Greenville County, South Carolina, August 16, 2025
News Summary
Big Balls Ranch, the sole bison ranch in Greenville County, South Carolina, has launched guided public tours. This ranch, home to over 35 bison and newly introduced buffalo, allows visitors to engage with these majestic animals and learn about their conservation history. Established by Brent and Robin after a visit to Yellowstone National Park, BBR highlights sustainable practices and offers educational experiences across its 100 acres. Tours provide insights into bison behavior and preservation, making this a unique opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts.
Greenville County, South Carolina Welcomes Bison Tours at Big Balls Ranch
Big Balls Ranch (BBR), the only bison ranch in Greenville County, South Carolina, is now offering guided tours to the public. Nestled in the scenic foothills near Table Rock and Jones Gap, this expansive ranch is home to over 35 bison and has become the largest bison ranch in the state since its establishment.
Founded by Brent and Robin, who initially aimed to create a family compound, their dream evolved into a bison ranch after a visit to Yellowstone National Park, where they were captivated by the sight of bison herds. Brent turned his curiosity into expertise, dedicating time to learning about bison care, leading to the establishment of BBR.
BBR’s herd includes nearly 30 bison, recently supplemented by five buffalo that joined last month, enriching the ranch’s diverse wildlife. The name “Big Balls Ranch” comes from the initials of Brent and Robin, as well as Robin’s creative hobby of using decorative balls in her home decor.
Public Tours and Educational Experiences
The introduction of public tours marks an exciting chapter for BBR, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the world of bison while helping the family manage the costs associated with their care. Brent, who guides the tours, possesses an impressive breadth of knowledge about bison, earning him a nickname akin to the ‘ChatGPT of bison.’
During these tours, guests can learn about the bison’s near extinction by the late 1800s due to excessive hunting. It was through the tireless efforts of private citizens that these majestic animals were preserved. In 2016, bison were officially designated as America’s national mammal.
Currently, there are approximately 400,000 bison on private ranches and about 31,000 managed on federal lands and national parks across the United States. Following educational presentations on bison behavior and lifestyle, tour participants can choose between a wagon tour accommodating up to 12 people or an air-conditioned UTV tour for up to 4 people.
Guests get the opportunity to see bison mothers with calves, understand the pregnancy cycle of around nine-and-a-half months, and observe the matriarchal society wherein an alpha female leads the herd. One standout member of the ranch, a male bison named “Big Boy,” weighs in at over a thousand pounds, showcasing the impressive size and power of these animals.
Ranch Features and Sustainable Practices
Spanning over 100 acres, Big Balls Ranch showcases breathtaking mountain views while employing sustainable grazing practices that allow the bison to roam and graze naturally. They occasionally supplement their diet with hay, ensuring high-quality care. The ranch’s bison meat is grass-fed, leading to superior flavor and quality that is available for purchase on-site.
Visitors can also explore a selection of merchandise, including T-shirts, and participate in tours that generally last about 90 minutes. Pricing for the tours starts at $100 for three guests, with additional costs of $25 for adults and $15 for children aged 3-12. Children under three can join for free.
While BBR does not currently host field trips, the ranch is open to arranging educational tours for groups. Online bookings are available, and participants receive a video reel of their tour as a memorable takeaway.
Conclusion
Big Balls Ranch stands as a significant contributor to wildlife conservation, education, and enjoyment in Greenville County. With the introduction of tours, visitors are encouraged to experience the beauty and majesty of bison up close.
FAQ
What are the tour hours at Big Balls Ranch?
The tours are conducted depending on the booking schedule. It is advisable to check the website for available time slots.
Is there an age limit for the tours?
No, all ages are welcome on the tours, and children under three can join free of charge.
How long is the duration of the tours?
Each tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, providing ample time for visitors to learn and observe the bison.
Are there any safety measures in place during the tours?
Yes, safety is a priority at BBR. The tours are guided, and visitors are instructed to maintain a safe distance from the bison, which are wild animals.
Key Features of Big Balls Ranch Tours
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Greenville County, South Carolina |
| Herd Size | Over 35 bison, including 5 new buffalo |
| Tour Types | Wagon tours (up to 12 people), UTV tours (up to 4 people) |
| Tour Duration | Approximately 90 minutes |
| Pricing | Starting at $100 for three people |
| Educational Focus | History, behavior, and preservation of bison |
| Merchandise | T-shirts and ranch-related items available |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Kidding Around Greenville: Big Balls Ranch
- WYFF4 News: Greenville Woman Gored by Bison
- Minnesota’s New Country: Bison Herd Welcomes Twins
- Business North Carolina: Where the Buffalo Still Roam
- Texas Monthly: The Mystery of Lightning Medicine Cloud
- Wikipedia: Bison
- Google Search: Bison Conservation
- Google Scholar: Bison Habitat
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bison
- Google News: Bison Tours
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
