A major tributary of the city's principal waterway, Buffalo Bayou, White Oak originates near the intersection of Texas State Highway 6 and U.S. Highway 290 (the Northwest Freeway) and meanders southeast for 25 miles (40 km) until it joins Buffalo Bayou in Downtown.

A large majority of White Oak Bayou's route travels through highly developed areas.

In all, there are about 151 miles (243 km) of open streams in the White Oak Bayou watershed, including the primary and tributary channels.

[3] Wildlife habitat exists on much of the undeveloped tracts scattered throughout the watershed and has been preserved and/or created in several of the large regional stormwater detention basins constructed by the Harris County Flood Control.

The "Tribute Grove" offers individuals the opportunity to commemorate special people or events by planting a tree on White Oak's banks.