Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park- 17,000 Years Worth of Remarkable History

The Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park are essentially a massive 2,000-acre time capsule that contains 17,000 years worth of human history. This park, which could potentially be America’s newest National Park, is located in the hills of Macon, Georgia.

Currently, this park is classified as a national historic park. The Ocmulgee Mounds are home to one of the National Park Service’s largest archaeological collections. The site includes thousands of ancient artifacts dating back to the last Ice Age.

The park is most-known for being the home to artificial mounds, constructed out of dirt and clay, between 900 and 1100. These mounds were part of Native American villages and once served as platforms for temples, homes, and public buildings. The grandest of these mounds is a 55-foot-tall Great Temple Mound. It is here that the natives could watch over their village to keep it safe from potential harm. There are steps leading to the top of the mound. You’ll definitely want to make the climb to the top for sweeping views of the park, the hillside, and the Macon skyline.

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The Ocmulgee Mounds

This park may look like a series of naturally occurring rolling green hills, but in actuality these mounds stand as a testament to the hardworking Native Americans that once called this place their home. Many different Indigenous cultures have occupied this land for thousands of years. The first wave of people came here 17,000 years ago hunting Ice Age Animals. Around 900 CE, the Mississippians constructed mounds for their leaders.

Once of our favorite park experiences was exploring the Earth Lodge. The lodge is a reconstructed council chamber that would have been used by the Mississippian culture. The recreation contains the original clay floor that dates back to 1015.

The ancient complex contains seven different mounds of varying sizes. They include; Cornfield Mound, Southeast Mound, Mound X, McDougal Mound, Great Temple Mound Complex and the Funeral Mound.

Evidence of a five-sided structure known as the “Trading Post” was also discovered on the site in 1936. It was believed that this was built in the late 1690s and served as a trading location for the English and the Creek nation.

Unfortunately, portions of the mounds were destroyed when the railroad was put in. Much of the park remains unexcavated, it will be interesting to see what is uncovered in the future. For now, relics that have been uncovered on the site are available for viewing in the museum located in the Visitors Center.

National Historic Park vs National Park

National Historic Parks typically contain a site of historical significance and preserve areas with deep American history. National Parks are the crown-jewels of the National Park System. They are generally large, natural spaces that sometimes include historic assets.

Considering the park preserves 17,000 years of human history, the site definitely has deep roots in American history across 2,000 protected acres, the park could very well meet the qualifications for becoming a National Park. The park could potentially expand to protect 50,000+ acres of land.

The park could also provide river access. The Class I Ocmulgee River Water Trail spans 200 miles. This would be an excellent spot for paddling.

The twelve mile Ocmulgee Heritage Trail is already underway. The biking and hiking trail connects Macon’s historic attractions, including the mounds and the Otis Redding Bridge.

Visiting the Ocmulgee Mounds

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park grounds and walking trails are open 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 park is located in Macon, Georgia.

What is there to do nearby?

Tubman Museum
Museum of Arts and Sciences
Ocmulgee Heritage Trail
The Allman Brothers Band Museum at The Big House
The Hay House
The Cannonball House

There is another set of mounds in Cartersville known as the Etowah Indian Mounds.

What Should I Take With Me?

When you’re hiking, please remember to leave no trace! This means to pack out everything that you pack in and if you see trash, pick it up.

Backpack– to store all of your belongings
Dry Bag– to keep your electronics and wallet safe, in case of rain (or kayaking)
Trail GPS– the Garmin Oregon handled GPS works offline. You can view maps, waypoints, tracks, and trails even if you don’t have a signal.
First-Aid Kit– this ultralight, watertight medical kit is a must if you’re hitting the trails!
Sunscreen- yes, you can get sunburned in the forest.
Insect Repellant
Water Bottle– Always pack more water than you think you’ll need!
Snacks

Hammock– I honestly pack a hammock on most hiking trips. Psh, I even bring them along with me when we go on cruises. There are plenty of spots in the forest to put up a hammock and chill out for a bit.

If you’re traveling with your pup, like we often do, be sure to bring along their leash, poop bags, a water dish (this one is collapsible), extra water, food, and snacks.