Parks and Trails programs
Accessibility options: Olmsted County Parks offer a variety of accessibility accommodations for park visitors and our public programming. Ranging from accommodations for mobility like our Action Trackchair, sensory sensitivities including our free rental kits, American Sign Language interpreter, and a microphone/speaker system for improved acoustics for hearing with certain programs. We know everyone’s experience is unique. For more information on these resources, contact oxbow@olmstedcounty.gov or call 507-328-7340. Please let us know of needed accommodations at least two days in advance, two weeks for an ASL interpreter.
Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo
The following events take place at Oxbow Park and are subject to change.
Sunday, November 2, 1 p.m. - Feed the Bison
Bring the entire family out for a closer look at the majestic Plains Bison. You'll learn interesting facts about these marvelous creatures and get a close-up look as they are fed. A short hike is involved (accommodations can be made).
Saturday, November 8, 1 p.m. - Mighty Mustelids
Learn from an Oxbow Park naturalist all about Minnesota’s mustelids (weasels). See Zollman Zoo’s mustelid animal ambassadors including otter, fisher, and badgers!
Sunday, November 16, 1 p.m. Thanksgiving Craft
Come out to the nature center to enjoy making a fun Thanksgiving-themed craft with your family!
Saturday, November 22, 11 a.m. - Wild Turkeys
This bird is on almost everyone’s mind this time of year! Come to Oxbow and learn more about these fascinating creatures and their links to our nation’s past. (All ages)
Friday and Saturday, December 5 and 6, 4-8 p.m. - ZooDazzle
Join Friends of Oxbow for the return of their ZooDazzle event. During this celebration you will see Zollman Zoo all lit up with holiday lights at night! There will also be treats and activities. This event is admission free. Rumor has it that Santa may even be there!
Friday and Saturday, December 12 and 13, 4-8 p.m. - ZooDazzle Lights ONLY
Visit the Zollman Zoo lit up with holiday lights, no activities.
Snow rental equipment $5
Snowshoe, cross-country ski, and kick sleds rentals available between the hours of 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Weather permitting.
2026 Oxbow Park homeschool classes
Oxbow Park is now offering Naturalist Programs reserved for homeschool families! Sign up will be required and Oxbow Park reserves the right to cancel the program if there are not enough participants signed up. The fee is $5 per student, 3 years and older (parents and 2 and under are free)
- Payment is required to sign up for the class. No refunds will be offered.
- Please call 507-328-7340 to sign up.
Homeschool classes:
- Wednesday, January 14, 11 a.m. - Animal Adaptations
- Thursday, February 12, 1 p.m. - Reptiles/Feed the Snakes
- Tuesday, March 10, 11 a.m. - Animal Introductions
- Wednesday, April 15, 9:30 a.m. - Animal Tracks and Signs