There was a time when wild bison roamed throughout Iowa – especially in the Northwest and Northcentral areas of the state. By the 1860s, sightings became rare and they eventually disappeared from the wild.
There’s a place in Iowa where you can still see these majestic creatures out in the field. Bare Bison, a working bison farm in Van Meter, offers tours that give visitors a chance to ride right up to a real bison herd.
The offload tours are incredible – here’s how they work.
Bare Bison is only about 25 miles away from downtown Des Moines, but it’s another world. It’s a bison farm that says it strives to raise high-quality bison for meat, through purposeful ranching and harvesting.
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The farm sprawls across 350 acres in Van Meter. It’s the perfect place to raise bison and it’s an ideal spot for visitors to see the animals.
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Guided tours give visitors a chance to get a close look at a bison farm and see the power and beauty of the animals.
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Side by side vehicles are used for the tours and the vehicles travel all over the farm. Be sure to wear appropriate shoes and outerwear for the tour because at times you’ll be outside. A hat and sunscreen are a good idea on sunny days.
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The bison are not only beautiful - they are large! Male bison can stand 6-feet-tall and weigh 2,000 pounds! They are the largest mammal in North America. Be sure to bring a device to take pictures or video - you’ll want to remember this tour.
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The farm sells a variety of high-quality bison steaks, snacks and more - according to the farm, the bison they raise tastes incredible and is good for you.
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You can schedule a tour of Bare Bison on their website and also order their bison products. Interested in another unusual farm tour? This Iowa farm raises kangaroos!
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Address: Bare Bison, 1374 Badger Creek Rd, Van Meter, IA 50261, USA
