Fort Bowie National Historic Site

Fort Bowie National Historic Site is located in southeastern Arizona, near the present-day town of Bowie. Situated at the junction of the Chiricahua and Dos Cabezas Mountains, the site offers a glimpse into the history of the American West.

The fort was established in 1862 as a military outpost to protect emigrants, miners, and travelers from conflicts with the Chiricahua Apache Indians. It played a significant role during the Apache Wars, serving as a base for various military campaigns against the tribes led by famous figures such as Cochise and Geronimo. The fort was eventually abandoned in 1894, marking the end of its active military use.

Visitors to Fort Bowie National Historic Site can explore the remnants of the fort, including ruins of the adobe buildings, a restored cemetery, and interpretive exhibits that shed light on the challenging history of the region. Hiking trails lead through the scenic landscape, guiding visitors to important historical sites such as Apache Pass, where military encounters with the Apache took place.

One of the highlights of the site is the visitor center, which offers detailed information about the fort's history and the conflicts between Native Americans and settlers. Rangers are available to provide additional insights and answer questions.

Near Fort Bowie, visitors will find several other attractions. Chiricahua National Monument, known for its unique rock formations, is located about 25 miles to the southeast. Nature enthusiasts can explore its many hiking trails and witness the stunning scenic views. Additionally, the town of Tombstone, famous for its Wild West history and the iconic OK Corral, is within driving distance from the fort.

Fort Bowie National Historic Site provides an opportunity to step back in time and understand the struggles faced by both the military and the Native Americans during the tumultuous period of westward expansion.

Fort Bowie National Historic Site is located in southeastern Arizona, nestled within the strikingly beautiful landscapes of Cochise County. This historical site can be found approximately 100 miles southeast of Tucson, along the border of the Chiricahua Mountains and the San Simon Valley. Situated in the remote foothills of the Dos Cabezas Mountains, Fort Bowie is surrounded by rolling hills, rugged canyons, and sweeping desert vistas. Its unique geographical location provides visitors with an immersive experience as they step into the past, allowing them to appreciate the natural beauty and diverse terrain that once shaped the historical events that transpired at this significant military outpost.

Address & Contact

3500 South Apache Pass Road
Bowie, AZ 85605
Driving Directions
Phone: 520-549-6751
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Fort Bowie National Historic Site would be in April or October. During these months, the average maximum temperatures range from 82°F to 83°F, which provides pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation is relatively low, ranging from 0.2 to 0.7 inches, ensuring that visitors can enjoy their time without being hindered by excessive rain.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Fort Bowie National Historic Site are: Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Hiking Front-Country Hiking Horse Trekking Horseback Riding

Topics

Learn about these topics at Fort Bowie National Historic Site: Animals Birds Groundwater Freshwater Springs Native American Heritage Military US Army Burial, Cemetery and Gravesite Forts Wars and Conflicts Indian and Frontier Wars

Visitor Centers

Fort Bowie National Historic Site Visitor Center

The visitor center is best accessed via the Fort Bowie Trail. The story of Apache Pass and the events that led to the establishment of Fort Bowie are best understood via a 3-mile roundtrip hike from the trailhead on Apache Pass Road to the visitor center and Second Fort Ruins. For those who cannot hike the trail visit our directions page for more info: https://www.nps.gov/fobo/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Fort Bowie National Historic Site Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Fort Bowie National Historic Site

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Fort Bowie National Historic Site

Days Inn by Wyndham Willcox

When you stay at Days Inn by Wyndham Willcox in Willcox, you'll be in the business district, within a 5-minute drive of Walker Family Medicine and Schwertner House. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 724 N Bisbee Ave, Willcox, Arizona 85643
Web: Link

SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Willcox

Located in Willcox, SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Willcox is in a rural location, within a 5-minute drive of Walker Family Medicine and Schwertner House. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1100 W Rex Allen Dr, Willcox, Arizona 85643
Web: Link

Super 8 by Wyndham Willcox

With a stay at Super 8 by Wyndham Willcox in Willcox, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Walker Family Medicine and Schwertner House. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1500 W Fort Grant Rd, Willcox, Arizona 85643
Web: Link

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Willcox, an IHG Hotel

Located in Willcox, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Willcox, an IHG Hotel is a 2-minute drive from Walker Family Medicine and 7 minutes from Schwertner House. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1251 N Virginia Ave, Willcox, Arizona 85643
Web: Link

Willcox Inn

Located in Willcox, Willcox Inn is within a 5-minute drive of Walker Family Medicine and Schwertner House. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, and laundry facilities. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 921 N Bisbee Ave, Willcox, Arizona 85643
Web: Link

Arizona Sunset Inn

With a stay at Arizona Sunset Inn in Willcox, you'll be within a 10-minute walk of Chiricahua Regional Museum and Historic Railroad Park. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 340 S. Haskell Ave, Willcox, Arizona 85643
Web: Link

OYO Hotel Rose's Willcox - North Haskell Ave

With a stay at OYO Hotel Rose's Willcox - North Haskell Ave in Willcox, you'll be within a 15-minute walk of Schwertner House and Friends of Marty Robbins Museum. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 660 N Haskell Ave, Willcox, Arizona 85643
Web: Link