Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo | Rochester MN

Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo – In Detail

Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo is a significant natural, recreational, and educational destination located just northwest of Rochester, Minnesota, near the town of Byron. Covering more than 600 acres, the park combines diverse natural landscapes, extensive trail systems, wildlife habitats, camping facilities, and a unique native-animal zoo, making it a popular year-round destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and nature lovers.

Natural Setting and Landscape

Oxbow Park features a rich mosaic of ecosystems including hardwood forests, prairies, wetlands, and the banks of the Middle Fork of the Zumbro River. The park’s topography includes gently rolling hills, shaded wooded areas, open meadows, and creek corridors. This diverse landscape supports a wide variety of native plants and animals and creates a dynamic setting for hiking, wildlife observation, and nature study.

The river corridor adds scenic beauty and serves as an important habitat for aquatic and riparian species. Visitors can experience quiet creekside views and listen to the sounds of flowing water as they explore the trails.

Hiking and Trails

The park boasts nearly eight miles of well-maintained hiking trails that wind through forests, prairies, and along wetlands. Trails vary in length and difficulty, ranging from easy, flat paths suitable for families and casual walkers to more challenging loops with elevation changes for avid hikers.

The trail network is marked and designed to showcase different natural communities, including dense hardwoods, prairie grasslands, and wetland ecosystems. Benches and small resting spots are scattered throughout, encouraging visitors to pause and take in the natural surroundings.

During winter months, many trails are groomed for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, enhancing the park’s accessibility for outdoor activities year-round.

Camping Facilities

Oxbow Park offers a campground with 30 campsites, including both electric and non-electric options, making it accessible to a variety of campers-from tent users to RV owners. The campground features modern amenities such as restrooms with showers and well-maintained grounds. The setting is quiet and immersed in nature, providing campers a peaceful environment away from urban noise.

Campers have easy access to the park’s hiking trails and the zoo, making it an ideal base for weekend family adventures or longer nature retreats.

Zollman Zoo

The Zollman Zoo is a standout feature of Oxbow Park. Established in 1969 and named after Dr. Paul E. Zollman, a local veterinarian and park advocate, the zoo specializes in native Minnesota wildlife. It provides a permanent home for injured, orphaned, or non-releasable animals that cannot survive in the wild.

The zoo is home to over 30 species of animals including wolves, bison, black bears, river otters, bald eagles, bobcats, coyotes, and various birds of prey. The exhibits are designed to resemble natural habitats and provide opportunities for visitors to observe and learn about native wildlife up close.

Zollman Zoo serves as an educational resource, with interpretive signage and seasonal programs that highlight wildlife conservation, animal behavior, and Minnesota’s ecological heritage.

Nature Center and Educational Programs

Adjacent to the zoo is the Oxbow Park Nature Center, which acts as the park’s educational hub. The center is open daily during regular hours and features interactive exhibits on the region’s flora, fauna, geology, and conservation efforts.

Visitors can check out activity backpacks focused on themes such as birding, wildlife tracking, and nature journaling, enhancing the hiking and zoo experiences. The center also hosts workshops, guided walks, and seasonal events for families, school groups, and adult learners.

The nature center’s staff and volunteers provide outreach and support for environmental education, making Oxbow Park a focal point for community engagement in natural resource stewardship.

Recreation and Visitor Amenities

Besides hiking, camping, and the zoo, Oxbow Park offers several picnic shelters equipped with tables, fire rings, and electricity, available on a first-come, first-served basis. These spaces are perfect for family reunions, group gatherings, or casual day outings.

The park is dog-friendly, allowing dogs on leash. It is well suited for birdwatching, photography, and simply enjoying quiet time in nature. Seasonal changes bring different highlights: wildflower blooms in spring and summer, vibrant foliage in fall, and snow-covered tranquility in winter.

Hours, Admission, and Accessibility

Park Hours: Oxbow Park is open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Zollman Zoo & Nature Center: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed on major holidays such as Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving.

Admission: Both the park and zoo are free to the public, although donations are encouraged to support maintenance and programs.

Accessibility: The nature center and some picnic areas are wheelchair accessible. Trails are natural surface and vary in difficulty, so full trail accessibility may be limited for those with mobility challenges.

Visitor Tips

Parking is available near the nature center and zoo, as well as at the campground.

Pack water, insect repellent, and sturdy footwear for trail exploration.

Visit early in the day or during weekdays for a quieter experience.

Check the park’s event calendar for guided hikes, educational programs, and special seasonal activities.

Follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the park’s natural beauty and wildlife habitats.

Summary

Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo offers a comprehensive nature experience blending outdoor recreation, wildlife conservation, and education. It is a vital green space in Olmsted County, providing a home for native wildlife, a classroom for ecological learning, and a sanctuary for visitors seeking to connect with Minnesota’s natural heritage. Its diverse landscapes, extensive trails, engaging zoo exhibits, and well-maintained facilities make it an essential destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the outdoors.