The Ocmulgee National Monument is an important archaeological site that has been continuously occupied for over 17,000 years. See an ancient earth lodge and Native American burial mounds. Gain insight into the four prehistoric cultures that inhabited this land for thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers.
Begin your visit at the monument’s Visitor Center. Learn more about the area’s history as you browse over 2,000 artifacts, which date between 10,000 B.C. and the 19th century. Watch a short informative film about the park’s history.
Visit the centerpiece of the Ocmulgee National Monument, a reconstructed earth lodge built on a floor dating back over 1,000 years. Once a council chamber of the Mississippian culture, this earth lodge had important political and spiritual significance.
See the monument’s seven surviving mounds, built between A.D. 900 and 1250. These solid earth structures were designed to elevate the homes of the village elite. Check out the Great Temple Mound which, at 55 feet (17 meters) high, is the tallest of the group.
Hike along the 11 nature trails that wind through the grounds. See Civil War relics along the short Dunlap Trail or bike along the Heritage Trail and look for small lizards and deer. The Opelofa Trail is a great choice for bird-watching enthusiasts. This trail runs through the Walnut Creek Wetlands, where osprey, anhinga and egrets can often be spotted.
Plan your visit to coincide with one of the interesting annual events hosted at the monument. Visit in the spring to enjoy evening tours by lantern light. The Ocmulgee Indian Celebration in September features singing, storytelling, art and other displays of Native American culture.
The Ocmulgee National Monument is open daily, from morning until sunset, throughout the year. There is no admission fee. It is closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. While there are no overnight facilities, it’s possible to camp nearby at Lake Tobesofkee or stay in downtown Macon, which is 2 miles (3 kilometers away).
Walk in the footsteps of our ancient ancestors at this engaging archaeological site.
