Plan Your Visit

Font Size: + -

Feedback Print

Ready for an Adventure?

If you’re ready to get outside and explore Oxbow’s natural beauty, we have tons to offer! Explore the Butterfly Garden, where you can find our state butterfly, the zebra longwing, and catch a glimpse of Oxbow’s very own mascot, the gopher tortoise! If you’re looking for something longer, Oxbow offers over three and half miles of trails. Explore the hydric hammock and stroll through pine flatwoods. Keep your eyes peeled for some wilder neighbors. Armadillos can be seen rooting along the edges of trails and sandhill cranes may circle overhead. Observation towers look out over depression marshes where you can see hooded pitcher plants. If you’re up for a challenge, try the Otter Trail, a scenic and hilly hike along the St Lucie River. Look for otters and manatees on your way!

Some Recommendations:

Wear closed-toe and closed-heel shoes. Proper footwear will protect your feet and make your hike more comfortable!
Even in the winter time it may be warm and sunny - we recommend a hat, sunblock and water no matter the season. We do not sell water or snacks on the premise, but we do have a drinking fountain located near the restrooms at the Eco-Center building.
Mosquitoes and other biting insects are often present, especially in the summer months, so bring insect repellent and dress accordingly.
If you plan on bringing a group larger than 10 people, we ask that you call ahead. Self-guided programs are more than welcome; let staff show you the trail map and orient you based on your group’s needs and abilities. By calling ahead, we can confirm whether the Center will be open at the time of your arrival and whether our outdoor picnic area will be available for a lunch on-site.

Trail Conditions:

Blue Heron Trail:	1.5 mi. Easy walking trail. Sunny. Pine Flatwoods. Tends to hold water after big rainfalls between markers 2-6 and by marker 12.
	SundewPlatform:Chronolog station - snap a pic for science!
	Dragonfly Platform:Get a glimpse of beautiful wetlands! Tends to flood in the wet season.
	Observation Tower:Climb to the top and get a birds eye view!
Gopher Tortoise Trail:	0.49 mi.Easy walking trail. Sunny. Pine Flatwoods. Tends to hold water after big rainfalls between markers 4-6.
Scrub Jay Trail:	0.35 mi. Shady. Slough. Tends to be very wet and muddy.
Otter Trail:	0.62 mi. Varied terrain. Floodplain forest. Pristine views of the North Fork of the St. Lucie River. Tends to hold water after big rainfalls between markers 4-6.
	Canoe/Kayak Landing:Stop along the St. Lucie Paddle Trail. Tends to flood in king tides.
Raccoon Trail:	0.2 mi. Easy walking trail. Some shady sections. Tends to hold water after big rainfalls between markers 4-6. Trail ends at marker 5.
Limpkin Trail:	0.56 mi. Very sunny. Runs the length of the C-106 canal. Great spot for birding!
Bat Trail:	0.4 mi.Easy walking trail.
Heritage Trail:	Easy walking trail. Take a trip through time! Nine artistic windows highlight regional history; scan the code at each one to experience sights and sounds of the times.Download the Heritage Trail Brochure here.
NEW (unnamed) Trail:	Unmarked. Under construction.