Spanning 82 acres in the Pecos River valley, Fort Lancaster State Historic Site commemorates the vestiges of one of several posts established in the 1850s that played an important role in westward expansion by providing escorts for mail carriers, wagon trains, and settlers on the San Antonio–El Paso Road en route to California. Today, visitors wander through ruins imagining the once-impressive establishment of over 30 permanent buildings—including a blacksmith shop, hospital, sutler’s store, and bakery—and enjoy the sights, sounds, and wildlife of West Texas.
Hours
Tuesday to Saturday
9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Tickets
Adult $5
Senior/Veteran/Teacher/First Responder $3
Child (6-17) $2
Child (5 and under) Free
Family (2 adults & 1 child) $8, each additional child $1
Programs
School Tours
Group Tours
See the site
Plan Your Visit
At Fort Lancaster State Historic Site, visitors can tour the remnants of a 19th-century military fort that at one time had over 30 structures.
Fort Lancaster History
After the Mexican War (1846-1848), the U.S. Army was charged with the defense of settlements and with the protection of travelers through Western Texas.
Support the Fort Lancaster Company
Fort Lancaster Company is a "Fiscally Sponsored Project" of the Friends of the Texas Historical Commission (a 501(C)(3) nonprofit charitable organization). Your gift will directly support this organization.
Events at Fort Lancaster
A Soldier's Life
Visit for a hands on experience of Soldier's equipment from the 1800s at Fort Lancaster
Thursday, April 25th, 2024 at 1pm to 4pm.
Contact Fort Lancaster at: 432-836-4391 for more information.
A Soldier's Life
Visit for a hands on experience of Soldier's equipment from the 1800s at Fort Lancaster
Thursday, May 2nd, 2024 at 1pm to 4pm.
Contact Fort Lancaster at: 432-836-4391 for more information.
The Camel Corps at Fort Lancaster
Join us on Saturday, May 4th, 2024, for an unforgettable experience at Fort Lancaster!
Fort Lancaster will be hosting a special event featuring live camels with the The US Camel Experiment! There will also be flintknapping occurring on site!
Learn about the fascinating role camels played in the history of the Old West and Fort Lancaster! Bring your family for a day of exploration and fun! Learn about the unique connection between camels and Fort Lancaster through engaging exhibits.
Join us at Fort Lancaster on May 4th for an adventure that blends history, education, and excitement. See you there!
Support Our Historic Sites
Make a gift to the Friends of the Texas Historical Commission, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to supporting the historic sites of the THC.
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