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Montana > Montana Wildlife Refuges > National Bison Range National Wildlife Refuge

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National Bison Range National Wildlife Refuge

General Information

Description - The National Bison Range is a diverse ecosystem of grasslands, Douglas fir and ponderosa pine forests, riparian areas and ponds. Elevation ranges from 2,585 ft. at the headquarters to 4,885 ft. at High Point lookout.

The National Bison Range is one of the last government owned palouse prairie native grasslands in the U.S. It supports a herd of 450 to 500 Bison, 125 elk, 200 mule deer, 200 white-tailed deer, 125 pronghorn, 40 big horn sheep, 40-50 mountain goats as well as various predators such as coyotes, mountain lions, bears and bobcat and a variety of smaller mammals. The refuge has recorded 205 bird species with more added every year.

In addition to providing for bison and other wildlife, the area provides for the public enjoyment of over 200,000 visitors per year who come to observe the wildlife and their habitat, and participate in outdoor education activities. The range is also an important area for the study of wildlife populations and their natural history, native grasslands, and riparian corridors.

Location -

Current Conditions & Trip Reports

Trip Reports:
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Filed By: Dana Jones (Sedro Woolley,, Wa. )
Number of People Encountered: 0-10 ppl
Recommend to a Friend: Highly
Report: I began visiting the NBR as a 5 year old child in the mid 1950's. The bison had a huge impact on me, tho I wouldn't realize it until I was 30-something. In 1987 I began my own herd and for the past 16 years have hosted educational tours for youth groups and senior centers every summer. I firmly believe that children who respect wildlife become better adults. And I am living proof of that theory. Thank you NBR for pointing me down the bison path!