By Natalie Derrickson

While a certain Montana-based TV show may have partly inspired renewed interest in a slower lifestyle and a deeper connection with nature, a visit to the Treasure State isn’t the only way to reconnect with the great outdoors. 

Wild Winds Buffalo Preserve is a special place, a haven, for the majestic American Bison, which are linked to Indiana’s history yet were largely eradicated for over 100 years. Home to over 200 bison that roam the 400-acre preserve, Wild Winds offers visitors a unique experience across the grounds and among the herd, and guides provide valuable conservation and stewardship education along the way.

“Wild Winds Buffalo Preserve in Fremont gives visitors a chance to experience something that feels more like the American prairie than northern Indiana,” said Janet Hartsuff, Steuben County Tourism Bureau communications manager. “The open-air vehicle tour is just outstanding. The guides are so knowledgeable, and you can get surprisingly close to the herd.”

During the open-air tour, guests travel through the preserve and follow the bison across seven fields. In the spring, calves are born and then stay with their mothers for the next year. 

Guided tours are offered Wednesday through Sunday during the summer and fall, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with the preserve closing at 4 p.m. Tickets can be purchased on-site for $14 for adults and $9 for children ages 3 to 10. Children under 2 are free. 

Guests are invited to visit the Wild Winds gift shop, which is open from May through October. There, guests can shop for handcrafted pottery, stunning jewelry, and even fresh-frozen buffalo meat. If your first visit has you hooked, book a stay at their bed-and-breakfast, featuring bison blankets and impressive log-hewn beds, to make your visit truly magical. 

Wild Winds Buffalo Preserve

6975 N. Ray Rd., Fremont, IN 46737

Contact information, events, and news are best found on their Facebook page.