Fort Stanton Historic Site
Explore 88 historic buildings at Fort Stanton, a site with a rich past as a cavalry fort, TB hospital, and POW camp. Discover layers of history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Fort Stanton Historic Site
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 88 historic buildings at Fort Stanton, a site with a rich past as a cavalry fort, TB hospital, and POW camp. Discover layers of history.
"So much history at this one place! The varied uses through the years make a visit very enjoyable."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the grounds and buildings. :athletic_shoe:
Check for Events
Special events like the Trick-or-Treat Trail offer unique experiences. 📅
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 630 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Buildings
Throughout the site
Explore 88 structures, from barracks and officers' quarters to a hospital and gymnasium, showcasing architectural evolution.
Visitor Center & Museum
Main building
Discover exhibits, historical photos, and a 10-minute video detailing the fort's rich past.
Cemetery Hike
Trailhead near visitor center
A scenic 2.5-mile loop offering a peaceful walk and a glimpse into the lives of those who served.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Uncover Layers of History
Plan Your Exploration Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the grounds and buildings. :athletic_shoe:
Check for Events
Special events like the Trick-or-Treat Trail offer unique experiences. 📅
Veterans Visit Free
Active duty military and veterans receive free admission. :military_medal:
Bring Water & Snacks
Especially if you plan on doing the cemetery hike. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the grounds and buildings. :athletic_shoe:
Check for Events
Special events like the Trick-or-Treat Trail offer unique experiences. 📅
Veterans Visit Free
Active duty military and veterans receive free admission. :military_medal:
Bring Water & Snacks
Especially if you plan on doing the cemetery hike. :water_wave:
Ask Volunteers Questions
They are a wealth of information about the site's history. :speech_balloon:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Fort Stanton for its immense historical significance and the opportunity to explore numerous well-preserved buildings. The ongoing restoration efforts are appreciated, and the visitor center is noted for its informative exhibits. While some buildings show signs of disrepair, the overall experience is highly regarded as a valuable glimpse into the past. +1
"Fort Stanton offers an impressive experience. The visitor center provides ample parking, and the staff are exceptionally helpful, offering a wealth of information and a comprehensive guide map. The resources and accommodations surpass those of many other New Mexico forts.
A recommended highlight is the 11-minute film detailing the fort's history. This informative movie reveals that Fort Stanton served as New Mexico's first German internment camp during WWII. (It's worth noting, from personal family history, that another German internment camp existed near Carlsbad, NM.)
The fort itself is remarkably well-preserved, featuring brick and rock structures that remained in continuous use until the early 2000s. Three buildings particularly stand out for me: the new hospital, which houses equipment from the 1940s, and the Barracks/Dining hall, so authentically arranged that it transports visitors to the mid-to-late 1800s when the fort functioned as a military post. Finally, The Catholic Chapel is remarkably well-preserved, appearing as if a mass has just concluded. Overall, Fort Stanton Historic Park is an exceptionally worthwhile destination."
Terry Rostro
"So much history at this one place! The varied uses through the years make a visit very enjoyable. Many of the buildings have fallen into disrepair, but restoration is ongoing and the completed areas are great!"
David Sartain
"Excellent Museum and historic site. Several of the buildings you can walk through and see how the soldiers and occupants lived from the time period that this fort was occupied. You go through the hospital their barracks, the dining hall. There was a lot of incredible history here that I was not aware of please do yourself a favor and spend some time walking around the grounds reading the different signs on the grounds. It was a $7 fee to go through everything, if you are a veteran it is free. What a great place hidden away in the mountains, very very cool"
tom smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fort Stanton is located in Lincoln County, New Mexico. It's a bit off the beaten path, so using GPS is recommended. The site is accessible by car, and parking is available on-site.
While it's a hidden gem, follow signs for Fort Stanton. It's situated in the mountains, offering a scenic drive.
The exact route can vary, but it's generally accessed via highways leading into Lincoln County. Check your preferred navigation app before you go.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically $7 per person, with children under 16 often free. Veterans and active military personnel usually get in for free.
Yes, veterans and active military members often receive free admission. Check the official site for any other potential discounts.
While some areas might be visible from the outside, a ticket is generally required to access the museum, visitor center, and most buildings.
Hours can vary seasonally and for special events. It's best to check the official Fort Stanton Historic Site website or call ahead for the most current information.
For general visits, advance booking is usually not required. However, for special events like flashlight tours, tickets may be limited and should be purchased in advance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore 88 historic buildings, including barracks, officers' quarters, a hospital, and a gymnasium. There's also a visitor center with exhibits and a cemetery hike.
Yes, many of the buildings are open to walk through, allowing you to see how soldiers and occupants lived.
While not always formally scheduled, volunteers are often on-site and can provide valuable insights. Special flashlight tours are sometimes offered during events.
The site's history spans from 1855, encompassing its time as a U.S. Cavalry fort, a tuberculosis hospital, and a POW camp.
Restrooms are available on-site, and benches are scattered throughout the grounds for resting.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the site. It's a great place for historical and architectural photos.
The diverse architecture of the 88 buildings offers many picturesque opportunities. The cemetery hike also provides scenic views.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with the site management before flying a drone to ensure compliance with regulations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit