Although rampant poaching reduced Yellowstone National Park’s bison population to about two dozen animals at the turn of the century, through careful conservation efforts the park is now home to America’s largest bison population on public land with a 2024 population estimate of 5,400.
Yellowstone’s bison tend to congregate in the lower grasslands during summer months but are free to roam the park and turn up just about anywhere you go, including the volleyball court outside of the staff dormitories.
Thankfully these park employees were well versed in bison safety protocols and immediately called time-out on their game to make way for the massive animal to pass through peacefully.
If you plan on visiting Yellowstone you should be aware that despite bison often appearing sluggish and docile, they are actually remarkably agile and extremely dangerous when provoked. Bison have injured more people in Yellowstone than any other animal and to prevent negative encounters tourists are advised to maintain a minimum 25 yard distance away from them at all time. Learn more about bison safety at Yellowstone National Park 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.
