Co-based metal organic frameworks (Co-MOFs) are porous crystalline materials formed by the coupling of metallic cobalt ions and organic ligands. Co₃O₄ based catalysts derived from Co-MOFs have attracted great attention in the field of catalysis. In this paper, some familiar Co-MOFs materials and the latest progress are introduced, such as ZIF-67, Co-MOF-71 and Co-MOF-74. The preparation techniques of these Co-MOFs are described in detail, including co-precipitation, sol–gel method, dipping method, hydrothermal method, solid phase grinding method, self-assembled template method and so on. The research progress of its application in the field of catalytic oxidation reaction is also highlighted. Based on the report of published literatures, we analyzed the design ideas of Co-MOFs materials and put forward the prospect for the future development.