Olmsted County Parks and Trails invites public to open houses
Survey also open for feedback through August 31, 2025
Olmsted County Parks and Trails is hosting a series of open house events to gather community input on the future of county parks. These events are part of the county’s ongoing efforts to update master plans for the parks and ensure local voices shape improvements to park spaces, natural areas, and visitor experiences.
Open house details
Each open house will feature information and displays about all Olmsted County parks: Chester Woods, Oxbow, Root River, and Lake Zumbro. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions, provide input, and learn more about the long-term vision of the parks and trails system.
The events will include kid-friendly activities, such as a nature program with a county park naturalist at the Chester Woods and Oxbow parks open houses. Children will also have an opportunity to draw their vision for the parks at the events. Families are encouraged to attend and participate.
Open house dates and locations
- Wednesday, August 14, 2025
Chester Woods Park from 6 to 8 p.m. (Park naturalist program at 6:50 p.m.) - Tuesday, September 23, 2025
Oxbow Park nature center from 6 to 8 p.m. (Park naturalist program at 6:50 p.m.) - Thursday, October 9, 2025
Graham Park in Aune Hall from 6 to 8 p.m.
“People who visit our parks have the best insight into what’s working and where we can grow,” said Olmsted County Parks and Trails Director Karlin Ziegler. “These open houses give community members a direct voice in how we improve park amenities, protect natural areas, and create safe, welcoming spaces for everyone.”
Survey input accepted through August 2025
In addition to the open houses, residents can provide feedback through an online survey available in English, Somali, and Spanish. Paper copies of the survey are also available at Olmsted County parks and community events throughout the summer. Survey responses will be accepted through August 31, 2025.
Feedback gathered through the survey and open houses will help inform updated parks master plans, which guide the future development of Olmsted County’s parks and trails system. Final plans are expected in early 2026.
“We want everyone who enjoys our parks to feel like they have a voice in this process,” said Ziegler. “Whether you hike the trails every weekend or make an annual reservation at our campgrounds, your experience and feedback matters to us.”