Tule Elk State Natural Reserve protects a small herd of tule elk, once in danger of extinction. In the 1800's, the vast herds of tule elk were greatly reduced in number by hunting and loss of habitat. 

In 1874 cattleman Henry Miller began efforts to save them.  At that time few elk remained. In 1932, the herd was given permanent protection on the land now known as Tule Elk State Natural Reserve. 

Elk from the reserve have been successfully transplanted to other areas in California.  Today nearly 4000 tule elk are again free roaming the foothills and grasslands of California.