Mammoth Live Oaks, some of the oldest and largest in Florida, can be found in Lake Griffin State Park. The Live Oak Tree, pictured, is said to be “several hundred years old.” It is one of the largest at 10-feet in diameter, 83 feet high and has a spread of 131 feet.
In the days of sailing ships, the large arching limbs of these stately trees “were highly sought after for making ship’s ribs and knees.”
These sturdy, low growing trees are “better able to withstand hurricanes, winds, fires, droughts and floods than other hardwoods.” They are incredibly beautiful trees that “provide food and shelter for several animal species as well as a place of attachment for various air plants, mosses and ferns.”
Lake Griffin State Park encompasses 620 acres and allows visitors to explore in several ways. Anglers or birders may want to rent a canoe or a kayak to explore Lake Griffin’s marshes. The park boasts two hiking trails totaling about two miles in length. The park has several different habitats including swamp and sandhill. Animals commonly spotted include racoons, bobcats, coyotes and even bears.
We are staying in one of the 40 campsites with water and electric. Some sites have sewer and all sites fill up quickly in the winter months.
If you go:
Lake Griffin State Park
3089 U.S. Highway 441-27
Fruitland Park FL 34731
352-360-6760
Photo: Mammoth Live Oak, Lake Griffin State Park, central Florida.
