Wes and Jan see the US Wanderings and Side Trips

The Big Tree and Goose Island State Park Jan 3, 2007

Yesterday, we took our fifth wheel in for the warranty work. We got up early and packed up and drove to Rockport only to be told they didn't have us on the list. We could leave it there and they MIGHT get to it before evening or we could bring it back on Wednesday morning. We decided we were done dealing (or trying to deal) with them. Wes bought the part and fixed the water heater himself and the hydraulic pump will just have to wait until we get home.

We wanted to tour the WH park that is here in this area for future reference, so we did that. Nice park. We will look forward to using some of our free days there. We also drove out to check out the camping at Goose Island State Park. It is a nice area. They have several sites right on the water with water and electric hookups and a nice little covered table area. Pretty windy there. There is also another "wooded area" where there are nice sites that are not on the water. We really liked this area too. With a Texas Parks pass, you can get free entrance and discounted camping. Without the pass, it is $3.00 per person entrance fee (that's every day) and $14.00 per day full hookups. That makes it about $20 per day.

In this state park is the BIG TREE. It's been about 20 years since we have visited this tree. It is a special place. It has an ancient feel to it - very quiet and peaceful. It is one of those rare places we have found in our travels where we just want to sit and rest and feel at peace. An oasis for the spirit. This tree is over 1000 years old. It is a live oak tree. It is the oldest tree in Texas (and probably in a lot of the US). It is surrounded with lots of its children and grandchildren trees. If you are in the area, take the time to visit here. Very worth while. It reminds me of the Ogier Stedding in the Eye of the World series of books.

Tomorrow and Thursday are forecast with rain and cool temps, but Friday should be a good fishing day. Saturday we will do laundry and grocery shopping and start getting packed up for our trip to AZ. We plan to leave on Monday, Jan 8.