History of Oxbow
The idea of a new park for Olmsted County was fostered by the Olmsted County Park Board and residents of the park area. The initial 465 acres of land was purchased in 1967. Located in the Zumbro River Valley, the area offered ideal recreational opportunities. A large bend in the river, called an "oxbow" because of its resemblance to an oxen harness, gave the park its name. This "oxbow' has been preserved through bank stabilization, and surrounds the main picnic area.
Today the park consists of miles of hiking traits, a camping area, picnic areas, nature center, and zoo with many native animal exhibits.
During the years since 1967, the park has been transformed from farmlands into beautifully preserved areas. A zoo was established in 1969 (later dedicated to Dr. Paul Zollman) with the donation of native Minnesota animals from John Gilbertson, the regional game warden at the time. The zoo has become a main attraction and now an integral part of the park activities. In 1974, an additional 107 acres was purchased north of the park protecting the park from future developers. In 1998 52 acres was donated, this brought the total size of the park to 624 acres. A nature center, completed in 1981, is located near the zoo. This facility expands both programming potential and work capabilities at the park, and offers additional exhibit areas for the public.
The uniqueness and diversity of Oxbow Park is found in the amount of
public participation and support it has received since its founding.
