Bison in Florida? They roam with wild horses at Paynes Prairie State Park

While thinking of bison conjures scenes of the American West, perhaps bringing up images of Yellowstone National Park , these wild animals can also be found right here in the Sunshine State.

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, just south of Gainesville, comprises nearly 23,000 acres of marsh, wet prairie and open water and is home to a herd of 1,000-plus-pound bison and wild horses. The population that now numbers 50-70 bison was introduced in 1975 , starting with 10 individuals hailing from Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma.

While it’s now rare to find bison east of the Mississippi River, the Paynes Prairie bison were introduced as a way to honor the mammals’ historical range, which once extended into Florida.

Herds of wild horses, descendants of those brought to Florida by the Spanish, have roamed the prairie since 1985.

During a visit to the preserve on a sunny Sunday, I first ventured down the 2.5-mile Bolen Bluff Trail just after noon, hoping to catch a glimpse of the bison on the trail or from the observation platform at the end of the path. The first attempt yielded no luck in spotting any large mammals, but I did manage to spot a sandhill crane and a black racer snake.

When returning to the preserve around sunset, I first climbed the 50-foot observation tower just behind the visitor center, which offers wide views of the grassy expanse. I could spot horses in the distance, which I captured using my Canon R6 and Sigma 150-600mm lens. However, it wasn’t a great shot, and I was eager to get closer.

It was time to try the 8-mile Cone’s Dike Trail, a common place for spotting wildlife. I was warned by hikers heading back toward the trailhead that they had seen bison, which had come charging toward them. I cautiously moved forward and was delighted to finally spot them, peacefully grazing just west of me.

As the sun cast a gold sheen over the animals and landscape, I got my camera ready and spotted a wild foal in the middle of the pack of bison. The grazing group, which numbered at least half a dozen, stood about 100 feet from the trail, minding their own business as twilight fell over the prairie. It was awe-inspiring to watch these large beasts going about their lives right here in Florida.

In addition to bison and horses, Paynes Prairie is home to 25 distinct natural communities with more than 800 kinds of plants, nearly 300 species of birds, alligators, deer and other animals.

The preserve, a designated national natural landmark, was recently named a state geological site because it is situated on top of the Ocala Limestone, part of the state’s karst geology that makes up the porous backbone of Florida.

Visitors can extend their stay by booking one of 50 campsites (RV and tent options) in the Puc Puggy Campground near Lake Wauburg.

Important information

Location: 100 Savannah Blvd. in Micanopy

Hours: Open 8 a.m until sundown daily

Fee: $6 per vehicle

Amenities: Campground, equestrian trail, hiking trails, picnic tables and pavilions, observation tower, accessible amenities, boat ramp, parking, playground, restrooms, visitor center

Activities: Camping, cycling, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, geocaching, paddling, picnicking, wildlife viewing

Accessibility: The campground has ADA-accessible restroom facilities. In addition, the La Chua Trail boardwalk is wheelchair-accessible.

What to bring: Visitors are encouraged to pack water, snacks, sun protection and wear comfortable shoes. Binoculars are useful in spotting wildlife in the distance.

What not to bring: Florida’s state parks prohibit alcohol (except in designated areas) and the removal or destruction of plants, animals and cultural artifacts.

Pets: Leashed, well-behaved pets are allowed on select trails only. They are prohibited on some of the park’s main trails due to potential conflict with alligators, snakes and bison. Owners must pick up after pets.

Pro tips: Enjoy the abundant wildlife found at Paynes Prairie but be sure to stay at least 25 yards away at all times. Do not feed wild animals. Stay on dry paths and marked trails, and don’t be discouraged if horses and bison don’t materialize on the first visit to the park.

More information: 352-466-3397 or floridastateparks.org

Find me @PConnPie on Instagram or send me an email: pconnolly@orlandosentinel.com .