Big Bone Lick State Historic Site
Discover Ice Age giants, see live bison, and explore the birthplace of American paleontology at this historic Kentucky site.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Bison are most active
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site
Best Time
Bison are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Ice Age giants, see live bison, and explore the birthplace of American paleontology at this historic Kentucky site.
"A truly unique destination that blends natural beauty, fascinating history, and family-friendly activities."
🎯 Early Bird Bison Watch
See bison best in the morning! They love cooler temps. :sunriseovermountains:
🚶♀️ Easy Trails for All
Enjoy accessible paved paths and gentle hikes. Great for families and strollers! :walking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bison Herd Viewing
Pastures near the museum and campground
Witness majestic bison roaming freely in their natural habitat. A truly awe-inspiring sight!
Paleontology Museum
Interpretive Center
Discover fossils of Ice Age giants like mammoths and mastodons, the reason for the site's fame.
Historic Salt Lick Site
Various points throughout the park
Explore the natural salt licks that attracted prehistoric animals, shaping the area's unique history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Bison Viewing
Uncover Prehistoric Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Early Bird Bison Watch
See bison best in the morning! They love cooler temps. :sunriseovermountains:
🚶♀️ Easy Trails for All
Enjoy accessible paved paths and gentle hikes. Great for families and strollers! :walking:
👻 Haunted History
Explore the legend of the haunted Methodist Church. Spooky vibes await! :ghost:
🏕️ Campground Comfort
Spacious, clean sites with amenities. Perfect for a nature escape! :tent:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Early Bird Bison Watch
See bison best in the morning! They love cooler temps. :sunriseovermountains:
🚶♀️ Easy Trails for All
Enjoy accessible paved paths and gentle hikes. Great for families and strollers! :walking:
👻 Haunted History
Explore the legend of the haunted Methodist Church. Spooky vibes await! :ghost:
🏕️ Campground Comfort
Spacious, clean sites with amenities. Perfect for a nature escape! :tent:
🦴 Fossil Fanatic Fun
Learn about Ice Age giants at the museum. Birthplace of American paleontology! :bone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Big Bone Lick State Historic Site for its unique blend of natural beauty, fascinating history, and family-friendly activities. The chance to see bison up close and explore the paleontological museum are consistent highlights. While some trails could be better marked, the overall experience is highly positive, with many recommending it for camping and day trips.
"It’s a short easy trail walk to see the bison. It’s better to go early morning before it gets hot. They are large and prefer cooler weather. We have been in several different months and have seen them many times. They come in to eat and are usually in the front pasture, they have been in the middle pasture which is walkable, around the fenced in area to the left side. Handicapped accessible pathway in back of gift shoppe shows mammoths and giant sloths."
Jason & Kristin VanDePitte
"Went on a good day, nice walking trail. Cute gift shop/museum. Seeing the bison so up close was awesome! They were really close to fence. Gotta love the hills and the woods. Also a site for camping, and a couple playgrounds for the kiddos."
Hannah Adkins
"We really enjoyed our stay at the campground! It is a beautiful location with great activities. We really enjoyed making hiking sticks, learning about the Atlatl, vising the museum/site, and hiking the trails. A huge thank you to the staff for putting on great events! The campground has access to trails, mini golf, and clean bathrooms. The sites were paved (but not very level) and roomy."
Teresa Gilin Meller
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site is located in Union, Kentucky. It's easily accessible by car, with clear signage from major roadways. Many visitors find it a convenient stop when traveling between Cincinnati and Louisville.
Yes, Big Bone Lick State Historic Site is located in Northern Kentucky, making it a relatively short drive from Cincinnati, Ohio. It's a popular day trip destination for those in the greater Cincinnati area.
The park is best explored by car to reach different areas. Once inside, walking and hiking trails are the primary way to experience the natural beauty and see the bison.
Public transportation options directly to Big Bone Lick State Historic Site are limited. It is primarily a destination best reached by private vehicle.
Absolutely! Many travelers find Big Bone Lick to be a worthwhile detour, offering a unique blend of history, nature, and wildlife viewing. It's a great place to stretch your legs and learn something new. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Big Bone Lick State Historic Site is generally free. However, some specific activities or amenities, like camping or mini-golf, may have associated fees.
The park grounds are typically open daily from dawn to dusk. The museum and visitor center have more specific hours, which can vary seasonally. It's always a good idea to check the official park website for the most up-to-date information.
No, advance ticket booking is not usually required for general park entry. However, if you plan to camp, it's highly recommended to reserve your campsite in advance, especially during peak seasons.
While there isn't a general admission fee, discounts are not typically advertised for the park itself. However, if you are visiting with a group or for specific events, it's worth inquiring with park staff.
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site is a state park and generally does not require an entrance fee, so EBT cards are not applicable for admission. However, if there are specific programs or events with fees, it's best to inquire directly with the park.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Big Bone Lick offers a variety of activities including viewing a live bison herd, exploring a paleontology museum, hiking trails, camping, mini-golf, and learning about the site's rich history.
Yes, Big Bone Lick is famous for its resident bison herd! Visitors can often see them grazing in the pastures, especially in the cooler parts of the day.
Yes, Big Bone Lick State Historic Site features several hiking trails, ranging from easy paved paths to more natural terrain. These trails offer opportunities to explore the park's natural beauty and historical significance.
Big Bone Lick is very family-friendly! It has a museum with interactive exhibits, playgrounds, and the exciting chance to see bison up close. Camping and mini-golf add to the fun.
Yes, there is an interpretive center and museum at Big Bone Lick State Historic Site. It houses fascinating exhibits on the area's prehistoric past, including fossils of mammoths and mastodons.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site does not have on-site restaurants. However, there are picnic areas available for visitors to enjoy their own meals. Nearby towns offer dining options.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy at the designated picnic areas within the park.
Yes, the nearby town of Union, Kentucky, and the greater Cincinnati area offer a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants.
The gift shop at Big Bone Lick may offer some small snacks or drinks, but it's not a primary food service. It's best to pack your own food or plan to eat in a nearby town.
Union, Kentucky, and the surrounding Northern Kentucky region offer a range of culinary experiences, including classic American fare, Southern comfort food, and various international cuisines.
📸 📸 Photography
The bison herd provides fantastic photo opportunities, especially during golden hour. The museum exhibits and the natural landscapes also offer great shots.
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout Big Bone Lick State Historic Site for personal use. Be mindful of any posted restrictions in specific areas.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, especially for capturing the bison. The soft light creates a beautiful atmosphere.
Drone usage policies can vary by state park. It's essential to check the official Big Bone Lick State Historic Site regulations or contact park management regarding drone photography.
The areas around the bison pastures offer excellent vantage points. The walking trails also provide scenic overlooks and opportunities to capture the park's natural beauty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider planning your visit for the cooler parts of the day to maximize bison viewing opportunities. The paved trails are also great for strollers, making it easier to navigate the park with little ones. The overall experience at Big Bone Lick is educational, adventurous, and designed to create lasting family memories.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and utilizing the picnic areas is a smart way to save money on dining. The main attractions, like viewing the bison and exploring the museum, are either free or have minimal costs. This makes Big Bone Lick a perfect spot for a day trip or an economical camping adventure without compromising on experience.
👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts
While the church itself may not always be accessible or on the main park map, the stories and atmosphere surrounding it contribute to the site's unique allure. Exploring these local legends can add a thrilling dimension to your trip, especially if you're interested in ghost stories and local folklore.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Paleontological Significance of Big Bone Lick
The site's name originates from the discovery of massive fossilized bones, believed to be from prehistoric megafauna like mammoths, mastodons, and giant ground sloths. These discoveries, dating back to the 18th century, were crucial in shaping our understanding of prehistoric life and extinction events. Early explorers and scientists, including Thomas Jefferson and William Clark, were fascinated by the site, recognizing its scientific importance. The mineral-rich salt licks acted as a natural attractant for these ancient animals, leading to their remains being preserved in the tar pits and soil.The ongoing research and discoveries at Big Bone Lick have provided invaluable insights into the Ice Age ecosystem and the evolutionary history of North American fauna. The site's historical significance is so profound that it has been recognized by the National Park Service and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Visitors can delve into this rich history at the park's interpretive center, which features detailed exhibits and actual fossils recovered from the area. It’s a place where you can literally walk in the footsteps of giants and connect with a deep, ancient past.The scientific legacy of Big Bone Lick continues to inspire and educate. It’s not just a park; it’s a living laboratory that offers a tangible link to a world long gone. The preservation efforts ensure that future generations can continue to learn from and be amazed by the incredible discoveries made here. The site serves as a powerful reminder of the dynamic nature of life on Earth and the importance of scientific exploration.
Encountering the Bison Herd
These magnificent animals, descendants of the ancient bison that once roamed this land, are a living testament to the park's natural heritage. Visitors can often spot them grazing peacefully in the designated pastures, particularly during the cooler hours of the early morning and late afternoon. It's recommended to visit during these times, as the bison are more active and visible when the weather is not too hot.Several walking trails provide excellent vantage points for viewing the bison. While maintaining a safe and respectful distance is crucial, the park's design allows for close-up observations that are both thrilling and educational. You might even witness a bison calf staying close to its mother, a heartwarming sight.
The park staff actively monitors the herd's health, conducting veterinary check-ups twice a year to ensure their well-being. This dedication to conservation ensures that the bison continue to thrive at Big Bone Lick, offering visitors a chance to connect with these iconic American animals.Observing the bison is more than just wildlife viewing; it's a chance to reflect on the park's history and the importance of preserving natural habitats. The presence of these animals connects the past, when their ancestors roamed freely, to the present, where they are carefully managed and protected. It’s a truly memorable part of any visit to Big Bone Lick.
Camping and Family Fun
Beyond the camping amenities, the park is packed with family-friendly activities. Children can enjoy playgrounds, and the entire family can engage in activities like making hiking sticks or learning about the Atlatl, a prehistoric spear-throwing tool.
The campground's accessibility to all park features, including trails and mini-golf, makes it a convenient base for exploration. Whether you're planning a short pit stop or a longer stay, camping at Big Bone Lick provides a unique opportunity to experience the park's natural beauty and historical significance in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit