They were nearly wiped off the map.
Once thundering across the plains in herds so vast they made the ground tremble, the American bison was pushed to the edge of extinction. But guess what? These shaggy titans are making a comeback—and they’re picking their favorite states to do it.
From snow-covered grasslands to sun-drenched prairies, bison are reclaiming their territory one hoofbeat at a time. And some states? They’ve become full-blown bison strongholds.
So which places in the U.S. are rolling out the red carpet for these woolly legends?
Grab your mental map—because the answers may surprise you.
South Dakota
South Dakota offers a bison lover’s paradise. Home to the iconic Custer State Park, the state hosts one of the largest publicly-owned herds of bison. Visitors can witness these majestic creatures roam free in their natural habitat. The annual Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup is a sight to behold, attracting thousands of spectators every year.
The event not only showcases the bison’s grandeur but also highlights South Dakota’s commitment to bison conservation. Here, bison are more than just wildlife; they are a symbol of the state’s wild and untamed spirit.
Montana
In Montana, bison reign supreme. The state is home to both public and private herds, including those residing in Yellowstone National Park. These bison are part of the only continuously free-ranging bison herd in the United States.
Montana provides a unique blend of wilderness and history, as bison have been integral to the state’s ecosystem for centuries. The expansive landscapes support the herds, allowing them to roam freely. In Montana, the bison embody resilience, standing strong against the backdrop of challenging terrains and harsh winters.
Wyoming
Wyoming’s sweeping vistas and rugged terrain make it an ideal habitat for bison. The state shares Yellowstone National Park with Montana, providing sanctuary to a significant population of these magnificent mammals.
Beyond Yellowstone, Wyoming’s Thunder Basin National Grassland offers bison a vast playground of open space and natural beauty. The state’s conservation efforts help maintain a stable bison population, ensuring they continue to thrive in the wild. For those seeking a glimpse of America’s past, Wyoming’s bison offer a portal to another time.
North Dakota
North Dakota might be known for its open landscapes, but it also plays a crucial role in bison conservation. Theodore Roosevelt National Park is home to a thriving bison population, offering visitors a chance to see these creatures in their natural environment.
The park’s rolling hills and mixed-grass prairies provide an ideal habitat, allowing bison to graze freely. North Dakota’s dedication to preserving its natural heritage ensures that the bison remain an integral part of the state’s ecosystem. Here, history and nature coexist beautifully.
Nebraska
Nebraska, with its vast plains and rich history, serves as a haven for bison. The state’s Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge supports a vibrant bison herd, contributing to conservation and educational efforts.
Visitors to the refuge can explore the diverse landscapes and observe bison in their natural setting. Nebraska’s commitment to wildlife preservation is evident in its efforts to maintain healthy bison populations. The bison here are a testament to the state’s dedication to protecting these magnificent creatures for future generations.
Colorado
Colorado’s diverse landscapes offer a unique environment for bison. The state is home to several public and private herds, with notable populations in the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge.
This refuge provides a sanctuary for bison, allowing them to roam across the grasslands. Colorado’s commitment to conservation is reflected in its efforts to integrate bison into the state’s ecological framework. The presence of bison adds to Colorado’s rich tapestry of wildlife, offering visitors a chance to witness these iconic animals in a stunning natural setting.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma plays a pivotal role in bison conservation, boasting several protected herds across the state. The Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, managed by The Nature Conservancy, is home to one of the largest bison herds in the country.
Here, bison roam free on vast tracts of preserved grassland, contributing to the ecological balance of the region. Oklahoma’s dedication to preserving its natural landscapes ensures that bison continue to thrive, embodying the spirit of the American West. The state offers a glimpse into the past, where bison roamed freely across the plains.
Kansas
Kansas, with its expansive prairies, serves as an important sanctuary for bison. The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve offers a glimpse into the region’s ecological history, with bison playing a crucial role in the prairie ecosystem.
Visitors can witness bison herds grazing among the native grasses, a reminder of the vast herds that once roamed North America. Kansas’ commitment to preserving its natural heritage ensures that these majestic creatures remain a part of the state’s landscape. The bison here symbolize the enduring spirit of the prairie.
Texas
Texas, known for its wide-open spaces, offers a vast canvas for bison herds. Private ranches and wildlife preserves across the state support significant populations of these iconic creatures. Caprock Canyons State Park is a notable sanctuary, where bison roam amidst stunning red rock formations.
The park’s vibrant landscape provides an ideal habitat, allowing bison to thrive in the Texas sun. Texas’ dedication to wildlife conservation is evident in its management of bison herds, ensuring they remain an integral part of the state’s natural heritage.
Utah
Utah offers a unique habitat for bison on Antelope Island, located in the Great Salt Lake. This state park is home to a healthy bison population, attracting visitors eager to see these majestic animals up close.
The island’s diverse ecosystems provide a rich environment for bison, with open grasslands and stunning views of the surrounding lake. Utah’s commitment to conservation ensures that bison continue to thrive, offering a glimpse into the state’s wild and beautiful landscapes. The bison here stand as icons of resilience and natural beauty.
Idaho
Idaho’s vast wilderness areas provide a sanctuary for bison, with notable populations in the Henry’s Fork Wildlife Management Area. This region supports a diverse array of wildlife, with bison playing a key role in the ecosystem.
The state’s commitment to conservation is reflected in its efforts to maintain healthy bison populations, ensuring they remain a vital part of Idaho’s natural heritage. Visitors to the area can experience the beauty of the landscape while observing bison in their natural habitat. Idaho’s bison symbolize strength and perseverance.
New Mexico
New Mexico’s varied landscapes offer a unique environment for bison, with herds residing in the Vermejo Park Ranch. This vast private reserve supports a thriving bison population, contributing to conservation and sustainability efforts.
The ranch’s commitment to preserving the natural habitat ensures that bison continue to roam freely across the landscape. New Mexico’s dedication to wildlife protection is evident in its management of bison herds, offering a glimpse into the state’s wild and diverse beauty. The bison here are a testament to the state’s rich natural legacy.
Alaska
Alaska may be known for its icy landscapes, but it also supports a thriving bison population. The Delta Junction Bison Range is a key area where bison roam freely, offering a unique glimpse into the state’s diverse wildlife.
The range’s vast expanse provides an ideal habitat, allowing bison to flourish in the Alaskan wilderness. Alaska’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage ensures that bison remain an integral part of the state’s ecosystem. Here, bison symbolize the untamed beauty and rugged spirit of the Alaskan frontier.
Hawaii
Picture this: a small herd of bison contentedly grazing under the swaying palms of a lush Hawaiian landscape. It’s not the first place you would imagine finding these iconic creatures, but Hawaii’s unique environment offers a surprising sanctuary for them. Nestled in private reserves, they roam with a sense of serenity and freedom.
The tropical setting not only supports their well-being but also provides a unique opportunity for bison to thrive far from their traditional Great Plains habitat. This unexpected pairing of bison with Hawaii’s vibrant flora creates a truly mesmerizing tableau.
Did you know? These bison are not native but were introduced to support genetic diversity and conservation efforts. Their presence adds an intriguing layer to Hawaii’s rich tapestry of biodiversity.