Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park image

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park

Tourist attraction Park Historic site National park

One of the Best Places To Visits in Macon


Address

1207 Emery Hwy, Macon, GA 31217, United States

Website

www.nps.gov

Contact

+1 478-752-8257

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (2.1K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: 8 am to 5 pm
  • Friday: 8 am to 5 pm
  • Saturday: 8 am to 5 pm
  • Sunday: 8 am to 5 pm
  • Monday: 8 am to 5 pm
  • Tuesday: 8 am to 5 pm
  • Wednesday: 8 am to 5 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: mounds (23) center (23) history (21) park (16) site (14) trails (13) visitors (12) mound (12) visitor (12) walk (11)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Debra 2 years ago on Google
    These Indian mounds are phenomenal! It’s crazy to believe that people have lived there for 17,000 years. The Visitor Center is great! They have a lot of artifacts to see, along with videos to watch to have a better understanding of how these people lived.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 J C. 2 years ago on Google
    This park is very interesting. It has various hiking trails, gift shop, a small museum and underground things to see. I like that is had random posts with information on how trading happened and the places where it happen. It is a site to see. There is a creek and I believe a river. I didn't get to finish the river trail I was on as I wasn't fully prepared and there were tons of bugs in that one. Still, the views were amazing!
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tilly L. 4 months ago on Google • 1204 reviews
    20231211 This historic park has a museum in the visitors center and several mounds. The Earth Lodge Mound is interesting. The pathway to the interior is narrow with low ceiling. The Great Temple Mound has a long walkway with steps to the top. The view include Macon skyline, a pond, and the funeral Mound. The paths are clearly laid out that lead you to the mounds. There is a natural trail by the Great Temple Mound that might have alligators. Tick warning signs are everywhere, good thing I came in December. There is a gift shop in the visitors center.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ryan F. 10 months ago on Google
    Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, located near Macon, Georgia, is a site of significant cultural and historical importance. It features large Native American earthen mounds built over 1,000 years ago and preserves the rich history of the people who have inhabited the region for the past 17,000 years. Here's what you can discover at Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park: Mounds: The park is home to several major mounds, including the Great Temple Mound, which stands 56 feet tall. Visitors can climb to the top of this mound for stunning views of the surrounding area. Earth Lodge: This reconstructed ceremonial structure has a clay floor that dates back over 1,000 years. Inside, visitors can see the original seats and council chamber layout, offering a glimpse into the political and ceremonial life of the Mississippian culture. Museum and Visitor Center: The park's museum showcases artifacts unearthed from the site, including pottery, tools, and weapons. Informative exhibits detail the history of the native people and the later European settlers. Trails: A network of trails connects the various mounds and features within the park, providing opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Archaeological Significance: The park's diverse cultural record tells the story of prehistoric Native Americans, European explorers, and African American slaves, offering unique insights into the human history of the Southeastern United States. Ranger Programs: Rangers provide guided tours and educational programs that delve into the history, culture, and nature of the area. Check the schedule for seasonal events and programs. Picnic Areas: Scenic picnic areas allow visitors to relax and enjoy the outdoor setting. Accessibility: The park's visitor center, museum, and Earth Lodge are accessible to visitors with mobility challenges, and portions of the trail system are also accessible. Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park provides a rich and engaging experience for history enthusiasts, families, nature lovers, and anyone interested in exploring the diverse heritage of the region. From the ancient mounds to the peaceful trails, the park offers a journey through time that connects the present to the distant past. Whether spending a few hours or an entire day, visitors will find much to explore and appreciate in this remarkable site.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Andy 1 year ago on Google
    What a beautiful location. There is so much human history here. The mounds were beautiful to see and took ones breath away to think about what humans were able to accomplish so long ago. Great place not just to learn history but to walk and hike the grounds. Very well kept.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 StevePotts 7 months ago on Google • 103 reviews
    A "must see" for those interested in Indian mounds and their history. The grounds are well-maintained and the Visitor Center offers a nice display of artifacts and history. I recommend perusing the museum before venturing onto the grounds.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tracy L. 9 months ago on Google • 25 reviews
    This place is so amazing! To be able to see things from so far in the past is humbling. The scenery is breathtaking. There is a lot of walking outdoors, so come prepared, with water and bug spray. The rangers working at the park are great. My kids loved the Jr ranger work and the pledge and badge. I will be back!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 JitkaKac 2 years ago on Google
    These mounds are the coolest in Georgia! The museum is awesome, lots of artifacts and complex information about the life of Indian tribes in the South. We also walked around for an hour so it's a great workout! And it's free!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 The Adult S. 9 months ago on Google
    With a picnic basket of goodies and a full tank of gas, you can travel back in time and have a memorable experience. It's breathtaking to walk the grounds. Come feel the energy, sweat away any stress you carried there and soak up the sun. During the summer months, please be mindful of the heat and of course the 🐊 but it was definitely fun. We will come back.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 leader s. 2 years ago on Google
    Keeping in mind, Macon(city)..and flat..I was pleasantly surprised...many tree canopy trails, walking paths as well as some bike trails...also neat mounds which you can go inside of one..used 1000s of years ago by natives...the park employees were very informative.. trails marked well...and clean...from board walks to gators.. worth a visit.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 BOTOS S. 10 months ago on Google
    Free parking. This is a fun outdoor family outing. The visitor center has a museum and giftshop inside. There are trails all around the mounds. There are a few signs about alligators common in the area. BRING BUG SPRAY THEY GOT TICKS
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Morgan W. 2 years ago on Google
    Excellent historic site to stop and visit. The visitors center has a wealth of information and friendly park rangers to answer questions. The main mound is a bit of a walk from the visitors center but there is also a parking area nearby if you’re short on time.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael G. 2 years ago on Google
    Staff were friendly and helpful. The on-demand video was very informative, and there is a great set of displays that cover the history of the site. I'm not convinced the distances to various locations on the signposts are accurate, but we really appreciated getting into the one mound, and being able to walk the property and up onto the greater temple mound.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 J S. 4 months ago on Google • 130 reviews
    Beautiful visitor center and well Preserved grounds. Nice 17 minute orientation film too. Mounds are all within walking distance to visitor center but does take some time to walk in between. Walk ways are nice but do provide challenge to those with mobility issues.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Moving on with Old Man River Old man r. 2 years ago on Google
    This park is not for the walking disabled as there are a lot of stairs to get to the top mounds. I counted 73 total on the largest one. Well worth the walk to the top great views of the river and other mounds. The ceremony mound entrance is a for short people. The visitor center has wonderful displays of the life and art of the uilders. Be sure to do the junior ranger program.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jeff S. 1 year ago on Google
    It's a living history lesson experience for all. Even though the parking lot was full it didn't seem crowded since there is so much to see. They nice walking trails that help spread out the visitors. From the largest mound you can look up the hill and see the replica of one the four corner watch towers of Fort Benjamin Hawkins that was built before the City of Macon was established. I recommend visiting and experiencing the mounds. There are fewer visitors during the week days, if really wants to feel the spiritual solitude of the mounds.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chris B. 1 year ago on Google
    A short drive north east out of Macon, GA Ocmulgee Mounds is a perfect oasis to go hiking as well as learning the history of these Indian burial mounds. The rangers and staff on site are friendly, and the grounds are very well kept. The paths to the mounds are asphalt, however, there are plenty of dirt/gravel trails and biking paths to enjoy. In two visits this month I have seen quite a diverse wildlife from white tail deer on the trails to hawks and yes even some gators in the pond from a distance! Highly recommended this spot if looking for a place nearby.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jacob K. 11 months ago on Google
    We were only able to spend about an hour here because we had to get back on the road, but we really enjoyed ourselves. The short hike from the visitor center to the Earth Lodge and the Great Spirit Mound are well worth it. The Earth Lodge has air conditioning so stop and peak inside and cool off. The trek up to the spirit mound has a lot of steps and is a little strenuous but the view is worth it.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 William C. A. 1 year ago on Google
    Very interesting history to be found at this park. The mounds are fascinating structures. So glad they had this park dedicated to the history of them. Worth the visit while touring #Macon #GA
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Swapan R. 1 year ago on Google
    Historic National Park site, with fully staffed visitor's center, trails, and tribal mounds. The museum contains historic artifacts (1,000 AD) and it’s worth visiting. For hiking, from visitors center to temple/burial mound would be around 2 miles. Pro Tip : For hiking, carry insect repellent and bottled water.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Joshua R. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful Art Deco visitor center to honor the theme of the site. Visitor center gives great overview of such a long history at this site. Trails are easy to follow to the mounds. Walking then gives you more appreciation of what went into making them.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 SindieLou S. 2 years ago on Google
    Only was able to get a quick visit in. Will definitely come back! The welcome center has a lot of interesting artifacts and history of the area. Well done! This site has an earthen mound that you can walk into (it is not handicap accessible, and tall individuals must have the ability to bend low to enter). Take a picnic because this could be a great outdoor experience all day. Enjoy!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Sarah P. 4 months ago on Google • 47 reviews
    Worth a visit, the visitor center has a lot that helps engage kids into it. Looks like some good hiking trails.

  • 5/5 Sarah J. 5 months ago on Google • 33 reviews
    This park is easy and quick to reach after getting off the interstate. There was plenty of parking. Picnic tables were available near the parking lot. We were greeted by a friendly staff member. The building is Art Moderne and has a certain charm, although some might consider it dated. The bathrooms were tidy. The museum had interesting artifacts and exhibits relating to the history of Macon and the Native American tribes that once occupied the land. We were able to access the trail leading to the mounds without help or guidance. We ventured off the "main" path to look for a nearby geocache. There is a trail system that goes through the park that connects you to other places along the Ocmulgee river/Macon. We hopped back onto the main trail and accessed the largest mound via a grassy slope. The stairs may leave you out of breath, but the view from the top is worth it. I would definitely recommend going in cooler weather as there is no shade along the main path or on the mounds. Although kids may not be able to appreciate the history of this site, I wouldn't hesitate to bring them. There is plenty of space to run and play and explore. This park may not be for you if you don't like to walk or be outside. Other than that, enjoy this beautiful space!

  • 5/5 Alejandro C. 7 months ago on Google • 13 reviews
    Amazing outdoor trail with tombs and exhibits along the way. The museum was very intriguing and had great exhibits. Great view of Macon at the end of the trail on top of the largest indian mound in Georgia.

  • 5/5 Denise Hikerbabes K. 6 months ago on Google
    Definitely worth the stop! We made Macon our stop on our way between Indiana & Florida because of Ocmulgee. I run 3 HikerBabes Chapters in IN & KY. So, I always work a little bit of hiking into trips! While this is a National Historical Site, you can still get an NPS stamp! We only stopped for about an hour to make good time for arriving in FL. I would have liked to have spent more time checking out the Visitor’s Center! We did a short hike through the park and visited the “main,” Mounds. Loved all of the informational signs! They also had doggie bags to clean up after your pet! This NPS managed site does not require a pass or payment!

  • 5/5 Jeffrey L. 9 months ago on Google
    Great national treasure here. Spent half a day with my wife and three year old exploring the park. The Opelofa Loop from the Great Temple Mound was easy enough for my daughter to walk and enjoy the animals and bugs. Staff was super friendly and we enjoyed the history presented at the visitor center.

  • 5/5 Andrew N. 1 year ago on Google
    Wear good shoes and bring lots of water. You can walk as much as you want and there are lots of hills. Very interesting and well done. There is a water bottle refill station outside of the visitors center.

  • 5/5 Erika R. 4 months ago on Google • 12 reviews
    Arrived kind of late in the day, but the girl at the front desk was amazing. She was super friendly, and even let the kids have jr ranger books to complete. She was so kind, and good at her job. I would love to return to hike more.

  • 5/5 Sean R. 1 year ago on Google
    Ocmulgee Mounds is a National Historic Park and a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts. The site provides a glimpse into the lives and customs of a fascinating civilization that thrived in the region long before the arrival of European explorers. I parked and got info at the visitor center. Hopefully I didn't get any ticks.

  • 5/5 Sanjeeta P. 1 year ago on Google
    Wonderful experience visiting this place. Entrance is free. Lot of history. You can watch a video at the visitor center and learn about the place. Many exhibits at the center. Park rangers are very knowledgeable and helpful. Mounds are easily accessible and easy walk from the center. The nearest from visitor center is the earth lodge and you can go inside the mound. Lot of trails to explore the place.


Call +1 478-752-8257 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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