there were just 15 wild and two captive whooping cranes remaining. However, thanks to conservation efforts, the total number of whooping cranes has now exceeded 800, including the surviving migratory population, as well as three reintroduced flocks and birds in captivity. These majestic birds make their winter home at the refuge, where they can be observed by visitors during their annual winter migration.

While adult whooping cranes are white with a red crown and a long, dark, pointed bill, immature birds are distinctive cinnamon brown. In flight, these birds are particularly impressive, with their long necks held straight and their long, dark legs trailing behind. The black wing tips of adult whooping cranes are also visible during flight.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Here, these birds rely on a diet that is largely comprised of blue crabs, which make up as much as 90% of their energy intake in some winters. This highlights the important role that the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge plays in the conservation and protection of these magnificent birds, as well as the diverse array of species that call this place home.

Their preservation has been due to a worldwide effort by conservation groups like the International Crane Foundation. An excellent organization dedicated to protecting and bringing back this great treasure. Other threatened and endangered species such as the Kemp's ridley sea turtle, and the American Alligator can also be found at the refuge as well.

National Park Service, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Here is a complete list of all the different species found at the Refuge:

Featured Species

Recreational activities at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge

The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is also a destination for nature lovers looking to enjoy a variety of recreational activities. Visitors to the refuge can participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and fishing. The refuge is also a popular location for kayaking, with several launch sites available within its boundaries.

In addition to these outdoor activities, the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge also offers guided tours and educational programs for visitors. These programs can provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the refuge's unique wildlife and habitats. For example, the refuge offers guided bird walks and nature photography workshops, as well as educational talks and presentations.

While the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is a great destination for recreational activities, it is important to remember to minimize the impact on the wildlife and natural habitats within the refuge. Responsible recreation involves respecting the refuge's rules and regulations, staying on designated trails, and leaving the area as you found it. By following these guidelines, visitors can help to preserve the beauty and natural resources of the refuge for future generations.

Admission to the preserve is free. Pets are not allowed. A trail map and guide are available here.

Trail Map and Guide

Check out our Calander of Events Page for special event Times & Schedules

Rockport Fulton Calendar of Events

How to support the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge

There are many ways to support the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge and its efforts to protect and conserve the unique wildlife and habitats within its boundaries. One way to get involved is to volunteer your time and skills at the refuge. The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge often has opportunities for volunteers to assist with tasks such as habitat restoration, trail maintenance, and educational programs.

Another way to support the refuge is to make a financial contribution. Donations to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge can be used to fund conservation and management efforts, as well as educational programs and events. You can also support the refuge by becoming a member of the Friends of Aransas National Wildlife Refuge group. This organization is dedicated to supporting the refuge and its mission through a variety of activities and initiatives.

There are also many ongoing conservation and management efforts at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge that the public can support. For example, the refuge is currently working to restore the habitat for the endangered whooping crane, as well as other threatened and endangered species. The refuge is also conducting research projects to better understand the needs and behaviors of these species, with the goal of improving their conservation efforts. By supporting these efforts, you can play a role in the protection and conservation of the unique wildlife and habitats found at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge.

Getting to the Refuge

From the South: Follow Highway 35N to the FM 774 exit. Turn right on FM 774 and go approximately 6 miles, winding through the farm fields. Turn right again on FM 2040. Drive another 6 miles to the Refuge gate. Go to the Visitor Contact Station to register. 

From the North: Travel south on Hwy 35 to Tivoli. Continue past Tivoli approximately 1 mile to the FM 239 exit (on your left). Follow FM 239 to Austwell. Upon entering Austwell, FM 239 turns into FM 774 at the curve. Continue on FM 774. Follow 774 and take a right at the stop sign. At the end of the street, take a right again. As you exit Austwell, drive ½ mile to the FM 2040 intersection. Turn left on FM 2040 and drive 6 miles to the Refuge gate. Go to the Visitor Contact Station to register.

The GPS coordinates for the refuge’s main entrance are 28.313449, -96.804022.

Auto Tour and Trails Daily 30 minutes before sunrise - 30 minutes after sunset

Visitor Center Daily 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, Closed Federal Holidays

Conclusion

The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is a unique and important destination that is home to a wide variety of wildlife and habitats. Located on the central coast of Texas, the refuge is a vital location for the protection and conservation of our country's natural resources and biodiversity. From the endangered whooping crane to the Kemp's ridley sea turtle, the refuge is home to many threatened and endangered species that rely on the refuge for their survival.

In addition to its importance for wildlife and conservation, the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is also a destination for nature lovers to enjoy a variety of recreational activities, such as hiking, birdwatching, and fishing. The refuge also offers guided tours and educational programs, providing visitors with the opportunity to learn more about the unique wildlife and habitats found within its boundaries.

If you have the chance, we encourage you to visit the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge and experience all that it has to offer. And if you want to do your part to support the refuge and its mission, there are many ways to get involved, such as volunteering or making a donation. Every little bit helps to ensure that the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge remains a haven for wildlife and a destination for nature lovers for years to come.

To learn more about the Refuge and make plans visit their website

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge

Who we are

In addition to providing information about the local area.

Overall, the RockportFulton.com website is an excellent resource for anyone planning a trip to Rockport and Fulton, or for those who simply want to learn more about these charming coastal towns.

Here are some additional links to help you explore the area

The Big Tree

RockportFulton
Feb 12, 2021
4 min read

Updated: Jan 4, 2023

The “Big Tree”, Is located in Aransas County on the Lamar Peninsula near the town of Rockport, Texas. It is considered one of the most famous live oaks in the world after being named “Texas State Champion Virginia Live Oak” (Quercus virginianus) in 1969. The “Big Tree” is still thought to be one of the largest live oak specimens in the United States.

The Big Tree in Lamar, Texas is a beloved local landmark and a must-see destination for visitors to the area. In this post, we'll take a closer look at the history, description, and cultural significance of the Big Tree.

The Big Tree is a beloved local landmark and a symbol of the community's history and culture.

Despite the widespread, historically significant devastation of the surrounding region, the “Big Tree” was relatively unscathed by Hurricane Harvey, a category 4 hurricane that hit Rockport Texas on August 25, 2017

Visiting the “Big Tree” today is easy with available roadside parking. The base of the tree is cordoned off to dissuade climbers, but visitors are nonetheless able to stand below the crown to appreciate the tree’s massive size.

The Big Tree is an impressive sight, with a massive trunk and a canopy that spans over 100 feet. The tree is located in a small park in Lamar, surrounded by a grassy lawn and a wooden fence. Visitors can walk around the tree and marvel at its size, or rest on one of the benches located nearby.

If you would like to visit the big tree here is a map of how to get there:

Map to get to the Big Tree

According to climatologists, the “Big Tree” has survived between forty and fifty major hurricanes, including the most recent, Harvey, and numerous floods, droughts, and wildfires.

The Texas Forest Service estimates the tree to be over 1,000 years old, while other recent estimates place it nearer to 2,000 years old. Also known as Bishop Oak and Lamar Oak, the “Big Tree” is a charter member (#16) of the Live Oak Society and has been the subject of one of Ripley’s “Believe It or Not” cartoons. The “Big Tree” is possibly the oldest extant live oak in the world. It possesses a circumference of over 35 feet and is more than 45 feet tall, while the crown’s spread is 90 feet.

“Record” or “champion” trees are determined by a cumulative measure of their girth, their spread, and their height, however, the near-continuous Gulf breeze limits the height of the “Big Tree”; therefore, there exist many other live oak specimens that are actually taller, but once girth is factored in, that measure makes the “Big Tree” the second-largest live oak in Texas.

The “Big Tree” statistics:

Trunk circumference: 35 feet 1.75 inches or 10.71 meters
Average trunk diameter: 11 feet 2.25 inches or 3.41 meters
Crown spread: 89 feet or 27.1 meters
Height: 44 feet or 13.4 meters
Age: Exact age is unknown – but it is centuries old.

Here is what some of its many visitors have had to say about it:

Google review of The Big Tree by John T. Ferguson ★★★★★ “This is the one of the biggest trees in texas. So it’s really big. it’s really nice to look at. There are whooping cranes around in the area if you’re interested in that. The only thing that I would ding them on is there’s no restroom.”

https://goo.gl/maps/RRuyeVouNPYkDuDw6

Google review of The Big Tree by Shirley Roberg ★★★★★ “This was an amazing must see! Pictures and words alone won’t do the trick”

Who we are

In addition to providing information about the local area.

Overall, the RockportFulton.com website is an excellent resource for anyone planning a trip to Rockport and Fulton, or for those who simply want to learn more about these charming coastal towns.

Here are some additional links to help you explore the area

Thank you for visiting our page: Check out our new shop:

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We are RockportFulton.com your personal guide to everything in the beautiful Aransas County of Texas and we have a lot for you! Be sure to visit our Home Page, where there will be lots more information available on all things local including events going on now or coming soon that might pique your interest as well as fun facts about this area’s rich history, and things to explore.

Visit our website and plan your next trip down south!!!

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