St. Lucie County, FL
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SPECIAL SUMMER NOTICE
The Oxbow Eco-Center hosts youth summer day camps June 8 through July 31. During this time, the Exhibit Hall will remain open, including the virtual sandbox and VR experience. However, access to the Discovery Room will be limited to Saturdays only.
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.
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 and overlooks, an observation tower, and pedestrian trails through pine flatwoods, wetlands, and riverfront habitats. The center features interactive exhibits and live animal ambassadors, highlighting 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 rainwater cistern system, demonstrating how smart design choices can reduce environmental impact and protect natural resources.
Good to Know Before You Visit
Group Visits
Organized groups such as Scouts, youth groups and clubs must call ahead at (772) 785-5833 to use Oxbow facilities or amenities. Unannounced groups are not guaranteed space or accommodations. The pavilion, playscape, picnic tables and other amenities are reserved first for Oxbow programs and activities.
Parking
Limited parking is available near the Eco-Center. Additional parking opens on an as-needed basis just south of the main preserve entrance, on St. James Drive at the canal gate.
Explore the Oxbow Eco-Center
Plan Your Visit
Directions, parking, accessibility, and what to bring
Learn MoreWhat's Happening
Calendar of programs and events
Learn MoreSt. Lucie Earth Day Festival
Join us for the county's annual Earth Day celebration
Learn MoreGuided Nature Programs
Expert-led hikes, paddles, and wildlife walks
Learn MoreSummer Camps
Weeklong day camps rooted in the outdoors
Learn MoreYouth and Family Programs
Nature based programs for youth and families
Learn MoreSchool Programs
Field trips, in-school, and homeschool environmental programs
Learn MoreKids Corner
Free Saturday programs and learning activities for young explorers
Learn MoreAdult Learning
Workshops, lectures, and the Water Champions initiative
Learn MoreVolunteer With Us
Join the team and make a difference in conservation
Learn MoreArchery Programs
Learn archery skills in a natural setting
Learn MoreBetween the Pines
Environmental Resources Dept. 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 MoreSt. Lucie County Preserves
The Oxbow Eco-Center and Preserve is one of many protected natural areas across St. Lucie County. This network of preserves safeguards sensitive habitats, protects water quality, and provides residents and visitors with opportunities to experience Florida's natural 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.
Free Access
Open to the public year-round
Guided Programs
Expert-led nature experiences
28 Preserves
60+ miles of trails and 11,000+ acres, open sunrise to sunset
Explore All Preserves
Discover hiking trails, paddling routes, and natural areas across the county
View County Preserves