Conserving & Enhancing Pennsylvania's Elk Country for Future Generations

Elk Viewing

Education & Conservation

Elk Country Visitor Center

Events & Programs

Support

VISITOR NOTICE: UPDATED GATE & TRAIL HOURS

As the days get shorter and daylight hours change, please be aware of our updated gate and trail hours at the Elk Country Visitor Center.
Main Gate Opens: 7:30 AM
Visitor Center Opens: 8:00 AM
Trails Close at Dusk: Currently between approximately 7:00–7:30 PM
Visitor Center Closes: DUSK

Please keep in mind that dusk will continue to get earlier as we move through the fall, so trail closing times will vary with available daylight.
For the safety of our visitors and wildlife, we ask that everyone please plan ahead and be off the trails by dusk.

Thank you for your cooperation, and we look forward to welcoming you to Elk Country!

Welcome to Elk Country!

Welcome to the Pennsylvania Wilds and the home of the Keystone Elk Country Alliance (KECA). We are a Pennsylvania-based 501(c)(3) non-profit wildlife conservation organization that operates/manages the Elk Country Visitor Center and the surrounding property in Benezette, Pennsylvania, to benefit the future of Elk Country and the enjoyment of hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Conserving & Enhancing Pennsylvania’s Elk Country for Future Generations.

Our Mission & Commitment

KECA’s mission, Conserving & Enhancing Pennsylvania’s Elk Country for Future Generations, is accomplished through conservation education, habitat enhancement, and permanent land protection. Our resources are focused on improving and protecting hundreds of acres surrounding the Elk Country Visitors Center, as well as supporting conservation projects on both public and private lands throughout Elk Country. Our commitment is, first and always, to Elk Country.

As a membership-based, volunteer-driven organization, KECA relies on the passion and dedication of volunteers who help fulfill our mission every day. We invite you to visit, learn, and connect with this extraordinary place—whether in person at the Elk Country Visitors Center or through our web-based distance learning programs.

Learn More About Us

Visit The Elk Country Visitor Center

Thousands of visitors come to the Elk Country Visitor Center yearly to see the elk herd, and learn about elk and other wildlife, conservation practices, habitat enhancement and more. Not only will you get a chance to appreciate Elk in their natural habitat, but you will depart inspired by the dedication of people who act as daily stewards of the natural habitat and inhabitants of the Pennsylvania Wilds.

While at the Center, be sure to visit our gift shop, which features a variety of local artisan products, unique gifts, and custom clothing. All of our products are proudly made in the USA.

Elk Country Visitor Center

KECA Upcoming Events

Throughout the year, the Keystone Elk Country Alliance (KECA) hosts a wide variety of events across Pennsylvania that connect people to Elk Country while supporting our mission to conserve, enhance, and promote Pennsylvania’s elk herd and the habitats they depend upon. From volunteer-led Conservation Banquets and community fundraisers to educational programs, outdoor adventures, wildlife tours, youth activities, conservation workshops, and special seasonal events, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

KECA’s events provide unique opportunities to experience Pennsylvania’s elk country, learn about wildlife conservation, and connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Many events feature local traditions, family-friendly activities, raffles, auctions, exclusive experiences, and limited-edition merchandise, all while helping fund important conservation, education, and habitat enhancement projects.

Whether you attend a banquet, participate in an educational program, join a guided adventure, or take part in a community celebration, your involvement directly supports the future of Pennsylvania’s Elk Country.

Conserving & Enhancing Pennsylvania’s Elk Country for Future Generations.

Elk Country Visitor Center

Everyone is thrilled when they see huge bull elk with their giant antlers. During this popular program learn many amazing facts about our elk’s spe...

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