Ellison and I accidentally found the largest Live Oak in Florida.
We had just picked up Ellison from a sleepover (where not a lot of sleep occured - they were up until 4:30!) and Trevor needed to take a work call. I didn't want to keep driving until I knew where we were headed for lunch so I pulled into the next available parking lot where, so randomly, was the largest Live Oak in Florida. Or so said the sign. And when I looked it up, the internet agreed. So, it's official.
Cellon Oak Park is tiny, and I'd never heard of it (which doesn't mean a thing, actually), but it is home to one tremendous tree. Here are its stats - it is a "champion" Live Oak that is 79 feet tall, has a 160 foot crown spread (reach of branches) with a circumference of 29 feet. It's huge, truly beautiful in the most quintessentially Southern way, and perfect for climbing. Which, despite the absolute lack of sleep, Ellison decided she had to do. We had fun reading the names carved into the sides, seeing who could "walk" farthest up the branches and watching more people than I would have expected stop by to take their picture next to the tree. I thought it was odd until I realized we were doing the same thing. I mean, it is really photogenic!
Cellon Oak Park is tiny, and I'd never heard of it (which doesn't mean a thing, actually), but it is home to one tremendous tree. Here are its stats - it is a "champion" Live Oak that is 79 feet tall, has a 160 foot crown spread (reach of branches) with a circumference of 29 feet. It's huge, truly beautiful in the most quintessentially Southern way, and perfect for climbing. Which, despite the absolute lack of sleep, Ellison decided she had to do. We had fun reading the names carved into the sides, seeing who could "walk" farthest up the branches and watching more people than I would have expected stop by to take their picture next to the tree. I thought it was odd until I realized we were doing the same thing. I mean, it is really photogenic!
While not large, Cellon Oak Park is has a wide, grassy field, making it perfect for picnics. In fact, there is a small grill and a table under a pecan tree close to the parking area. Apparently it is also a popular wedding location and when I told Ellison, she thought getting married under a giant Live Oak sounded magical. I have to agree! Since it is fenced on three sides, the park also seems like an ideal spot for young children and dogs since there is really no danger of them running off and its square shape makes it easy to keep a watchful eye. But honestly, even if you don't stay long Cellon Oak is worth a visit just so you can check out this beast for yourself. We feel pretty lucky to have accidentally found it.
See you back here next weekend!
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