MISSISSIPPI                       50 Big Oak Tree

Big Oak Tree Natural Area

A 940-acre part of Big Oak Tree State Park. Boundaries include park land in Sections 3, 10, 11 and 14, T23N, R16E, Bayouville 7.5 min. topographic map. Designated October 21, 1977.

Natural Features--Big Oak Tree Natural Area is a remnant of the vast bottomland forest and swamp that once covered the Mississippi Lowlands Natural Division. An 80-acre portion of the area is virgin wet-mesic bottomland forest. The park, often called "The Park of Champions," has a tree canopy averaging 120 feet with several trees more than 140 feet tall. Nine trees qualify as state champions, including a persimmon which is more than 133 feet tall. The half-mile long boardwalk provides access to points of interest which are interpreted in a self-guiding trail brochure. More than 146 species of birds have been recorded, including the endangered Swainson's warbler and the rare Mississippi kite. Big Oak Tree State Park is owned by the Department of Natural Resources. For further information contact the Park Superintendent, Big Oak Tree State Park, Route 2, Box 343, East Prairie, MO 63845, phone 573/649-3149.

Large Oak at Big Oak Tree Natural Area		Red River Crayfish