Caprock Canyons State Park & Trailway

Texas State Bison Herd

Bison scattered across field

Caprock Canyons State Park is the home of the Texas State Bison Herd. To make the most of your visit, learn more:

Bison Encounters

You are visiting the home of bison! As a visitor, please observe bison etiquette. This keeps you safe and the bison calm.

Personal space

Bison are the largest land animal in North America. That means they need a lot more personal space than you do to feel comfortable.

As a rule, bison require at least 50 yards (half a football field) between them and people. Use the “Rule of Thumb” to make sure you are far enough away: Stretch your arm out away from your face and give bison a thumbs up! Now close one eye. Can you cover the bison with your thumb? If not, you’re too close!

Do not disturb

Quietly observe the bison in their home. What are they doing?

If your presence causes the bison to change its current behavior, leave the area and come back later. This may not be a good time.

Roadway courtesy

Bison use park roads to get from one place to another in the park, too. Since this is their home, remember that bison have the right of way!

Observe speed limits and watch for bison traffic. Sometimes traffic is heavy, and you might be in a bison traffic jam!

Never honk at, push, or tailgate bison.

Do you speak bison?

Well, probably not, but bison can communicate with us…through body language, that is!

Agitated or anxious bison will raise their tails up in a question mark. Other signs of agitation or disapproval are pawing the ground and lowering its head.

In bison culture, a head-on gaze can communicate a threat or just simply rude behavior, especially to dominant males.

If you see any of these behaviors, leave the area.