Public Bison Tours

Nachusa Grasslands Prairie and Bison Public Tours

On the public bison tours, you will ride through some of the state’s highest quality prairie, the result of countless hours of stewardship efforts. Bison grazing and wallows create micro-habitats that help support prairie diversity at Nachusa.

After your tour, we invite you to partner with us as advocates for nature in your community, as there are many natural places that are not yet managed. Spread the word, volunteer, or donate to places like Nachusa that protect and restore habitat. Together we can help natural areas thrive!

2025 Tours
The public bison tours have concluded for the 2025 season. They will resume in May 2026.

Viewing Nachusa’s bison is not guaranteed, as the herd cannot always be seen from the lanes.

How can I attend?
By reservations ONLY. Signups will be posted at 7 a.m. on the Sunday before the tours. The signups fill quickly. There is no wait list.

Tour waivers
Our digital waivers must also be signed before you can participate:

Tour waiver link
TROUBLE SIGNING? The signature service we use only allows one signature per email address. If two people share an email, only one of them will be able to complete the waiver using that address. If you struggle with completing a digital waiver, PRINT this paper copy for each person attending and give to your tour leader.

Mobility issues
You must able to climb the steps you see in the photo above, or be able to step inside the truck.

Individuals with limited mobility may choose to remain in the vehicle while the rest of the group is out walking,

What time do we meet?
Meet at 1:15 pm, as tours will begin promptly at 1:30 pm.

Tours last about two hours, from 1:30–3:30 pm

Where do we meet?
Nachusa Grasslands Visitor Center
2075 Lowden Road
Franklin Grove, IL 61031

Can children attend?
Children are welcome if their adults can guarantee:

they remain safely seated in the truck bed for the duration
their participation will not disrupt the experience for other guests

Can groups sign up?
Yes, groups may sign up if there is enough space available.

What to bring
You may be sitting on a bench in the full sun during the tour. Depending on time and interest, tours may include: Visitor Center orientation, walking short distances off trail over uneven ground, visiting the bison corral, and stopping at the new seed processing/science facility. Bring:

sturdy shoes and a hat. Wear long pants. Tour leaders may also ask anyone not suitably dressed to stay by the vehicle.
a water bottle, as the unshaded prairie can be very hot. A hand pump is available at the Visitor Center.
bug repellent and sunscreen
rain gear if storms are in the forecast

Tour cancellations

Do not call.
Tours may be cancelled due to inclement weather or the unavailability of volunteer leaders.
Please check your email for cancellation updates prior to arriving at Nachusa.

How can I cancel my reservation?

Send an email via SignUpGenius using the Contact button or replying to your confirmation or reminder email.
If you feel unwell, for any reason, please cancel your attendance.

Please do not call or email Nachusa Grasslands or Friends of Nachusa Grasslands to request to be added to a tour, as we do not have the human resources to answer your inquiries.

The button below will become active at 7 am on the Sunday before the scheduled tour.

Sign up ONLY IF YOU KNOW YOU CAN ATTEND.

Please respect our time and resources. Only sign up if you are confident you can attend, as last-minute cancellations significantly impact our ability to offer these free tours.

Tour waiver required

Tour Signup — Sign Waiver first