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
Elk Viewing
Education & Conservation
Elk Country Visitor Center
Events & Programs
Support
Welcome to Elk Country!
Our Mission & Commitment
KECA’s mission 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.
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.
Attend an Event or Fundraiser
View All Events
OCT
03
Master Gardeners Plant & Forgeables Walk – Fall
Elk Country Visitor Center
Come explore the plant life at your feet with the Elk County Master Gardeners at the Elk County Visitor Center. Learn about plants that can feed, s...
OCT
04
Make & Take: Paracord Craft
Elk Country Visitor Center
Come and learn the many ways that paracord can be used in a survival situation. While exploring it's many uses we will craft a keychain or bracelet...
OCT
04
Elk Explanations
Elk Country Visitor Center
New to learning about elk? Have burning questions about elk? Wondering how elk are managed? Perhaps you have a question on their favorite foods or ...
OCT
10
How to Plant Native Wildflower Plots at Home
Elk Country Visitor Center
Join fall intern, Taylor, in identifying some of Pennsylvania’s native wildflowers and discover which plants can thrive in a home pollinator plot. ...
OCT
11
Pioneer Day!
Elk Country Visitor Center
Our staff will be making apple cider the old-fashioned way and will welcome guests of all ages to lend a hand! We will also be providing free sampl...
OCT
11
Game Birds of Pennsylvania
Elk Country Visitor Center
Are you interested in bird hunting in Pennsylvania? Well Andrew, one of our fall interns, will give you the scoop on dove, turkey, woodcock, pheasa...