Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo | Tupelo

Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo is a wildlife preserve and animal exhibition facility located in Tupelo, Mississippi, USA.

It houses a variety of North American animals, with a focus on bison.

Visual Characteristics

The park covers approximately 210 acres. The terrain includes open pastures for grazing animals, wooded areas, and constructed enclosures. The primary structures are visitor centers, animal holding pens, and service buildings constructed from wood and concrete. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills and scattered trees.

Location & Access Logistics

The park is situated at 2275 North Coley Road, Tupelo, Mississippi. It is approximately 5 miles north of downtown Tupelo. Access is via North Coley Road, which connects to State Route 145 (West Main Street). Ample parking is available on-site, free of charge. Public transport options to the park are limited; the Tupelo Transit System does not have a direct route serving the facility.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo was established in 1994. Its purpose is to provide a sanctuary for rescued and orphaned bison and other North American wildlife, as well as to educate the public. The land is part of the Black Belt region of Mississippi, characterized by fertile soil and a history of agricultural use.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can participate in guided tram tours through the bison pasture. Feeding opportunities for select animals are available during tours. The park also features a petting zoo area with domestic farm animals. Walking paths are present throughout the developed areas of the park.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available in the main visitor center. Shaded areas are provided by trees and covered picnic shelters. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available within the park. Limited food and beverage options are sold at the park's gift shop and concession stand.

Best Time to Visit

The park is open year-round. For optimal viewing of bison activity, early morning or late afternoon is recommended. Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) offer the most temperate weather conditions. Summer months can be hot and humid.

Facts & Legends

The park is home to the largest herd of bison in Mississippi. One of the park's notable residents was "Big Tex," a bull bison that weighed over 2,000 pounds.

Nearby Landmarks

• Elvis Presley Birthplace Museum (3.5km Southwest)
• Tupelo Automobile Museum (4.2km Southwest)
• Tupelo Furniture Market (4.8km West)
• BancorpSouth Arena (4.5km Southwest)