Ponca Elk Education Center

Elk are one of the largest members of the deer family in North America and many of us associate this animal with western states. However, the eastern elk was a native of the Natural State. Unfortunately, this subspecies disappeared from our state after 1840 and for almost one hundred years, a bugling elk could not be heard throughout the hills of Arkansas. Between 1981 and 1985, elk were re-introduced to the Buffalo River area, and have become one of Arkansas’ most successful re-establishment programs.

Don't miss the opportunity to see elk in their natural habitat along Arkansas Highways 43 and 21 in Boxley Valley. You'll have greater success at dawn and dusk when the elk frequent the grassy fields along the highways. Be alert! It is common for elk to cross highways.