Elk Viewing

Elk tours are offered seasonally to give our guests the opportunity to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
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​The 2018 elk viewing  tour schedule is as follows:
​    * March 3, 10,17 and 24 -- 4 p.m.
    * April 7, 14 -- 4:30 p.m.
​    * April 21, 28 -- 5 p.m.
    * May 5, 12, 19 -- 5 p.m.
    * August 25 -- 6 p.m.
​    * September 7, 8, 14, 15 -- 6 p.m.
​    * September 21, 22, 28, 29 -- 5 p.m.
    * October 6 -- 5 p.m.
​    * October 13, 20, 27 -- 4 p.m.

Virginia's elk population was restored after public interest in undertaking an elk restoration program in the state was expressed to the Virginia Board of Game and Inland Fisheries. In 2010, planning for the reintroduction of the elk into Buchanan County, Va., started after an almost 100-year absence. Elk were historically found throughout eastern North America, including Virginia. However, factors such as habitat loss and unregulated hunting caused elk to become virtually extinct within eastern North America by the late 1800s. Attempts at elk restoration in eastern states during the early to mid-1900s often failed due to a lack of suitable habitat and knowledge of elk ecology.

In Virginia, working with the coal and gas industries on reclaimed surface sites in 2012, the population was reintroduced and has thrived. Elk hunting is currently prohibited. Reservations are required for the tours which are offered seasonally on the dates listed above. Meet at the campground office for the bus tours of the habitat area. Plan on about two hours for the tour and travel to the habitat site. Fee is $30 for adults and $15 for children ages 12 and younger, which includes a light boxed supper. Call the campground at 276-244-1111 to confirm the time you need to be at the campground office to meet the bus for your tour.​

​Sunrise and sunset are the best times to see the elk. One of the habitat feeding plots is located just over the mountain from our location. Bring your binoculars and you will likely catch a glimpse of them. Persons taking part in the elk tours are reminded that bus seating is limited so reservations in advance are required. All tours are on Saturday, unless otherwise noted. Attendees are requested to wear dark clothing, no perfumes or colognes. Photographers are asked not to use a flash when taking photos so as not to disturb the elk.

Call the campground to schedule your viewing at 276-244-1111.