While most people associate bison with the Great Plains or Yellowstone National Park, few realize that a herd of these massive animals roam freely right here in Florida. At Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, located just south of Gainesville, visitors might spot wild bison and even Florida Cracker horses grazing across the sweeping savanna.
The 21,000-acre preserve is one of Florida’s most ecologically diverse landscapes and is often referred to as the state’s own inland “prairie.” It’s home to a surprising array of wildlife, from alligators and wading birds to deer, bobcats, and, yes, bison. The herd was introduced to the preserve in the 1970s as part of a restoration project to bring native species back to the land, and today, they can still occasionally be seen roaming the open grasslands, especially near Bolen Bluff and Cone’s Dike trails.
While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, the best chance of spotting the bison is during early morning or late afternoon hours, when the prairie is cooler and animals are more active. The La Chua Trail, a popular three-mile round trip hike, features a boardwalk and observation platform that overlooks the marshes and flatwoods where the bison often gather. For those looking for a quieter route, the Bolens Bluff Trail offers another scenic vantage point with a more secluded overlook…