Goose Island State Park Big Tree
Home to Texas's oldest tree, this park offers coastal camping, fishing, and abundant wildlife on 320 acres of bayfront beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Goose Island State Park Big Tree
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to Texas's oldest tree, this park offers coastal camping, fishing, and abundant wildlife on 320 acres of bayfront beauty.
"One of the best state parks we have visited, with deer everywhere and a chance to say hello to the big tree."
🎯 Visit the Big Tree First
Don't miss the star attraction! The Big Tree is a must-see, estimated to be over 1,000 years old.
🦟 Pack Mosquito Repellent
Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially near the water. Bring strong repellent for a more comfortable visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Big Tree
Goose Island State Park
Stand in awe of Texas's oldest tree, a live oak over 1,000 years old. Its massive trunk and sprawling branches tell tales of centuries past.
Fishing Pier
Aransas Bay
Cast a line from the long fishing pier extending into Aransas Bay. Enjoy the coastal breeze and the chance to catch local marine life.
Wildlife Viewing
Throughout the park
Spot deer grazing in wooded areas and a variety of bird species, especially near the bays. It's a nature lover's paradise.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Big Tree's Majesty
Coastal Camping & Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Visit the Big Tree First
Don't miss the star attraction! The Big Tree is a must-see, estimated to be over 1,000 years old.
🦟 Pack Mosquito Repellent
Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially near the water. Bring strong repellent for a more comfortable visit.
🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear
The park is known for its fishing opportunities. The long pier is a popular spot for anglers.
🦌 Look for Deer
Deer are frequently spotted throughout the park, often grazing in the wooded areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Visit the Big Tree First
Don't miss the star attraction! The Big Tree is a must-see, estimated to be over 1,000 years old.
🦟 Pack Mosquito Repellent
Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially near the water. Bring strong repellent for a more comfortable visit.
🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear
The park is known for its fishing opportunities. The long pier is a popular spot for anglers.
🦌 Look for Deer
Deer are frequently spotted throughout the park, often grazing in the wooded areas.
⛺ Reserve Campsites Early
Camping spots, especially waterfront ones, fill up quickly. Book in advance, particularly for weekends.
👂 Earplugs for Light Sleepers
Fan boats can be loud early in the morning. Earplugs are recommended if you're a light sleeper.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Goose Island State Park is praised for its natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and the iconic Big Tree. Visitors enjoy the peaceful camping, fishing opportunities, and family-friendly atmosphere. However, some guests have encountered issues with unfriendly staff at the entrance gate and noise from fan boats early in the morning.
"Sites are set up a little weird, withv the tables on opposite sides, but my kids loved this park. Beautiful views. Pictures are of it campsite in relation to the water. Only one hiking trail, and it was very flat. Extremely kid friendly, very long fishing pier."
Travis Deibert
"We love it can't wait to come back. Very clean well taken cared of. Wooded camp sites very private and secluded. DEER Everywhere. Fact is it saw more deer than anything else. Fishing was good wrong bait I'm sure would have been dolphins but not when we're fishing had one stayed at pier entire night. All in all one of best state parks we have visited. And don't forget to say hello to the big tree."
Bo Hundt
"If you have the opportunity to visit and stay. . . You should. The park has numerous trails, lots of dear, plenty of fishing spots and spots to hook up your travel trailer. Every area is so clean, big and open areas. The restrooms are clean! Staff that we came across were all very nice."
M Reyes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Goose Island State Park is located north of Rockport, Texas. You can reach it by car via Highway 35. The park entrance is well-marked. +1
Public transport options directly to the park are limited. It's best to travel by car. Consider ride-sharing services if you're in Rockport.
The park is relatively compact. Driving is the easiest way to get between different areas like the Big Tree, campsites, and the fishing pier.
The closest major airport is Corpus Christi International Airport (CRP), which is about a 45-minute drive from Goose Island State Park.
Yes, you can use GPS. The address is 202 S Palmetto St, Rockport, TX 78382.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee per vehicle. Texas State Parks often have a daily entrance fee, which can vary. It's recommended to check the official Texas Parks & Wildlife website for current pricing.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for camping and during peak seasons or weekends. You can book online through the Texas Parks & Wildlife website.
Goose Island State Park is typically open year-round from 8 AM to 10 PM. However, camping areas are accessible 24/7. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date hours.
While some parks may accept cash, it's best to have a credit card or check the park's policy beforehand. Online reservations are the most reliable method.
Texas State Parks sometimes offer discounts or passes. Inquire with Texas Parks & Wildlife or check their website for any available programs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Activities include visiting the Big Tree, fishing from the pier, camping, birdwatching, hiking short trails, and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Yes, it's very kid-friendly! Kids enjoy spotting deer, exploring the Big Tree, and fishing. The park offers a safe environment for outdoor fun.
You can commonly see white-tailed deer, various shorebirds, wading birds like flamingos, and other coastal wildlife.
There are short nature trails, including one that leads to the Big Tree. They are generally flat and easy to walk.
Swimming is not the primary activity here, as the park is more focused on fishing and wildlife. The water is bay water, which can be shallow and silty.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within the park itself. You'll need to bring your own food and drinks or dine in nearby Rockport.
Rockport offers a variety of seafood restaurants and casual dining options. Consider places like The Boiling Pot for local flavors. +1
Yes, picnic areas are available. It's a great way to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
While there might be a small park store for essentials, it's advisable to bring most of your food and supplies from Rockport.
Campfires are generally allowed in designated fire rings at campsites, but always check current fire restrictions with park officials.
📸 📸 Photography
The Big Tree is a prime subject. The fishing pier at sunrise or sunset, and the bay views offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! Bring a telephoto lens to capture deer and the diverse birdlife. Early mornings and late afternoons are best for wildlife activity.
Early morning light or late afternoon 'golden hour' can create dramatic lighting on the Big Tree. Midday sun can be harsh.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Texas State Parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check the official park regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for the Big Tree and landscapes. A telephoto lens is useful for wildlife. A tripod can help with low-light shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The park's short, flat trails are easy for little legs to navigate, and spotting deer is always a highlight. Consider bringing bug spray as mosquitoes can be present.
Overall, it's a safe and engaging place for families to enjoy the outdoors and create lasting memories. 🎣 Anglers and Boaters
+1 Many visitors report successful fishing trips. Easy water access and nearby boat ramps enhance the experience for those looking to spend time on the water. Remember to check local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses before your trip. The calm bay waters are perfect for a leisurely day of angling or paddling.
🏕️ Campers Seeking Privacy
Be prepared for potential wind and mosquitoes, especially if camping near the water.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Big Tree
+1 This ancient sentinel has witnessed centuries of Texas history, from Civil War battles to pirate tales along the Gulf Coast. While you can't climb it, standing beneath its vast branches offers a profound connection to nature and the passage of time. +1Visitors are often captivated by the sheer scale and age of the Big Tree. Many express a sense of wonder, imagining the historical events it has silently observed.
+1 While the park has other beautiful oak trees, the Big Tree remains the iconic landmark, drawing visitors from far and wide to marvel at its enduring presence. Remember to respect the roped-off areas around the tree to ensure its preservation for future generations. Coastal Camping and Recreation
+1 Many visitors rave about the wooded campsites which offer more privacy and seclusion. Beyond camping, the park is a haven for fishing enthusiasts. The long fishing pier is a prime spot to cast a line, and the surrounding bays are known for various catches.
+1 For those who enjoy being on the water, kayaking and boating are also popular activities. Be aware that wind can be a factor along the coast, and mosquitoes can be present, especially during warmer months, so packing repellent is advised. Wildlife Encounters
The park is also a birdwatcher's paradise. Its coastal location attracts a variety of shorebirds and wading birds. Keep an eye out for flamingos, herons, and numerous other species, especially near the bay waters.
The natural environment supports a healthy ecosystem, offering ample opportunities for nature photography and observation. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit