The McBaine Bur Oak

Missouri's grand champion McBaine Bur Oak is known to most of central Missouri as simply "The Big Tree."

This famous Quercus macrocarpa is a frequent stop for anybody in the Columbia area as a chance to get away from the city and get a taste of the country. Students from the University of Missouri have been making the quick drive down Highway K to marvel at its vast canopy and monstrous trunk.

Hear the history of the tree from 5th-generation owner John Sam Williamson. At more than 350 years old the tree has seen it all.

With being just a stone's throw from the Missouri River, it is possible even Lewis and Clark seen it. It is also just off of the famous Katy Trail.

[billquantrill]

We stopped and looked at this wonderful tree today. My wife was amazed an oak tree could get that big. I hope he stands another 350 years.

[geekmate]

Both my husband and my father-in-law have tended Council Oak in Ohio. It was heartening to hear there are still a few champion trees still around. I have also seen Willoughby Oak in Norfolk, VA.

[dwightcowan]

Thanks for the video. I have good memories of working on that farm for John Sam Jr and Sr while at Mizzou in late 70s. Glad to see the tree is still doing well. Enjoyed lunch under that tree many times. Hope all is well with Williamson family and their family farm.

[mcmaggi]

It is beautiful and a cherished MO treasure!

[KyleSpradley]

From Jefferson City, head north on Highway 63. After about 24 miles, take the Grindstone/AC Nifong Exit. Head west on Nifong/Grindstone. In about 4.5 miles, turn left onto Providence Rd. Head south on Providence, again it turns into Highway K. Continue for about 9 miles. The tree will be on your right. Cant miss it.

[brocka]

I wonder how many of these were around 200 years ago before clearing started.

[Nortekj]

@ Kyle how that tree would have compared to the Bur Oak that was on my property in Gallatin county, Kentucky. My two brothers and I average about 6 foot 2 inches in height, we stood at the base of the tree, then with finger tips touching, tried to reach around the tree at shoulder height and there was still a gap left over that was a bit more than 18 inches. The tree was approx. 100 foot tall and had a limb spread of about 120 foot, it had limbs that were greater in diameter than most trees around it. Sadly, in November 1992, a tornado uprooted the tree leaving a 4 foot deep hole that was about 12 foot in diameter. I wish now that I had actually measured the tree's diameter when it was still standing. I have a few pictures of it before it was destroyed.

[KyleSpradley]

From California, head east of 50 towards Jefferson City. At Tipton, take Highway 5 north to I-70. Head east on I-70. Get off at the Providence Rd. Exit (No. 126). Turn right and head south onto Providence Rd. for about 13 miles. Providence turns into Highway K, but continue along that road. You will reach the river bottoms, continue on K through McBaine. The tree will be on your right in the middle of a field. You can't miss it. If you search The Big Oak Tree on Google Maps, you should find it

[KyleSpradley]

That's great to hear! You gotta love those old oaks. If ever in Missouri, let me know and I will send directions to "The Big Tree." It's worth a stop.

[bbbcstskip]

I am visiting in Jefferson City and plan on going to California, MO around noon. How would I get to The Big Tree from California? Thank you.

[thomast]

This tree was struck by lightning today and is on fire. The fire department is on the scene.