Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo

Path of Imagination Natural Playscape

5731 County Road 105 NW, Byron, MN 55920

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This play space was created in 2015 primarily designed and built by park staff. They wanted to increase the connection with the outdoors in a safe and natural way. This playscape integrates environmental education in a passive way through play and allows for naturalist programming.

Weather created a challenge in the construction of the play space. In addition, staff had to use trial and error to determine what natural features could hold up long-term or would be a temporary feature.

Elements/Features

• Loose natural materials (e.g. tree cookies, small logs, natural debris)

• Designated climbing area (e.g. trees, boulders, net)

• Designated digging area

• Man-made stream/water play area

• A flat area or open field

• Smell garden

• Sound garden or music area

• International wildlife habitat (e.g. bird houses, insect garden, etc.)

• Interactive plant features (willow dome, tall grass maze, etc.)

• Sit spot(s) for quiet contemplation

• Educational/interpretive signage

• Educational programming (e.g. field trips, camps, classes)

• Tools (e.g. dip or insect nets, spades, binoculars, magnifiers)

• Variable terrain/topography

• Interactive solar system

• Environmental related recycled art

Installation Details

• Cost: $65,000

• Designers: Oxbow Park and Pullman Zoo staff

• General Contact for Questions: oxbow@co.olmsted.mn.us