March 29, 2024

Bison Day is Saturday at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge

Take a step back in time at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge’s Annual Bison Day.

All ages are welcome to spend a day on the prairie and discover the wonders of the bison. The free event will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. Activities include arts and crafts, games, scavenger hunts, discovery hikes, children’s story-time, archaeological and Native American displays, and a weaver’s guild demonstration. Participants will also enjoy hands-on activities including rope-making and the chance to learn flint knapping to craft an arrowhead.

Throughout the day, visitors can tour the bison and elk enclosure, see live bison, and even listen in on a talk from our refuge biologist to learn all about the herd at Neal Smith NWR.

A 2 p.m. Bison Chip Toss contest will complete the day’s activities with prizes for each of the winners. All of these activities are free and open to the public.

Bison burgers and hot dogs will also be available for purchase. Be sure to bring along your sense of wonder, cheerful spirit and a well-practiced throwing arm. For more information on the event, contact Megan Wandag at 515-994-3400 or megan_wandag@fws.gov.