Friendship Oak

Friendship Oak is a large live oak tree standing on the Gulf Park College campus with a thick trunk and wide-spreading branches. Its expansive canopy provides extensive shade across the surrounding area.

The tree began growing in 1487, which predates Columbus's arrival in the Americas by several years. It has endured storms and environmental changes across five centuries.

The oak has long served as a gathering place for weddings and celebrations among families connected to Gulf Park College, creating memories that span generations.

The tree sits on an open campus and is easy to reach with plenty of space to explore and rest beneath its branches. Bring plenty of water during hot weather since there is limited additional shelter nearby.

Few people know that this tree was documented by forestry experts for its unusually large lateral branches that extend far from the main trunk. Such an architectural form is relatively uncommon in oaks of comparable age.

Location: Mississippi

Location: Long Beach

GPS coordinates: 30.35180,-89.13610

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:05