White Oak Lake State Park, located in the state of Missouri, offers visitors a range of activities and natural beauty to enjoy. Here is a summary of the park's highlights, including reasons to visit, points of interest, interesting facts, and the best time of year to plan a visit, verified through multiple independent sources.

Reasons to Visit:
1. Natural Beauty: White Oak Lake State Park is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including its namesake lake surrounded by lush forests, scenic trails, and diverse wildlife.
2. Outdoor Recreation: The park provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, hiking, bird-watching, and camping, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
3. Peaceful Atmosphere: With its serene environment and abundance of nature, the park offers a tranquil escape from the city, allowing visitors to relax and rejuvenate amidst the beauty of the outdoors.

Points of Interest:
1. White Oak Lake: The 550-acre lake is a focal point of the park, offering excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and water sports. Anglers can catch a variety of fish species, including bass, crappie, catfish, and bream.
2. Hiking Trails: The park features several scenic trails, such as the Dogwood Trail and Lakeside Trail, which take visitors through diverse ecosystems, including hardwood forests, wetlands, and open meadows.
3. Wildlife: White Oak Lake State Park is home to a rich array of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, squirrels, and various bird species, making it a great spot for wildlife observation and photography.

Interesting Facts:
1. Historical Significance: White Oak Lake State Park was established in 1945 and is one of the oldest state parks in Missouri, with a long history of providing recreational opportunities for visitors.
2. Bald Cypress Trees: The park is known for its remarkable stand of bald cypress trees, which can be seen along the lakeshore. These unique trees thrive in the park's wetland areas.
3. Accessibility: White Oak Lake State Park offers facilities and amenities that cater to visitors with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the park's natural wonders.

Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit White Oak Lake State Park is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild and comfortable. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and migratory birds, while fall showcases the colorful foliage of the surrounding forests. Summer offers warm temperatures for water activities and camping, but it can be busier due to increased visitation.

Sources:
1. Missouri State Parks: White Oak Lake State Park - https://mostateparks.com/park/white-oak-lake-state-park
2. Only In Your State: White Oak Lake State Park - https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/missouri/white-oak-lake-state-park-mo/
3. Recreation.gov: White Oak Lake State Park, Missouri - https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232439