St. Lucie County, FL
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Oxbow Eco-Center & Preserve
Welcome to the Oxbow
The Oxbow Eco-Center and Preserve is St. Lucie County's premier destination for environmental education, conservation, and outdoor exploration.
Preserve trails, nature playscape, amphitheater, and picnic areas will remain open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with limited access to indoor Eco-Center exhibits and restrooms.
Located on 225 acres along the North Fork of the St. Lucie River in Port St. Lucie, the Oxbow Eco-Center serves as a nature preserve and environmental learning center, connecting residents and visitors to Florida's native ecosystems. Operated by St. Lucie County's Environmental Resources Department, the center supports the county's long-term commitment to environmental preservation, water quality protection, and community well-being.
Visitors can explore boardwalks, walking trails, and observation towers that wind through pine flatwoods, wetlands, and riverfront habitats. The center features interactive exhibits and live animal ambassadors that highlight local wildlife, habitats, and water resources. Year-round programming includes school field trips, workshops, lectures, public events, and service learning opportunities.
A Model for Sustainability
The Oxbow Eco-Center was built using green building technologies including passive light design, solar panels, recycled materials, and a rainwater cistern system—demonstrating how smart design choices can reduce environmental impact and protect natural resources for future generations.
St. Lucie County Preserves
The Oxbow Eco-Center and Preserve is one of many protected natural areas across St. Lucie County. Our network of preserves safeguards sensitive habitats, protects water quality, and provides residents and visitors with opportunities to experience Florida's native ecosystems.
From coastal scrub and pine flatwoods to freshwater wetlands and riverfront habitats, St. Lucie County's preserves offer guided walks, wildlife viewing, paddling trails, and environmental education programs throughout the year. Each preserve plays a vital role in our community's environmental health and quality of life.
Multiple Locations
Preserves throughout the county
Free Access
Open to the public year-round
Guided Programs
Expert-led nature experiences
Explore All Preserves
Discover hiking trails, paddling routes, and natural areas across the county
View County PreservesExplore the Oxbow Eco-Center
Pop-Up Nature
Surprise nature topics with live animals, stories, and crafts. 12:30–1pm. Free!
Learn More Every SaturdayCritter Crunch & Munch
Watch animal ambassadors get fed and enriched. 1:30–2pm. Free!
Learn MorePlan Your Visit
Directions, parking, accessibility, and what to bring
Learn MoreSpecial Events
Festivals, celebrations, and seasonal programs
Learn MoreGuided Nature Programs
Expert-led hikes, paddles, and wildlife walks
Learn MoreFamily Exploration Backpack
Free one-day checkout with gear, books, and activities
Learn MoreAdult Learning
Workshops, lectures, and the Water Champions initiative
Learn MoreKids Corner
Activities, games, and learning resources for young explorers
Learn MoreVolunteer With Us
Join our team and make a difference in conservation
Learn MoreArchery Programs
Learn archery skills in a natural setting
Learn MoreBetween the Pines
Our e-newsletter with updates, events, and nature stories
Learn MoreSundew Overlook Chronolog
Time-lapse citizen science photo project
Learn MoreFound Injured Wildlife?
What to do if you find injured or displaced animals
Learn More