About Lockerly
Mission
Lockerly Arboretum ignites curiosity and wonder by connecting people to the beauty of horticulture, the richness of nature, and the stories of our shared heritage.
Vision
We envision Lockerly Arboretum as a beloved and inspiring destination where people of every age discover, explore, and care for the natural world. Through immersive programs, inviting landscapes, and meaningful community partnerships, we cultivate a lifelong love of nature, history, and environmental stewardship.
Proud Members Of:
Our Programs
Education
Serving approximately 3,000 children and adults each year, Lockerly’s education programs are tailored for every age and embrace hands-on activities. Programs for students are in compliance with the Georgia Performance Standards as well as requirements for Eagle Scout badges and Master Gardener certifications. Lectures and workshops are conducted throughout the year for adults including participants from the Life Enrichment Center, a program for adults with intellectual disabilities living in and around Baldwin County.
Horticulture
E.J. Grassmann envisioned a diverse collection of plants and trees in the Arboretum and our plantings are made with that vision in mind. Today, Lockerly boasts 50 acres of gardens, walking trails, and a pond. Our plantings feature flowering shrubs such as camellias and azaleas, and a variety of trees including oaks and magnolias as well as perennials and annuals. A 1 mile nature trail is home to many mature hardwoods, ferns and wildflowers, including a Tall Stewartia (Stewartia monadelpha), a small leaf Vibernum and a Cedar Elm, all Georgia State Champion trees.
Historic Preservation
Lockerly Arboretum’s beautiful Greek Revival Home, Rose Hill, was built by Judge Daniel Tucker in 1852, when Milledgeville was capital of Georgia. This magnificent treasure provides a window into 19th century life and serves as a museum, event venue and classroom facility. Rose Hill was placed in the National Register of Historic Places in April 2017 and was awarded Great American Treasure designation but the National Society of Colonial Dames in 2025.