For thousands of years, millions of bison roamed the plains of North America, living at peace across the land that’s now Iowa. When early European-Americans first began to head west, they hunted the plains bison – calling them buffalo – nearly to extinction. A 1905 survey showed that there were fewer than 1,000 bison left on the continent – down from a number near 30 million in 1492. Luckily, preservation programs were formed to help protect the remaining bison, and today, you can visit with wild Iowa bison and see their majesty up close.

Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, in Prairie City, is one of the coolest places in the Hawkeye State.
Google Local / Laurie Atwater
When you visit in the spring, you'll be treated to sprawling views of wildflowers for as far as your eye can see!
Facebook / Neal Smith NWR / USFWS Nancy Corona

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Hop in the car and take an auto tour to get up close and personal with their enormous herd of wild bison.
Google Local / David MacKinnon
Thousands of years ago, they roamed these very plains in huge numbers. Today, there are few left. Spring is calving season, so it's the perfect time to visit.
Flickr/USFWS Midwest Region
The Refuge is home to more than just bison. Watch the wild Elk prance and play, and bring your binoculars for birdwatching.
Facebook / Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge

Plan a visit to the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge! You can check their website for hours and admission. The auto tour, roads, and trails are open every day from dawn to dusk. The Visitor Center is open from March 1 to November 30 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. From December 1 to February 28, hours are Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and they are closed on Sunday.

Address: 9981 Pacific Street, Prairie City, IA, 50228

For more ways to get in touch with Iowa’s wild side, read 8 Places In Iowa Where You Can Embark On An Off-The-Grid Adventure.

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