Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park is located in Macon, Georgia, and is a significant archaeological site that preserves and highlights over 17,000 years of continuous human habitation. The park spans over 700 acres along the Ocmulgee River, offering visitors a fascinating journey through time.
The historical background of Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park is rooted in the rich Native American history of the region. The site was home to multiple indigenous cultures, including the Paleo-Indians, Mississippian mound builders, Creek and Cherokee Indians. It served as a vibrant hub for trade, social gatherings, and religious ceremonies.
One of the key attractions in the park is the ancient earth lodge, a reconstructed ceremonial building with a thatched roof, which provides a glimpse into the architectural ingenuity of the Mississippian people. The earth lodge stands as a testament to the park's historical significance and is often used as a venue for cultural events and educational programs.
Exploring the park's trails offers visitors the chance to discover preserved mounds and archaeologically significant sites. The Great Temple Mound is the largest ceremonial mound at the park, standing at about 55 feet tall and offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Additionally, the park features a visitor center with informative exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the history and cultural heritage of the region.
Besides the historical sites, Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park also offers numerous recreational activities for visitors. Hiking and nature trails wind through the park, showcasing its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. The park is a bird-watcher's paradise, with over 200 species recorded within its boundaries. Canoeing and kayaking are popular activities on the Ocmulgee River, offering a unique perspective of the park's natural beauty.
For those wishing to explore nearby attractions, Macon has a wealth of notable sites. The Hay House, a grand Greek Revival mansion, and the Tubman Museum, celebrating African American art, history, and culture, are worth a visit. Downtown Macon offers a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and charming restaurants serving southern cuisine.
In summary, Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park in Georgia is an archaeological treasure preserving centuries of Native American cultures. Its location along the Ocmulgee River provides a picturesque setting for exploring ancient mounds, informative exhibits, and engaging recreational activities. The park offers a unique opportunity to learn and connect with the rich history and natural beauty of the region, while nearby attractions in Macon further enhance the visitor experience.
Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park is nestled within the heart of the state of Georgia. Located in Bibb County, this historical park spans over 700 acres and is situated on the eastern bank of the Ocmulgee River. The park's geographical location offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, the park offers stunning vistas and a peaceful ambiance for those seeking an escape into nature. Additionally, its proximity to the Ocmulgee River provides opportunities for water activities such as boating and fishing.
1207 Emery HwyMacon, GA 31217Driving DirectionsPhone: 4787528257Web: Link
The best time to visit Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park would be during September. This month offers pleasant outdoor weather with an average maximum temperature of 88°F and an average minimum temperature of 65°F. The average monthly precipitation is relatively low at 3.3 inches. Additionally, the visitor count during September is the highest among all months, suggesting that it is a popular time to visit while still avoiding the largest crowds.
Some of the activities you can do in Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park are: Food Picnicking Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Gift Shop and Souvenirs Biking Hiking Fishing
Learn about these topics at Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park: Animals Birds Archeology Native American Heritage Fish Tortoises and Turtles Trails Military Wetlands Infantry and Militia Battlefields Wars and Conflicts Civil War Alligators or Crocodiles
Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park Park grounds and walking trails from 8:00 to 5:00 pm daily. The Visitor Center and Earth Lodge are open from 9:00 am-5:00 pm daily.
The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Ocmulgee Mounds Visitor Center.
This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).
With a stay at Econo Lodge Macon in Macon, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Hay House and Cannonball House. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, a 24-hour front desk, and a safe deposit box at the front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1990 Riverside Dr, Macon, Georgia 31201
Web: Link
Located in Macon, Best Western Riverside Inn is within a 5-minute drive of Hay House and Cannonball House. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-in, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Event facilities at this hotel consist of a conference center and a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2400 Riverside Dr, Macon, Georgia 31204
Web: Link
With a stay at Hilton Garden Inn Macon / Mercer University in Macon, you'll be in the historical district, just a 4-minute walk from Mercer University and a 4-minute drive from Hay House. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Macon? This hotel has facilities measuring 1486 square feet (138 square meters), including conference space. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1220 Stadium Dr, Macon, Georgia 31204
Web: Link
With a stay at 1842 Inn in Macon, you'll be on a river, just a 1-minute walk from Carmichael House and 7 minutes by foot from Hay House. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 353 College St, Macon, Georgia 31201
Web: Link
Marriott Macon City Center is centrally located in Macon, a 3-minute walk from Macon Coliseum and 12 minutes by foot from Harriet Tubman Museum. Featured amenities include wired Internet access (surcharge), a 24-hour business center, and express check-out. Planning an event in Macon? This hotel has facilities measuring 125000 square feet (11613 square meters), including a conference center. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 240 Coliseum Dr, Macon, Georgia 31217
Web: Link
A stay at Burke Mansion places you in the heart of Macon, within a 5-minute walk of Carmichael House and Hay House. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. A roundtrip airport shuttle is provided for a surcharge during limited hours, and free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1085 Georgia Ave, Macon, Georgia 31201
Web: Link
With a stay at Red Carpet Inn Macon in Macon, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Fort Hawkins and Ocmulgee National Monument. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, laundry facilities, and coffee/tea in a common area. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2870 Jeffersonville Road, East Macon, Georgia 31217
Web: Link
With a stay at TownePlace Suites by Marriott Macon Mercer University in Macon, you'll be a 3-minute walk from Mercer University and 12 minutes by foot from Hawkins Arena. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1550 Mercer University Drive, Macon, Georgia 31204
Web: Link
A stay at this apartment places you in the heart of Macon, within a 15-minute walk of Sidney Lanier Cottage and Hawkins Arena. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1064 College Street, apt 4, Macon, Georgia 31201
Web: Link
With a stay at this apartment in Macon, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Coliseum Health System and Fort Hawkins. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1086 Clinton Road, Macon, Georgia 31211
Web: Link
| Date issued | Details |
|---|---|
| 2025-04-12 | River Trail periodically closed under I-16 The section of the River Trail beneath Interstate 16 is closed during bridge construction when pedestrian safety is at risk and remains open when no significant hazards are present. |
| 2024-09-25 | Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park Will Close on September 26 to Prepare for Storm Threat Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park will close to the public at 11:00 am on Thursday, September 26 in advance of Hurricane Helene. More |
| 2024-09-03 | Ocmulgee Indigenous Celebration Returns to Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park Come celebrate southeastern Native American heritage during the 32nd annual Ocmulgee Indigenous Celebration, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, September 14 and Sunday, September 15 at Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park. Experience traditional cultural crafts, storytelling, programs, demonstrations, music, and dance, and shop Native American craft and food vendors. More |
| 2024-03-12 | BOARDWALK CLOSED along the River Trail Due to structural issues, the boardwalk along the river trail is closed until further notice. Access to the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail and river is not available due to this closure. This closure does not affect access to any of the mound sites. |
| 2023-09-08 | Ocmulgee Indigenous Celebration Returns to Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park Come celebrate southeastern Native American heritage during the 31st annual Ocmulgee Indigenous Celebration, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, September 16 and Sunday, September 17 at the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park. Experience traditional cultural crafts, storytelling, programs, demonstrations, music, and dance, and shop Native American craft and food vendors. More |
| 2023-06-27 | Macon-Bibb County the Macon Housing Authority donation adds 3.6 acres to Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park The National Park Service (NPS) today announced Macon-Bibb County and the Macon Housing Authority have donated several land parcels near the Davis Homes community totaling 3.62 acres to Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park. More |