9:00am to Sunset
Tule Elk State Natural Reserve
This park unit is partially open. Please take the time to read the information contained on this webpage to find out what is open and closed, and what COVID-19 guidelines are in place. - (May 27, 2021)
What is open now?
- Trails, beaches and day use areas.
- Parking may be limited.
What is currently closed?
- Campgrounds
- Visitor Centers
- Picnic Areas
- Congregate and high touch areas
COVID-19 Guidelines - (June 21, 2021)
Recreate Responsibly
Protect yourself, family, friends and your community by following these prevention measures:
Recreate Responsibly
Protect yourself, family, friends and your community by following these prevention measures:
- Know Before You Go – Prior to leaving home, check the status of the park unit you want to visit to find out what restrictions and guidelines are in place. Have a back-up plan in case your destination is crowded. Stay home if you are sick
- Plan Ahead – Some restrooms will be temporarily closed to keep up with cleaning schedules. Bring soap/hand sanitizer.
- Play It Safe – Find out what precautions you should take when exploring the outdoors, especially if this is your first time visiting the State Park System. Learn more at parks.ca.gov/SafetyTips.
-
Be COVID-19 Safe– State Parks continues to follow guidance provided by the California Department of Public Health:
- Fully Vaccinated Persons: Face coverings are not required in public outdoor settings.For indoor public settings, such as museums and visitor centers, all vaccinated individuals are to self-attest that they are in compliance prior to entry.
- Unvaccinated Persons: Face coverings are required in indoor public settings such as museums and visitor centers.
- Leave No Trace – Leave areas better than how you found them by staying on designated trails and packing out all trash. Do not disturb wildlife or plants.
Phone Number
(661) 764-6881
Park Hours
Dogs Allowed?
Yes
Dogs allowed in the visitor center area. Prefer dogs not allowed on the reserve during the Auto Safari tours, even if only staying in the vehicle.
Driving Directions to Tule Elk SNR
The reserve is north of Gorman, south of Buttonwillow. From north- or southbound I-5, take the Stockdale Highway exit and go west to Morris Av. Turn left; continue and road becomes Station Rd after a right-only turn. Park entrance is on the left.Online reservations are not available for this park.
Upcoming Park Events
No events scheduled at this moment.
DAY-USE ACTIVITIES & FACILITIES
Picnic Areas
Env. Learning/Visitor Center
Exhibits and Programs
Guided Tours
Interpretive Exhibits
Nature & Wildlife Viewing
Geocaching
Picnic Areas
Env. Learning/Visitor Center
Exhibits and Programs
Guided Tours
Interpretive Exhibits
Nature & Wildlife Viewing
Geocaching
OTHER FACILITIES & VISITOR INFORMATION
Parking
Restrooms
Drinking Water Available
Parking
Restrooms
Drinking Water Available
The Tule Elk State Natural Reserve protects a small herd of tule elk, once in danger of extinction. In the 1800s, the vast herds of tule elk were greatly reduced in number by hunting and loss of habitat.
In 1874, cattleman Henry Miller began efforts to save them. At that time few tule elk remained. In 1932, the herd was given permanent protection on the land now known as the Tule Elk State Natural Reserve.
Elk from the reserve have been successfully transplanted to other areas in California. Today approximately 5,700 tule elk are again roaming the foothills and grasslands of California.
The tule elk are most active from late summer through early autumn. Visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars for better viewing.
The park has a picnic area that offers an excellent opportunity to observe birds of the San Joaquin Valley. Interpretive exhibits may be viewed to the south and east of the comfort station.
Tule Elk YouTube Video
Location/Directions
The reserve is 20 miles west of Bakersfield off of Stockdale Highway west of I-5, in the vicinity of Buttonwillow.
Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; Extreme heat during summer months, cold foggy winter weather.
layered clothing is recommended.