Discover Elk & Bison Prairie: A Wildlife Wonderland
Explore Elk & Bison Prairie: a breathtaking national forest in Kentucky, home to majestic wildlife and stunning natural landscapes for nature lovers.
Nestled in the heart of Kentucky, Elk & Bison Prairie offers a serene escape into nature, featuring stunning landscapes and the chance to observe magnificent wildlife. With over 3,400 acres of pristine wilderness, this national forest is renowned for its thriving populations of elk and bison, providing visitors with unforgettable moments of wildlife viewing. As you explore the scenic trails and expansive prairies, you'll encounter a diverse array of flora and fauna in their natural habitats, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
A brief summary to Elk & Bison Prairie
- Elk & Bison Prairie Rd, Golden Pond, Kentucky, 42211, US
- +1270-924-2233
- Monday 6:11 am-6:53 pm
- Tuesday 6:11 am-6:53 pm
- Wednesday 6:11 am-6:53 pm
- Thursday 6:11 am-6:53 pm
- Friday 6:11 am-6:53 pm
- Saturday 6:11 am-6:53 pm
- Sunday 6:11 am-6:53 pm
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife sightings.
- Don't forget your binoculars and camera for stunning wildlife photography.
- Check out the visitor center for educational exhibits about the local wildlife.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails and exploring the vast landscapes.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving within Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, take the main road (US-68) towards Golden Pond, KY. From there, look for signs directing you to Elk & Bison Prairie. Turn onto Elk & Bison Prairie Rd. Continue on this road until you reach the entrance of the prairie. There is no entrance fee, and ample parking is available at the site.
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Public Transportation
Public transportation options are limited in Land Between the Lakes. If you are in nearby cities like Paducah or Murray, consider taking a taxi or rideshare service to get to the National Recreation Area. Once you arrive at Land Between the Lakes, you will need to rent a bike or use a car for the final leg. Follow the same route as mentioned above by car from the main entrance to Elk & Bison Prairie.
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Biking
For those who prefer to bike, you can rent a bike from a local shop in nearby cities or at the visitor center. Follow US-68 to Golden Pond. From there, take Elk & Bison Prairie Rd. The prairie is approximately 5 miles from the main road, and the route is relatively flat, making it suitable for cyclists. Make sure to wear a helmet and bring water for the journey.
Discover more about Elk & Bison Prairie
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wranglers Campground: Land Between the Lakes
7.5 km
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Taylor Bay Backcountry Area & Boat Ramp at Land Between the Lakes
11.1 km
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Northernmost point of Tennessee and Kentucky-Tennessee corner
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Kentucky Lake Scenic Drive
26.5 km
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Thomas Lawson House Historic Site
28.8 km
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Fort Smith (Fort Star) Historic Site
49.2 km
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Gower House Historic Site
50.2 km
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Kincaid Mounds State Historic Site
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Latham Confederate Monument
52.1 km
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Cherokee Trail Of Tears Commemorative Park
52.7 km
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Keepsake Monuments
55.8 km
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Rakkasan Memorial
56.2 km
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J.W. Reynolds Monuments-Paducah
58.0 km
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Freight House
58.1 km
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Hotel Metropolitan
58.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Jenny Ridge Picnic Area at Land Between the Lakes
1.0 km
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Golden Pond Visitor Center
1.3 km
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Golden Pond Planetarium and Observatory
1.3 km
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Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area
7.8 km
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Empire Point Nature Watch Area
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Woodlands Nature Station
12.7 km
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Lake Barkley Beach
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Moss Creek Day Use Area
21.9 km
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Marler Home
23.4 km
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Fort Donelson National Battlefield-Tennessee
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Paris Landing State Park
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Apple Valley Hillbilly Garden and Toyland
43.5 km
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Casey Jones Distillery
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Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park
47.1 km
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V.L. Childs Observation Deck
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Essential places to dine
Administration Building at Land Between the Lakes
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Kenlake State Resort Park
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Lake Barkley State Resort Park
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Patti's 1880's Settlement
28.6 km
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Kountry Kastle
53.6 km
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Mi Lindo Michoacán Mexican Restaurant
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Granny’s Soul Food
58.1 km
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Cynthia's Ristorante
58.3 km
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Max's Brick Oven Cafe
58.3 km
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Doe's Eat Place
58.3 km
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Italian Village Pizza
58.3 km
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Stella's
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Grill 211
58.4 km
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The Cork Room
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Over/Under
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Hitching Post & Old Country Store
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Fast Eddie's Bait & Tackle
17.0 km
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A Vintage Door Boutique and The Thrift Shop
18.6 km
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Cadiz Antique Mall
21.2 km
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Cedar Hill Market
23.3 km
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Gigi's Boutique and Marketplace
23.9 km
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The Wagon
27.2 km
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Rossi Oliver
27.2 km
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Five Dime Antique Mall
27.4 km
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Via Grace Gifts and More
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Rambling Angler Outdoors
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Kentucky Lake Outdoors
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Ashleigh's Boutique (at Patti's 1880's Settlement)
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The pink tractor
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Scents n More Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Belew's Dairy Bar
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Amazin Blaze BBQ
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Dinner Bell Restaurant
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Captain Jim's Grill
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Boss Hoggs Bar & Grill
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The Fishin Hole Restaurant
14.7 km
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The Pier - Floating Restaurant
15.0 km
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Sizzlin’ Sisters Lakeside Grill
16.6 km
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Fast Eddie's Place Restaurant
17.0 km
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Moors Resort & Marina
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Ralph's Harborview Bar & Grill at Moors Resort
20.5 km
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Dad's Place
23.1 km
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Echo Charlie's Bayside Restaurant
24.5 km
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