Yellowstone National Park provides an unparalleled opportunity for tourists to witness bison in one of their original habitats. The park is the only place in the United States where bison have lived continuously since prehistoric times, making up the largest bison population on public land in the country.
The 2024 bison population estimate was 5,400, typically ranging from 3,500 to nearly 6,000. They roam relatively freely, spreading over the expansive landscape of Yellowstone National Park and some nearby areas of Montana. Unfortunately some visitors fail to respect the wildlife, approaching far too close and putting both themselves and the animals in danger.
The safest and best place for viewing wildlife inside Yellowstone National Park is from inside a car. Tourists are asked to stay with their car if they encounter wildlife jams and keep plenty of distance between themselves and the animals (at least 75 feet). Bison have injured more animals inside the park than any other animal. Read more on wildlife safety below.
Yellowstone National Park Bison Safety Guidelines:
Bison have injured more people in Yellowstone than any other animal. Bison are unpredictable and can run three times faster than humans. Always stay at least 25 yards (23 m) away from bison.
- Give bison space when they are near a campsite, trail, boardwalk, parking lot, or in a developed area. If need be, turn around and go the other way to avoid interacting with a wild animal in close proximity. 
- Approaching bison threatens them, and they may respond by bluff charging, head bobbing, pawing, bellowing, or snorting. These are warning signs that you are too close and that a charge is imminent.
- Do not stand your ground. Immediately walk or run away from the animal. Spray bear spray as you are moving away if the animal follows you.
