National Elk Refuge in Jackson — Live Webcam Online

Sanctuary for Giant Herds

The National Elk Refuge in Jackson is one of those rare places in the United States where wildlife remains virtually untouched by civilization. A webcam installed at the National Museum of Wildlife Art broadcasts a panoramic view of the plains in real time. From here, you can see herds of elk moving across the open spaces, with the snow-capped peaks of the Teton Mountains shrouded in clouds on the horizon. This is more than just a live stream — it's a window into an ecosystem that has been forming for thousands of years.

History: Saving Winter Pastures

In the early 20th century, the situation with elk in the Jackson Hole area became critical. The expansion of settlements and cattle grazing pushed the animals off their traditional winter pastures. In 1912, the U.S. Congress established the refuge specifically to protect the habitat of one of the largest elk herds on the planet. Since then, this territory has become an example of how targeted conservation efforts can restore a population.

Why Elk Chose This Place

In winter, the high-altitude pastures of Wyoming are covered with a meter-thick layer of snow, making the food supply inaccessible. Elk instinctively descend into valleys where there is less snow and more open space. The refuge covers 24,700 acres (approximately 10,000 hectares) — a vast territory of grassy plains where animals find food and relative safety. The Jackson herd numbers around 11,000 elk, with an average of 7,500 wintering in the refuge.

Wildlife: Not Just Elk

Although the refuge is named after elk, its ecosystem is far richer. 48 species of mammals inhabit this area — from bison and wolves to bighorn sheep and pronghorn antelope. Coyotes roam the plains searching for rodents, while birds of prey soar overhead. Among the avian species are bald eagles, golden eagles, and trumpeter swans. In spring and fall, the refuge becomes an important stopover on the migration route of numerous species.

Geographic Location and Adjacent Territories

The refuge is located directly at the boundary of the town of Jackson, making it a unique natural area in close proximity to a populated area. To the east, it borders the Bridger-Teton National Forest, and to the north — Grand Teton National Park. This connection creates an extensive ecological corridor through which animals freely move between protected areas. The Teton Mountains in the background are not merely scenery — they are part of a single, unified ecosystem.

How to Get to the Refuge from Jackson

You can reach the National Elk Refuge from downtown Jackson in just a few minutes. It is located just 1 mile from Town Square at 675 E Broadway Ave. Head north on Highway 89/191/26, then turn left onto East Broadway Avenue and follow the signs. In winter, the roads are well-maintained, although restrictions may apply during heavy snowstorms.

Best Time for Viewing

The peak concentration of elk in the refuge occurs during the winter months — from December through April. This is when the webcam captures the most impressive scene: thousands of animals blanket the snow-covered plains, creating one of the most spectacular natural displays in North America. In summer, most elk migrate to high-altitude pastures, and the refuge empties out, though bison and other animals remain here year-round.

What You Can See on the Camera

The live camera is mounted at the National Museum of Wildlife Art and faces southeast, offering a view of the refuge plains. In the center of the foreground stands a distinctive lone tree that serves as a landmark for observers. In the background, gentle hills and mountain peaks are often shrouded in clouds and fog. The hillsides are dotted with patches of forest and scattered trees. On the right side of the horizon, small structures and roads are visible, marking the boundary of the protected area. During winter months, an elk herd can be seen on the plain, slowly moving across the snowy surface in search of food.