The New Nature Center
Now Open! 10am to 4pm Daily
Our Campaign
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Friends of Oxbow (FOX), is a non-profit organization that supports the educational, environmental, and recreational goals of Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo.
Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo has been a beloved destination in Southeastern Minnesota for more than 50 years. The current nature center, built in 1981, is not equipped to provide for the growing opportunities to learn and interact for the over 200,000 park visitors each year.
After many years of planning, the construction of a new Nature Center at Oxbow Park can begin as Olmsted County received a grant to cover a portion of the construction cost. More than ever, the pandemic has demonstrated the value of getting out into nature, and so this project comes at a perfect time. The new Nature Center at Oxbow Park will connect even more people to the outdoors and better provide programming that showcases the region’s natural resources, including Zollman Zoo’s 30+ species of native animals.
FOX is working harder than ever to build support for this amazing new facility and have set an ambitious $1,000,000 fundraising goal to support classroom technology, biome exhibits, and zoo animals. The new nature center will serve as a hub for the community and with help from people like you, we can extend the park’s programs, activities, and educational impact far beyond what it’s currently able to offer. Regardless of the size of your donation, any amount can help make these essential improvements a reality.
As construction progresses, we are also working on a recognition wall and a special event for select donors. All donations to our 501(c)3 are tax deductible.
Donate here!
Recognition Wall
If you are in a position to give generously, you can be added to our donor recognition wall inside the new Nature Center! All named contributions of $1000 or more will be recognized permanently in the new Nature Center. Gather donations from friends, family, or co-workers to reserve your hexagon today!
Projects
Playscape
This 2 acre, natural Playscape will challenge the imaginations of all our visitors, from age 1 to 99, providing a pathway through areas of adventure, art and education.
Badger/Prairie Dog Exhibit
The Badger exhibit is two sided separating the badgers and prairie dogs, constructed of alternating glass, metal, and stone work walls.
Animals Sponsored
FOX continues to sponsor new animals as space is available. Come check out the new additions to our zoo.
About Friends of Oxbow
Friends of Oxbow (FOX) was chartered as a 501(c)3 organization with the IRS and state of Minnesota on Feb. 12, 1982. We are a non-profit organization that supports the educational, environmental, and recreational goals of Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo. Since the creation of FOX nearly 40 years ago we have held beloved events such as Zoo Dazzle as well as partnered with organizations to bring new opportunities to the visitors of Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo.