The Oxbow Eco-Center and trail, 225 acres on the North Fork of the St. Lucie River in Port St. Lucie, is interesting and educational.  Spend a lovely afternoon taking in the sites along the well manicured trail bordered by Saw Palmettos and Slash Pine through much of the trail.  You will see Dahoon Holly and Prickly Pear on your stroll, as well as other forms of vegetation.  There are nice little signs at various points naming the plants you will see and showing pictures so you will be able to easily identify each one.  Maps are also placed strategically alongside the path.

There are different paths, and you can choose which trail to walk on depending on how far you want to walk.  You will have several opportunities to step onto the observation areas.  It is a pleasant way to spend a morning or afternoon.

Before you walk the trail, a visit to the Center is recommended.  Bring your kids and they will learn a tremendous amount about ecology.  In the Center, you will be able to handle some of the artifacts and see a few of Florida's native reptiles in cages and aquariums.  You may even be lucky enough to be there at feeding time!  Check the website for their calendar of events.  www.stlucieco.gov/erd/oxbow