ELK & BISON PRAIRIE
Experience the Animals From Your Car
The Elk & Bison Prairie offers a chance to see large native animals roaming freely in a natural setting. This enclosed prairie covers thousands of acres inside Land Between the Lakes and is home to herds of plains bison and Rocky Mountain elk.
The experience is a self-guided drive along a gravel loop road that winds through open fields and wooded areas. There are no guarantees, but visitors often spot animals grazing, crossing the road, or resting in shaded areas, especially during cooler parts of the day.
Interpretive signs along the route explain the history of elk and bison in the region and how these species were reintroduced to the area. The prairie plays an important role in wildlife restoration and land management at LBL.
Quick Facts
- The Trace, Cadiz, KY
- Open Year Round
- Sunrise to Sunset
- Pets Should Remain in Vehicle
- Pull-Offs with Interpretive Signage
- Elk, Bison, Deer, Turkey & others
Because the animals roam freely, each visit feels different. Some drives are quiet, while others offer multiple close-range sightings from the safety of your vehicle. Patience makes a difference here.
The prairie is popular with first-time visitors, photographers, and families looking for something memorable that does not require hiking. It is also a good option for visitors with limited mobility, since the experience is primarily vehicle-based.
Plan for about an hour, depending on how often you stop and how active the herds are. Many visitors pair the drive with nearby stops like Golden Pond or Woodlands Nature Station.
Before You Go
Plan ahead by bringing snacks, water, and anything you’ll want for a few hours outdoors. Besides vending machines, there are no food options once you’re inside LBL.
Picnic Areas
There are no picnic areas in the prairie, but are nearby at Jenny Ridge & the Visitor Center.
Visiting With Dogs
Dogs must stay in your vehicle at all times when visiting the Prairie.
Admission
Admission is $5 per vehicle.
Best Time to Visit
Anytime of year, but during the day, mornings and evenings are usually best. Middays during hot weather is the worst time to go.
What you need to know
Plan Your Trip
The Elk & Bison Prairie is a self-guided driving experience with a $5 per vehicle entry fee, which can be purchased on site. No permits or advance reservations are required, making it easy to add to your day at LBL.
The loop road through the prairie is fully paved and suitable for standard vehicles. The drive is designed to be slow and scenic, with pull-offs where you can stop briefly when animals are visible.
Visitors are required to remain inside their vehicles when elk or bison are within sight. When animals are not present, short stops are allowed at interpretive signage pull-offs. This helps protect both visitors and wildlife while keeping the experience relaxed and safe.
Sightings vary by time of day and season. Early morning and late afternoon often offer the best chances, but patience is part of the experience. Plan to move slowly, follow posted guidelines, and allow about an hour to complete the loop.
Questions & Answers About The Elk & Bison Prairie
