Columbus has a rich history and that includes its natural history. Oxbow Meadows in Columbus is on a mission to share the region’s natural history—as in plants and animals—with visitors.
What You’ll Discover at Oxbow Meadows
The hardest part here is deciding where to begin! Oxbow Meadows in Columbus offers guests fun, educational hands-on experiences featuring the main attractions: native West Central Georgia and Chattahoochee Valley plants and animals.
For example, turtles, tortoises, alligators, snakes, fish and more are all the stars of the show with indoor exhibits throughout the center. From there, visitors can explore and walk the trails while observing native wildlife and enjoying the flora and fauna.
There are wetlands, ponds and a stream habitat supporting a plethora of plants and animals on the grounds. As you walk to the trails, be sure to venture down the Discovery Trail!
Other Things to Do at Oxbow Meadows
Besides touring the grounds, Oxbow Meadows in Columbus offers the community both formal and informal educational opportunities. Through programs and events, guests are introduced to a variety of experiences that provide insight into the area’s ecology.
Educational opportunities include homeschooling options for both pre-school and grade school aged groups. Field trips are also a fun way to expose young students to the region’s natural beauty. As far as programs go, there are adventure boxes, summer programs, scout programs, events and more!
For additional information about educational opportunities and programs, click here.
Save the Date!
The Saturday Public Program set for April 10th is a full day of “egg-cellent” experiences! Starting bright and early from 9:30 to 11 a.m., it’s Egg-plorers! Hear about the different types of animals that lay eggs, look at the eggs, and then go on an egg hunt to find some. Finally, hatch a mystery animal of your own!
Next on the agenda from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. spring is here, and animal activity is hopping! Learn about native forest friends like rabbits and frogs during the spring-themed program. Last up, get colorful from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Tie dye a bandana to take home and try not to “crack” up with one last activity.
Tickets for the April 10th Saturday Public Program must be purchased in advance by clicking here. All participants must first check-in at the front desk upon arrival. Program activities will take place outside, so please come prepared.
Location, Hours and Tickets
Oxbow Meadows in Columbus is located at 3535 S. Lumpkin Road. Due to the pandemic, hours and visiting rules have been adjusted. Normal hours of operation are Wednesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
To attend the center, free timed tickets must be reserved. Please click here to reserve your time and tickets.
Summary
Thanks to a partnership among Columbus State University, the City of Columbus and Columbus Water Works, Oxbow Meadows has been providing a natural escape for residents since 1995. Now residents of nearby Clover Leaf have the opportunity to enjoy small town life in neighboring Phenix City with the benefits of a bigger city!
Discover nature and more with a new place at Clover Leaf! Find out about other cool places and things to do in the area by reading our blogs!