Goose Island State Park
Goose Island State Park is home to “The Big Tree“—a 1,000+ year old live oak that’s one of Texas’s largest! Camp bayside under ancient oaks, fish from a 1,620-foot pier (no license needed!), and spot endangered whooping cranes wintering November–April.
⚠️ 2026 Alerts
- Construction: Sites 1-24 improvements, some closures
- Water Conservation: Bring your own water!
- Marsh Restoration: Begins June 2026
The Big Tree
| Stats | Details |
|---|---|
| ⏳ Age | 1,000+ years (some say 2,000!) |
| 📏 Height | 44 feet |
| 👐 Crown Spread | 90 feet |
| 📐 Trunk | 36 feet circumference |
Whooping Cranes
November – April: Endangered whooping cranes winter along the coast (record 557 cranes in 2024-25!). Best viewing: Lamar Beach Road, sunrise/late afternoon. Whooping Crane Festival: Feb 19-22, 2026 in Port Aransas!
Fishing
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 🎣 Pier Length | 1,620 feet! |
| 📜 License | NOT required (pier/shore) |
| 🎣 Pole Limit | 2 max from structure |
Camping
| Type | Sites |
|---|---|
| 🌊 Bayfront | 44 (water/electric) |
| 🌳 Oak Grove | 57 (water/electric) |
| ⛺ Walk-in Tent | 25 |
FAQ
How old is The Big Tree?
Estimated 1,000+ years old (some say up to 2,000!). It’s one of Texas’s largest live oaks—44ft tall, 90ft crown, 36ft trunk circumference. Protected with lightning rod and irrigation system.
When can I see whooping cranes?
November through early April. A record 557 whooping cranes wintered in Texas in 2024-25. Best viewing: Lamar Beach Road at sunrise or late afternoon. Annual Whooping Crane Festival: Feb 19-22, 2026.
Do I need a fishing license?
Not from pier or shore! Within state park boundaries, no license required. Max 2 poles from any structure.
🌳 Ancient Oaks & Whooping Cranes
Visit Texas Parks website.
