Bison, once roaming freely across the vast plains of North America, were nearly driven to extinction in the late 19th century due to overhunting and habitat destruction. However, conservation efforts in recent decades have allowed wild bison populations to make a remarkable comeback. While they no longer roam across the entire country, several U.S. states have become home to thriving bison herds, playing a key role in the species’ resurgence.
1. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho
Yellowstone National Park, located in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, is one of the most famous places to see wild bison. With over 4,000 bison roaming the park, it hosts the largest and most genetically pure population in the U.S. Yellowstone’s bison are vital for maintaining the health of the park’s ecosystem. These animals graze on grasslands, helping to shape plant diversity, and their presence is essential for numerous other species. The park is not only a symbol of bison conservation but also serves as an educational site, showcasing efforts to protect these majestic animals.
2. South Dakota
South Dakota is another state where wild bison are flourishing. The state is home to several bison herds, with the most notable ones residing in Custer State Park and the Badlands National Park. Custer State Park’s herd of around 1,000 bison is one of the largest in the state, with regular rounds of bison auctions ensuring the herd remains sustainable. In addition to their importance in local ecosystems, these bison also play a significant role in South Dakota’s tourism industry, attracting visitors year-round.
3. Montana
Montana, which has a rich history of bison grazing in the state’s prairies, also boasts thriving wild populations. The state’s population is primarily concentrated in areas like the National Bison Range and the Rocky Mountain Front. The National Bison Range, located in the western part of the state, is home to approximately 400 bison. These bison play an important role in maintaining the biodiversity of the region, particularly by controlling plant species and supporting soil health. Montana’s commitment to bison conservation continues to be evident, with private ranches and state-owned lands also contributing to the growing numbers.
4. Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, bison have also made a remarkable recovery, especially in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, which has been home to a wild herd since 1907. Today, the herd is managed carefully to ensure its health and sustainability. This refuge is one of the few places where visitors can witness bison in a natural habitat, roaming freely over 59,000 acres of protected land. Bison also play a key role in the local ecosystem, influencing vegetation dynamics and supporting a variety of other wildlife species.
5. Nebraska
Nebraska is another state with successful wild bison populations, particularly in places like the Niobrara National Scenic River and the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge. Bison were reintroduced to these areas in the late 20th century, and today, the herds continue to thrive. The Niobrara River Valley’s combination of grasslands and forests provides an ideal habitat for bison, and their presence helps maintain the health of the ecosystem by controlling invasive plant species and promoting biodiversity.
6. Alaska
In Alaska, bison populations are thriving, particularly in the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where over 100 bison live. Though the state’s wild bison are not native to the area, the animals were introduced in the early 20th century and have since flourished in the state’s southern regions. The bison play an important role in shaping Alaska’s natural landscape and supporting various other species, such as bears and wolves, that rely on them for sustenance.
Conservation and the Road Ahead
These state-led successes showcase bison’s remarkable comeback—but challenges remain. Habitat fragmentation, conflicts with livestock interests, and genetic bottlenecks continue to threaten long-term resilience. Collaboration among federal agencies, tribal nations, private landowners, and wildlife organizations remains essential. By preserving large tracts of contiguous prairie and prioritizing ecosystem health, these six states offer a blueprint for how wild bison can flourish once more, ensuring that future generations witness the thunder of hooves across America’s great plains.
