Group Visit

Self Guided Group Tours:

Organized groups, organizations, and larger groups are welcome to schedule a self-guided tour at Oxbow Meadows, but MUSTmake a reservation at least 2 weeks in advance, subject to availability.  Tours may require a rental agreement, adherence to CSU's minor policy, and any applicable fees. 

 **We reserve the right to turn away self-guiding groups who do not secure an approved reservation ahead of time.

Self-Guided Field Trips and Programs:

Outside organizations that would like to host their own program or activity at Oxbow, regardless of the group size, must complete a rental agreement and adhere to additional policies and fees.  Please visit the link below to learn more. 

Rentals

If you have questions about either, please email oxbowmeadows@columbusstate.edu 

If you wish to self-guide a tour at Oxbow Meadows, please email oxbowmeadows@columbusstate.edu with the following information and we will respond within 1 week to confirm availability of your requested dates or offer alternate dates.

Due to the heavy volume of field trip traffic, self-guided field trips may start no earlier than 10am and must depart by 3pm.

Please include the following information in your email:

• Organization name:
• Contact name:
• Phone number:
• Email:
• Self-guided tour date:
• Self-guided tour start and end time:
• # of students/youth expected to attend:
• # of chaperones expected:
• Will you be arriving by bus, van or individual cars?
• Will your bus or van be staying in our parking lot while you are at Oxbow Meadows?
• Does your group request to use our Discovery Forest or hiking trails for activities?
• Does your group request to use picnic tables for lunch?

Self-guided Group Visits Policy:

• Groups with youth may not exceed 60 visitors.  Children must be supervised at all times.
• Large groups must divide into groups of no more than 30 people at a time when touring the inside exhibits.
• After emailing with a self-guided visit request, the request will be reviewed and you will be notified via email when the request has been approved. 
• Self-guided groups many only be scheduled Tuesday-Friday from 10am - 3pm.
• Oxbow Meadows has one picnic area that is first reserved for scheduled field trips with Oxbow Meadows education staff.  
• Other groups are not guaranteed access of the picnic space while on a self-guided tours.
• Specific visit information will be included in the confirmation email.

Trail Rules:

• Self-guided groups can access trail maps on the Oxbow Meadows website.
• Large groups need to have one adult for every 12 students.  Walking in smaller groups will reduce noise for others on the trails and will allow a better experience while on the trails.
• All groups must follow the trail rules posted.
• Smoking and vaping is not allowed on the trails.
• Collecting of plants, wildlife, flowers, or rocks is not allowed.
• Fishing is not allowed.
• To prevent erosion, all groups must stay on the trails.  Groups may not explore any area that is not on the trails.
• All children must be supervised at all times while on the trails.
• Feeding of any wildlife is prohibited.
• Dip netting is not permitted for self-guided groups, this must be scheduled as a program with Oxbow Meadows staff.
• Binocular usage is not guaranteed for self-guided groups.