Photo: Tatanka Bison Ranch
Experience the Spirit of the American Frontier at Tatanka Bison Ranch Safari in South Carolina
York, S.C., —Nestled on a breathtaking 215-acre property in York County, South Carolina, the Tatanka Bison Ranch Safari invites you to explore the wild beauty of American bison and experience firsthand the unity, strength, and traditions they represent. Founded by Fred Ilse, a retired businessman from South Africa, the ranch has quickly grown from abandoned land to a thriving bison sanctuary. Today, with over 40 bison strong, Tatanka offers a unique mix of preservation, education, and agritourism, bringing the history of our national mammal back to life in the Carolinas.
From Dream to Reality: A Commitment to Bison Preservation
Fred’s journey began in 2015, inspired by a vision to preserve the spirit of the American bison in South Carolina. With limited farming experience but a lifetime of passion, he transformed the land to welcome 18 bison, which has since grown into a healthy, thriving herd. “Bison are spiritual animals with a matriarchal society, much like elephants,” he says. “They embody strength, resilience, and unity—qualities that have helped them survive for tens of thousands of years.”
Safari Tours: An Adventure for Everyone
Tatanka Bison Ranch offers a variety of immersive, safari-style tours that take visitors on an unforgettable journey:
- Red Dog Tour – Ride in style in a covered 1994 Japanese fire truck with cushioned seating. This tour, suitable for families, can accommodate up to nine adults and takes you across the ranch for a close-up view of the majestic bison.
- Bison Buggy Wagon Tour – Perfect for larger groups, this covered wagon seats up to 20 guests, providing an accessible, educational outing for families, friends, or colleagues.
- 4×4 UTV Safari Tour – This rugged 4-wheel-drive adventure seats up to four adults and offers a personal tour of the scenic landscape, bison handling facilities, and up-close encounters with the herd.
Each tour provides a unique way to observe and learn about these powerful animals and their historical significance to America. These two-hour tours educate visitors on the matriarchal nature of bison herds, their holistic raising methods, and the sustainable practices that help protect them.
Taste the Difference: Premium, Grass-Fed Bison Meat
Tatanka Bison Ranch also proudly offers premium bison meat, 100% grass-fed, dry-aged, USDA-inspected, and flash-frozen for optimum quality. As a member of the National Bison Association, Tatanka follows strict ethical and humane standards, ensuring the finest quality cuts without hormones, antibiotics, or grain by-products. Here’s a glimpse of their offerings:
- Ground Bison, Sausages, and Blends: Including Bison Chorizo and NorthStar Bison Ground Blends, made with nutrient-rich organ meats.
- Ribs, Brisket, and Roasts: Indulge in hearty cuts perfect for traditional BBQ lovers.
- Premium Steaks: From Bison NY Strip to Filet Mignon, each steak is cut thick for a superior dining experience.
- Bones & Organs: Perfect for broths and specialty recipes, including Bison Knuckle and Marrow Bones.
Tatanka’s bison meat is available at the ranch (by appointment) or every Saturday at the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market.
Bison in South Carolina
Bison were once native to South Carolina, although they disappeared from the region long before the American Revolution. Historically, bison (often called American buffalo) roamed much of North America, including the eastern United States, which extended into parts of the Carolinas.
In the 18th century, however, bison populations in the East dwindled due to habitat loss from European settlement and overhunting. By the early 1700s, wild bison had mostly vanished from the eastern seaboard, with the last recorded sightings in the Carolinas occurring around the mid-1700s. Today, bison are largely associated with the Great Plains, but their historical range serves as a reminder of the diversity of wildlife that once existed throughout the U.S., including South Carolina.
Efforts like those at Tatanka Bison Ranch in South Carolina help reconnect people with this important part of the state’s natural heritage, albeit in a managed setting rather than a wild one.
Book Your Bison Visit
Whether you’re a history buff, wildlife enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique family outing, Tatanka Bison Ranch Safari offers an experience like no other. Learn about the heritage of America’s national mammal while supporting sustainable and humane farming practices. Book your tour today and taste the difference in grass-fed, ethically raised bison meat!
Contact Tatanka Bison Ranch
Contact information
Facebook: Tatanka Bison Ranch
Instagram: Tatankabison
Phone: (704) 860 2130
Email: fred@tatankabison.com
Address: 8088 Kays Drive, York, SC 29745
Text or email to schedule your tour or inquire about the latest price list for premium meat products.
“Preservation, Education, and Agritourism”
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