About the Area
Big Oak Tree State Park offers a glimpse of what southeast Missouri would have looked like to the first explorers. You will notice first that the canopy above your head is much higher than what you’re used to seeing. The oak and hickory trees form a canopy that averages more than 120 feet in height. There are two state record trees and even one national champion in this park alone. Ninety percent of the park is designated as a Missouri Natural Area because of its rarity and value in preserving this significant representation of Missouri's natural heritage. A self-guided boardwalk trail takes visitors from the parking lot through a cypress swamp to the man-made Big Oak Lake. This cypress swamp is the only wetland of its kind found in Missouri. As you wind your way through the towering trees, look for Prothonotory Warbler, Cerulean Warbler, Red-shouldered Hawk, Mississippi Kite, and Fish Crow. Wood Duck, Barred Owl, Tree Swallow, Hooded Warbler, and Pileated Woodpecker are also common sites in the park. After you are done birding, have a picnic in the shade under the lofty canopy and submit your bird checklist to eBird.
Get on I-55 South. Follow I-55 S and I-57 N/US-60 E to MO-105 S in Tywappity Township. Take exit 10 from I-57 N/US-60 E. Drive to MO-102 E in James Bayou Township. Turn right onto MO-105 S, then turn left onto MO-102 E.
Your best bet for dining and lodging accommodations can be found in Cape Girardeau. Andy’s Frozen Custard, a local favorite, is a great treat after a hot afternoon out birding. Cape also offers a wide range of local restaurants to satisfy the pickiest of eaters. Aside from dining and lodging, Cape also offers a variety of museums, parks, and other attractions. You will see much more than birds at the Lazy L Safari Park, where kids are encouraged stop and feed the menagerie. Nearby East Prairie is much closer option, but does not offer lodging. If you’re still up for more birding, visit the nearby Ten Mile Pond Conservation Area.