Angel Oak Tree
Angel Oak Tree
4.5
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Geologic Formations
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1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Tours & experiences
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Top ways to experience Angel Oak Tree and nearby attractions
The area
Address
Best nearby
Restaurants
23 within 3 miles
Attractions
18 within 6 miles
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
2,396 reviews
Excellent
1,697
Very good
531
Average
130
Poor
18
Terrible
20
hsbvim
Dublin, OH1,197 contributions
Jan 2022
While visiting the McLeod Plantation and seeing their 300 year old live oak, we were told we should visit the nearby Angle Oak Tree to see one even older. We saw claims online that it was 600 years old, but the placards on the property indicated it is more likely to be 400-500 years old.
The parking is relatively limited - just a dozen or so spots off the road. We were simply lucky that one spot was available when we arrived.
Placards state that this is the oldest live oak tree east of the Mississippi River. It was, indeed, huge and majestic, so it is worth 15 minutes of someone's time to drop by when in the area.
The parking is relatively limited - just a dozen or so spots off the road. We were simply lucky that one spot was available when we arrived.
Placards state that this is the oldest live oak tree east of the Mississippi River. It was, indeed, huge and majestic, so it is worth 15 minutes of someone's time to drop by when in the area.
Written February 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Melinda H
42 contributions
Jan 2023
What an absolutely great opportunity to view one of the oldest and beautiful trees in our nation. There are some picnic tables if you want to plan a lunch and just enjoy this majestic tree. The visit is free but be sure to check the visitor hours prior to going. There is not a paved parking lot and there are no walkways to this could be tough for a person who has mobility issues. There is handicap parking close to the gift shop. The gift shop is rustic but does have some artworks, photos and post cards available for purchase.
Written January 25, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
nicole_chelli
New Haven, CT231 contributions
Dec 2022 • Friends
I have visited Angel Oak twice now and it has not failed to disappoint. The beauty and age of this tree is truly stunning. Free to enter and there are picnic tables on the outskirts of the tree. Please be respectful of the tree! Local artists are there painting the tree, feel free to ask them questions! One of them recommended Sono Market place for lunch nearby which did not disappoint.
Written December 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Kat_Cubs_fan
Chickamauga, GA48,702 contributions
Mar 2022
We visited this awesome live oak tree on a Saturday in March, and while the tree is an absolute "can't miss" attraction, the experience of visiting it is just awful.
This is a location that needs controlled visiting or timed-ticketed entry and not a "free for all" willy-nilly type of entry system. Parking was out of control on a narrow road with folks just leaving their cars sticking out in the lane of traffic. There were way too many visitors there at one time, and if you want to do photography of the tree, good luck with all the people and distracting signs and barricades.
I'm all for preserving this wonderful old tree, but the current visitor experience is unacceptable and needs to change, even if it means charging a fee to see it.
This is a location that needs controlled visiting or timed-ticketed entry and not a "free for all" willy-nilly type of entry system. Parking was out of control on a narrow road with folks just leaving their cars sticking out in the lane of traffic. There were way too many visitors there at one time, and if you want to do photography of the tree, good luck with all the people and distracting signs and barricades.
I'm all for preserving this wonderful old tree, but the current visitor experience is unacceptable and needs to change, even if it means charging a fee to see it.
Written March 31, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Allyala N
Brookline, MA79 contributions
Dec 2022 • Couples
This is a grand old oak tree that is over 350 years old. It is only when one actually see it that it’s grandeur and majesty becomes evident. There are very friendly signs all over encouraging people to respect the tree and ensue it survives for many more years. Suggestion is to reach early as you parking is a major problem. There is a small and nice gift shop on site
Written December 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Chris D
1 contribution
Jun 2022 • Family
This tree is absolutely remarkable and stunning to see up close and personal. As others have mentioned though, there is a cranky old guy that has nothing better to do than be very rude and mean to anyone that looks at this tree the wrong way. Oh, and he paints and makes money of this tree. I asked him about his paintings and he mentioned he used the sandy soil from underneath the tree in his paintings. For someone trying to preserve the tree, you would think that taking nutrients from it in the form of soil would be outlandish. The gift shop is a sad attempt at making money, the parking is horrendous and the bathrooms are a rentable trailer potty.
Written June 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
snyTraveler
Maryland47 contributions
Jun 2021
Estimated to be 400-500 years old, this Southern live oak is an amazing tree. When you stand back and see the reach of the branches and its size in comparison to the people, you will be amazed. Well worth the visit. It's free and you can stay as long as you like. A real gem!
Written June 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
TravelinMama4393
Oconto Falls, WI169 contributions
Aug 2021
The tree is gorgeous. Unfortunately there are unsightly signs and a bright yellow plastic chain barrier around it. People mill about all over as well so getting nice photos are not easy. The website states that it closes at 5:00 pm. We were driving close by at about 4:45 and decided we would quickly stop and look at the tree. Apparently they close the gate at 4:50 pm. As we walked up to the gate, the staff member was yelling at folks and yelled at us. She yelled, "Read the sign!' As we approached the gate. A gal in my group explained we had driven a distance and it was our last day in the state and asked if we could please go in, we would be done by closing at 5:00 pm. The gate keeper yelled throughout the visit that the park was closing in 6 minutes, five minutes, four minutes, etc. It was pretty obnoxious. The tree was beautiful but the experience was lacking.
Written August 20, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Dottie H
Syracuse, NY679 contributions
Aug 2022
A must see for the nature lovers. Travel brochures cannot convey the extent or stateliness of this mighty oak. A unique experience viewing a tree that was already 150 years old before America even existed. Thought it interesting how different the leaves and growth pattern is from northern Oak trees in our area. The park wasn't open when we got there, but you can still view it from the road, (although the chainlink fence does nothing for it). My pictures do not reflect the majestic grandeur of this work of mother nature. Imagine the numerous storms that have battered the area over its lifespan and yet it stands strong. The conservation crew that oversees it is doing a wonderful job to insure it survives as long as possible.
Written September 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Lisa E
Annapolis, MD101 contributions
Jan 2020
The Angel Oak is an exhibit all by itself. There is no admission, but donations are accepted in the small gift shop.
The tree is over 400 yrs old and spans a huge area with branches gracefully touching the ground here and there. No climbing, but still worth seeing.
The tree is over 400 yrs old and spans a huge area with branches gracefully touching the ground here and there. No climbing, but still worth seeing.
Written January 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
jumpingstar25
New York City, NY41 contributions
How do you get a picture without the yellow fence around it?
jaimeelsabio
Maryland4,162 contributions
I doubt that you can since it goes around the base of the tree to keep people from climbing it. I doubt it’s possible, but maybe you could pay to take photos during off hours where you’re the o ly one there and the park could temporarily move the fence.
April W
Portland, TN181 contributions
Is there a tour departing Charleston that provides transportation. Trying to decide if we need to rent a car.
TIA
Can I bring my dog on a leash to see Angel Oak Tree?
n280
16 contributions
It is a public space and leashed pets are allowed in designated areas which include the picnic area.
What is the green stuff on the branches of the A O T? Is it green moss, algae, fungus, lichens, alga or mold? I think it is not moss, but others say it is green moss. Read that the gray Spanish Moss is not really moss. Can u clear this up?
Daven2323
Windermere, FL103 contributions
It’s Spanish moss. It’s common on the trees in this area. Hope this helps.
Rosemary H
Geneseo, NY10 contributions
How old is the angel oak?
Deb J
70 contributions
Around 500 years old
S0uthernLady10
Conway6 contributions
Is there a charge to see the Angel Tree?
newadventure53
Macomb, MI822 contributions
Nope, it is free of charge.
Sue J
Omaha, NE1,289 contributions
We are hoping to visit some plantations on our own, as we'll have a car. This one looks wonderful. Is there any way to group the plantations to do more than one a day?
Sookie42
Florence, AL166 contributions
The Charleston Tea Plantation is near the Angel Tree. You can drive to the plantation area from Summerville south towards Charleston. On the trail, you will have several plantations and historical sites.
Roving762196
3 contributions
Is there a cover fee to get in and if so how much?
Larry W
Rochester, NY21,296 contributions
Gee, the tree is free! There is no fee, I say with glee. You'll see the tree, I must agree, on one knee. So bring a key and wear a tee to see the tree!
Shannon S
1 contribution
Hi! I was curious what time specifically, you would suggest for a morning visit? I'd like to go when it isn't crowded.
Beth423
Weston, VT12 contributions
Go when they first open....wear walking shoes....depending on day, set your camera to black n white...photos will be neat with morning haze
Angel Oak Tree (Johns Island) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Angel Oak Tree
- Angel Oak Tree is open:
- Sun - Sun 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
- Mon - Tue 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Thu - Sat 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- We recommend booking Angel Oak Tree tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 2 Angel Oak Tree tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near Angel Oak Tree:
- (8.42 mi) Regatta Inn
- (5.92 mi) Town & Country Inn and Suites
- (5.77 mi) James Island County Park Campground & Cottages
- (5.79 mi) Home2 Suites Charleston West Ashley
- (8.70 mi) Charleston Kiawah Island/Andell Inn
- Restaurants near Angel Oak Tree:
- (0.28 mi) Sunrise Bistro
- (0.24 mi) Blackbird Market
- (0.29 mi) El Mercadito Mexican Restaurant
- (0.26 mi) Peking Gourmet
- (0.36 mi) Subway
- Attractions near Angel Oak Tree:
- (0.48 mi) John's Island Regional Library
- (0.83 mi) Affinity Charters Fishing Guide
- (7.20 mi) Coastal Expeditions
- (6.34 mi) Charleston Fossil Adventures
- (7.29 mi) Charleston Outdoor Adventures