The visitor center at Fort Laramie is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM from Memorial Day to Labor Day, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM from May 1 to Memorial Day and Labor Day to September 30, and 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM from October 1 to April 30. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
Admission to Fort Laramie National Historic Site is free, with no entrance fees since January 1, 2015.
From Cheyenne, take I-25 North to Exit 92, then US Highway 26 East, and turn right on State Route 160. Immerse yourself in the historic grandeur of the American West.
Plentiful free parking near the main grounds, including ADA parking closer to the site. No overnight parking. Suitable for cars, smaller RVs, and motorcycles. No parking fees.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Fort Laramie National Historic Site, situated at the confluence of the Laramie and North Platte rivers, is a verdant oasis that encapsulates the sweeping narrative of America’s westward expansion. Established in 1834 as a private fur trading post by Robert Campbell and William Sublette, this historic site evolved into the largest and most renowned military post on the Northern Plains before its abandonment in 1890.
The landscape here is a tapestry of rolling hills, lush meadows, and the gentle flow of the rivers, creating a serene backdrop for the site’s rich history. As you wander through the grounds, you can almost hear the whispers of the past – the bustling trade of buffalo robes for manufactured goods, the passage of tens of thousands of emigrants bound for Oregon, California, and Utah, and the strategic military operations during the Great Sioux War.
The site is alive with the sounds of wildlife, from the chirping of meadowlarks to the occasional howl of a coyote. Seasonal changes paint the landscape in vibrant hues – the blooming of wildflowers in spring, the golden hues of autumn, and the snowy silence of winter.
While there are no hiking trails in the traditional sense, visitors can explore the historic buildings, including the adobe-walled Fort John and the later military structures. The area is also home to a variety of flora, including cottonwood trees and prairie grasses.
Special events bring this historic site to life, such as reenactments of frontier life and lectures by park rangers. For those seeking a deeper immersion, local outfitters offer guided tours that delve into the intricate history and cultural significance of the area. Nearby, the town of Fort Laramie itself provides a charming array of artisan shops and local eateries, making it an ideal base for exploring this pivotal piece of American history.
- Area (mi²)
- 1.3
- Annual visitors
- 44 000
- Established year
- 1834
Top 3 Facts about Fort Laramie National Historic Site
The site contains a 536-acre historic district with 36 significant physical remains, including 13 standing buildings, 11 standing ruins, and several buildings with only foundations remaining.
Along the North Platte and Laramie rivers, a diverse wildlife thrives. Bald eagles winter on the riverbanks, while waterfowl and various bird species inhabit the meadows and bottomlands. Deer, coyotes, and rabbits roam the open grasslands, where native and exotic grasses grow alongside stands of cottonwood, ash, and willow. Beavers and muskrats inhabit the rivers, which support several game and non-game fish species. This vibrant ecosystem is a testament to the rich natural heritage of the region.
Along the Laramie and North Platte rivers, terrace gravel deposits, up to 20 feet thick, reveal a landscape shaped by Quaternary stream erosion. The rivers flow through a terrain where finer grained sediments and gravel are derived from weathered Oligocene and Miocene rocks, creating a rich geological tapestry.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Night Sky & Astronomy
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a summer visit to coincide with cannon exhibitions and living history events. Allow a few hours to explore; start at the visitor center, then wander the grounds and trails. Wear comfortable shoes for uneven terrain and pack meals, as options are limited.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for unpredictable semi-arid weather; warm days, cold nights, and potential high winds. Bring waterproof gear, sturdy shoes, and sun protection. For longer stays, include camping gear and check road conditions before heading out.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the natural habitat by keeping pets under control, avoiding disturbance of wildlife, and staying on designated trails to preserve the unique flora and fauna of the area. Be mindful of seasonal changes and potential flooding near the rivers. Leave no trace behind.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, keep a safe distance from wildlife and water, and check weather conditions. Follow park signs and rules. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 307-837-2221. Be cautious on ledges and near hot springs if present.
Seasons
In spring, from April to May, temperatures rise to the 60s and 70s, with vibrant foliage and blooming wildflowers. Daily living history programs begin on Memorial Day Weekend, featuring historic weapons demonstrations and interactive period roles. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, the mild weather makes it perfect for hikes and exploring historic grounds.
Experience summer’s warm temperatures (70s-90s°F) and clear skies from May to Labor Day. Enjoy the annual Old Fashioned Fourth of July celebration, complete with historic reenactments and festivities. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs.
Experience the historic charm amidst autumn’s mild temperatures (40s-60s°F) and crisp air. Witness historic weapons demonstrations, including the Mountain Howitzer cannon, from Memorial Day to fall. A must-visit during this season for its vibrant living history programs.[-]
Experience winter’s stark beauty from December to February, with temperatures ranging from 12°F to 50°F. Crisp days and potential hurricane-strength winds make for a dramatic, immersive visit, but check road conditions before traveling.[MAX CHARACTER COUNT: 125]
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Fort Laramie National Historic Site has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the historic site is Cheyenne, Wyoming, which is approximately 100 miles south. Another nearby city is Scottsbluff, Nebraska, about 55 miles east.
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Dogs are allowed on the grounds and trails as long as they are on a leash no longer than six feet, but they are not permitted inside the buildings. You can leave your dog in your car while visiting the visitor center, but be cautious in warmer months. There are pet watering stations available on the grounds.
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Yes, parking is free. There is plentiful free parking available for all types of vehicles, including campers, motorhomes, and trailers.
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Fort Laramie was established in 1834 as a fur trading post by Robert Campbell and William Sublette, later becoming a key stop for westward-bound emigrants in the 1840s. In 1849, the U.S. Army purchased the fort and it served as a military post for 41 years, playing a significant role in the American Civil War and Red Cloud’s War from 1866 to 1868. The fort was also a crucial location during the Great Sioux War in 1876 and was finally abandoned in 1890.