The region along the Ocmulgee River saw over 17,000 years of continuous human habitation and over 2,000 artifacts have been recovered from the site. There are also new exhibits at the park's visitor center that feature traditional skills and art by citizens of The Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The Nation now resides in Okmulgee, Oklahoma after being forced out of the region due to the Indian Removal Act in the 1830s. Local organizations such as the Ocmulgee National Park and Preserve Initiative(ONPPI), Ocmulgee Mounds Association(OMA), Visit Macon, and elected officials are working with The Muscogee Nation to tell the story of the people and land accurately and respectfully. 

 

Every September, indigenous communities and visitors gather at the Ocmulgee Mounds for the Ocmulgee Indigenous Celebration which celebrates Southeastern Native American culture. Traditional vendors, food, demonstrations, dance and activities make up the two-day festival. Transportation during the celebration is easy thanks to shuttles that drive visitors to the park and back!
 

The Lantern Light Tour, annually held in the Spring during the International Cherry Blossom Festival, offers a rare look at the mounds. Grab a lantern and stroll along the luminary-lined path from the Visitor Center to the top of the Great Temple Mound. The mound overlooks downtown Macon's nighttime cityscape and is a stargazer's dream spot thanks to a beautiful view of the night sky with minimal light pollution.