Fort Craig Historic Site
Established in 1854, Fort Craig was one of the largest and most important frontier forts in the West. Set in the rugged beauty of Socorro County, NM, it was one of eight forts situated along the primary north-south road in the Rio Grande Valley. Fort Craig played a crucial role in Indian campaigns and the Civil War. Military excursions from Fort Craig pursued such notable Apache leaders as Geronimo, Victorio, and Nana. The Fort has a rich multicultural history, full of stories of courage, honor, and sacrifice. The Fort was home to Buffalo Soldiers of the 9th Cavalry and 38th and 125th Infantry, the predominantly Hispanic New Mexico Volunteers and New Mexico Militia, and household names like Kit Carson, Rafael Chacón, and Captain Jack Crawford.
Photos
Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)
- All the walkways around the Visitor Center and the parking lot restrooms are paved, level, and two to three feet wide. There are ADA-accessible parking spots right beside the restrooms, Visitor Center, and a limited section of accessible trail at the trailhead.
- The parking lot, which is large and flat, has a thick layer of pea gravel and is easy to navigate by car.
- The trail around the Fort is approximately two miles long and is composed of loops and intersections that lead back to the Visitor Center. To navigate most of the trail one needs to be able to hike across relatively flat ground, watch for snakes, and navigate several small steps.
Know Before You Go
Fees
- None.
Facilities
- Visitor Center: Thursday - Monday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- The Visitor Center is cashless.
- Cash donations are still accepted. The area has an ADA-accessible trail, picnic facilities, interpretive signs, vault toilet restrooms, and drinking water.
Nearby Amenities
- The nearest location to acquire food, gas, and water is in San Antonio, NM, ~ 33 miles away via Old U.S. Hwy 85 and I-25 N.
Season/Hours
- Open year around.
- Self-guided interpretive trail and picnic area open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 1 hour before sunset.
Special Rules
- Please make sure to carry out any litter or put it in the trashcans.
- No fireworks, discharge or use of firearms, or any other weapons are allowed.
- Pets must be on a 6 ft leash.
- The gate to enter the Fort does close one hour before sunset.
Brochures, Maps, and Publications
Wildlife in Area
- Rattlesnakes
Phone
Activities
Addresses
Geographic Coordinates
Directions
Fort Craig is about 35 miles south of Socorro, NM. From the north, take I-25 to the San Marcial exit, head east over the Interstate, and south on old Highway 1 (about 11 miles). Then, follow the signs to Fort Craig. (If traveling on I-25 from the south, take exit 115.)
Fees
No.