Bison Farm Fun: Animal Encounters in Schellsburg

With a population of less than 400, Schellsburg, Pennsylvania is the definition of a small town. However, driving through this quaint, friendly town offers an inviting experience with a refreshing mix of both suburban and rural communities.

One of the best reasons to visit Schellsburg, Pennsylvania is the quaint farmlands, animal-friendly attractions, and high-quality farm products. If you’re planning a vacation nearby, we invite you to skip the overcrowded Disney parks and beach towns and discover a fulfilling vacation in Schellsburg.

Nature’s Gateway RV Park

Before you begin your vacation, you’ll need to find a nearby place to stay. Start your vacation off on the right foot and book your lodging with us! Our Campground and RV Park offer a myriad of convenient amenities as well as interactive games, picnic tables, and a swimming pool. More on that later!

One of the coolest animal encounters in Schellsburg is the bison; the beast of the open planes. Let’s look at the best Bison Farms in Pennsylvania and a spot where you can buy premium bison meat and unique bison-themed trinkets.

The Bison Corral

One of the coolest animal encounters in Schellsburg is the bison; the beast of the open planes. Let’s look at a Bison Farm in Schellsburg where you can buy premium bison meat and unique bison-themed trinkets. 

Location: Schellsburg, PA

Animals: Bison photo opportunities from a distance.

Offerings: Fresh bison meat, dream catchers, bison cards, cookie cutters, carvings, puzzles, Native American crafts, handmade incense, mugs, handmade knives, and more!

Cedarrow’s Bison Farm originated out of humble beginnings on a small property in Pennsylvania. They began raising bison as a hobby in December of 1988. To meet the growing demands of a modern “health-conscious” consumer, they expanded their farm to a second location, added more “hairy” members to their family, and began selling bison meat.

The staff at Bison Corral handle the animals as little as possible and the bison spend most of their time roaming happily on the grass. The Bison Corral gift shop is stocked with everything you could imagine for a perfect souvenir. Purchase a bison-shaped cookie cutter and make some homemade treats or complete a bison-themed puzzle as a way to remember your trip!

Remember, bison are powerful creatures and should be admired and respected from a distance. If you’d like to snap a few pictures, find a spot on the side of the road, outside of the bison’s fence.

Bison or Buffalo

To truly appreciate these powerful and stoic creatures, you need to know what separates them from other animals. Oftentimes, people use “buffalo” and “bison” interchangeably, but this isn’t correct and both animals have distinct physical differences.

Bison have bigger heads than buffalo as well as large humps at their shoulders. Bison also have beards and thick coats which they shed seasonally. Additionally, a water buffalo’s horns are long and crescent-shaped while a bison’s horns are typically sharp and shorter than the average buffalo’s.

Bison Meat for Sale in Pennsylvania

Many people prefer bison meat over beef due to its sweet and rich flavor. Bison is naturally flavorful and tender and can be prepared similarly to beef. Bison is a dense meat that tends to satisfy you more while eating less. 

Nutritionally, you also get more protein with fewer calories when you eat bison meat. You can’t go wrong with fresh bison meat, and The Bison Corral has some of the best offerings, prepared without drugs, hormones, or chemicals.

More Animal Encounters Near Schellsburg



Hospitality Springs Farms & Gardens

If you’ve ever tried to accomplish a downward dog while a baby goat balances on your back, then you know how cute goats can be. Due to their sweet temperament and quirky mannerisms, baby goats offer a delightful animal interaction, many times used in yoga sessions. 

To interact with some cute “kids” and buy some farm-fresh products, check out Hospitality Springs Farms & Gardens established and managed by the Nelson Phero family.

Location: Bedford, PA (15 minutes from Schellsburg)

Animals: Saanen dairy goats and Duroc pigs

Offerings: Farm fresh produce, animal products, seeds, books, clothes, soaps, hygiene products, lotions and candles.

Living Treasures Animal Park

Living Treasures Animal Park is located in the heart of the Laurel Highlands in Pennsylvania. The Park has over 300 animals and provides up close and interactive animal experiences. 

With a variety of exhibits, visitors can feed animals out of their palms, ride ponies, and view big cats behind a glass wall. Family-owned and operated, The Living Treasures Animal Park has two properties; one in Jones Mills and one in Moraine. 

Location: Jones Mills, PA (1 hour from Schellsburg)

Animals: Plenty to Enjoy!

Offerings: Up-close animal interactions, pony rides, animal feeding, and educational opportunities.

Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium

Sometimes a day at the zoo is just what you need! Spend the day at The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium and experience wild creatures like gorillas, penguins, tigers, cheetahs, meerkats, kangaroos, and Komodo dragons to name a few.

Location: Pittsburgh, PA (2 hours from Schellsburg)

Animals: Zoo & Aquarium Animals

Offerings: Exotic animal sightings, educational tours, VR theater, and souvenirs.

Stay at Nature’s Getaway RV Park & Campground

Complete your vacation in Schellsburg with a stay at Nature’s Getaway, conveniently located by the best outdoor recreation areas including Shawnee State Park and Coral Caverns.

We offer spacious RV and tent sites, picnic tables, high-speed Wi-fi, dog-friendly areas, and full hookups. Challenge your crew to a friendly game of pool, air hockey, or shuffleboard located on-site when you’re done swimming in our refreshing pool. 

If we haven’t convinced you yet, our little slice of paradise is worth a visit! Book your stay at Nature’s Getaway RV Park & Campground.