Upcoming Programs and Events
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Education Programs & Field Trips
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Welcome to Oxbow Meadows

Environmental Learning Center

Welcome to Oxbow Meadows

Opened in 1995 as a collaboration among Columbus State University, Columbus Water Works, and the City of Columbus, Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center provides exhibits, natural history displays, nature trails, and also offers formal and informal educational programs about the ecology and natural history of the region.

Inside the center, visitors can view a variety of snakes, turtles, tortoises, fish, alligators, invertebrates, and lots more. Visitors can take a walk down our trails to catch a glimpse of native wildlife, view our wetlands and ponds, or to explore our educational and fun Discovery Trail.

Field Trips to Oxbow Meadows
The helpful and knowledgeable staff of Oxbow Meadows will provide your students with a unique, hands-on learning experience to enhance curriculum and state standards.
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Birthday Parties
Looking for a special kind of party, one that educates and entertains? Book your party with Oxbow Meadows, and we will ensure that your child has a party they'll never forget!
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Oxbow Exclusives

'Ed'ventures

Can’t make it to Oxbow in person? Well dive on into our collection of ‘Ed’ventures curated by our education team for all ages!

Adopt A Critter

Trying to gift wrap an alligator can be one dangerous job! Make life easier by becoming an Oxbow Meadows Wildlife Parent today and Adopt a Critter!

Home School

Looking for a unique experience beyond what you can provide from home? Oxbow’s Home School programs offer that and so much more!

Animal Art

Didn’t know a turtle could paint? Welcome to art class with our Oxbow animals. Looking for a unique gift or just a fun way to donate, visit our virtual gallery!

Visitor Information

Hours of Operation:

Monday-Friday | 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Saturday & Sunday | CLOSED

Oxbow’s Trails, Grounds, Outdoor
Exhibits and Parking Lot are Open!

All buildings and interior spaces
remain Closed to the public.

Gates will open and close the at same times. Please note that hours are subject to change, please visit our Calendar of Events to view scheduled closings.

Rules and Regulations:

  • Please keep pets leashed at all times while on our trails
  • No dogs, with the exception of service dogs, are allowed in the building
  • Fishing, hunting, and trapping are not permitted on the property
  • Please do not disturb the native plants and wildlife found on our property
  • Please do not feed any wildlife on our property
  • Picnics are allowed in the designated areas
  • No alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, and/or fireworks are permitted on the property
  • Oxbow Meadows and Columbus State University are smoke free properties; no smoking allowed

Please report ALL accidents. In case of an emergency, please call 911.

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Admission:

Suggested $5 donation for admission.

Oxbow Meadows spends over $60,000 each year on the care, feeding, and expansion of our animal collections. All donations will assist animal care and the continuation and growth of our education programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring wild or injured animals to Oxbow Meadows?

Unfortunately, Oxbow Meadows is not a licensed wildlife rehabilitation center, please do not bring wildlife to Oxbow Meadows.

Where can I take an injured animal?

Please use the following list to find local wildlife rehabbers and their animal specialty.

Wildlife Rehabilitator List (PDF)