Fort Laramie National Historic Site

Fort Laramie National Historic Site is located in eastern Wyoming, along the North Platte River. It served as an important trading post and military fort during the 19th century, playing a significant role in the American West.

Originally established as Fort William in 1834 by fur traders, the fort was bought by the American Fur Company in 1841 and renamed Fort John. In 1849, the US Army acquired the fort and renamed it Fort Laramie, after the nearby Laramie River. Fort Laramie became a vital supply point for emigrants traveling along the Oregon, California, and Mormon Pioneer Trails.

During the mid-1800s, the fort was a critical meeting place for Native American tribes and the US government. Numerous treaties were signed at Fort Laramie, attempting to establish peace and demarcate territories. However, conflicts and tensions continued to rise, leading to the closure of the fort in 1890.

Today, Fort Laramie National Historic Site preserves the remaining structures and offers visitors a glimpse into its historic past. The site features restored barracks, officer quarters, and the iconic Old Bedlam, a two-story officers’ quarters known for its lively social events. Visitors can explore the historic buildings, walk along the wooden sidewalks, and learn about life at the fort through exhibits and guided tours.

Additionally, various events and programs are held at the site, including living history demonstrations, reenactments, and ranger-led talks. These activities offer visitors an interactive experience and a chance to immerse themselves in the rich history of the fort.

Several attractions can be found near Fort Laramie National Historic Site. Just a short drive away is the Oregon National Historic Trail, where visitors can follow the footsteps of pioneers who ventured westward. Also nearby is the Guernsey State Park, offering opportunities for camping, boating, and hiking. The Register Cliff, located along the historic Oregon Trail route, provides visitors with a chance to see the names and messages left by travelers from the 1800s.

Overall, Fort Laramie National Historic Site in Wyoming stands as a testament to the importance of the American West in shaping the nation's history. With its well-preserved structures and fascinating exhibits, it offers visitors a unique experience to step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of the events that unfolded at this significant site.

Fort Laramie National Historic Site is nestled in the scenic northeastern corner of Wyoming, showcasing the deep historical significance of the region. Situated in Goshen County, the fort lies at the convergence of the Laramie and North Platte Rivers. Surrounded by sprawling plains and framed by majestic mountain ranges, the site enjoys a stunning natural backdrop. Its strategic position on the historic Oregon Trail further enhances its significance, as it served as a vital stopover for pioneers, trappers, and Native American tribes. With its picturesque location and rich history, Fort Laramie National Historic Site truly offers visitors a unique and captivating experience.

Address & Contact

965 Gray Rocks Road
Fort Laramie, WY 82212
Driving Directions
Phone: 3078372221
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Fort Laramie National Historic Site would be in April or May. During this time, the average maximum temperature ranges from 62°F to 70°F, providing comfortable weather for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation is moderate, with values of 1.8 inches and 3.3 inches respectively. These months offer a balance between pleasant weather and manageable visitor numbers, allowing you to enjoy the site without large crowds.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Fort Laramie National Historic Site are: Astronomy Stargazing Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Junior Ranger Program Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Gift Shop and Souvenirs Fishing Living History Self-Guided Tours - Auto Historic Weapons Demonstration Freshwater Fishing

Topics

Learn about these topics at Fort Laramie National Historic Site: Native American Heritage Transportation Westward Expansion Military US Army Forts Infantry and Militia Wars and Conflicts Migrations Cavalry Indigenous and Native Warrior Roads, Routes and Highways Indian and Frontier Wars

Visitor Centers

Fort Laramie National Historic Site Visitor Center

Start your tour at the Visitor Center. Located in the restored 1884 Commissary Storehouse, you can view an 18-minute orientation film, tour our museum, and browse our award-winning bookstore.

Passport Stamp locations

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

Campsites within or near Fort Laramie 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 Laramie National Historic Site

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Torrington, an IHG Hotel

With a stay at Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Torrington, an IHG Hotel in Torrington, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Wyoming Theatre and Goshen County Fair Grounds. Featured amenities include a business center, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. A roundtrip airport shuttle is complimentary (available 24 hours).
Address: 1700 E Valley Rd, Torrington, Wyoming 82240
Web: Link

Americas Best Value Inn Torrington

A stay at Americas Best Value Inn Torrington places you in the heart of Torrington, within a 10-minute walk of Wyoming Theatre and North Platte River. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, laundry facilities, and an elevator. RV/bus/truck parking is available onsite.
Address: 1548 Main Street, Torrington, Wyoming 82240
Web: Link

Travelodge by Wyndham Torrington

When you stay at Travelodge by Wyndham Torrington in Torrington, you'll be next to a golf course, within a 5-minute drive of Wyoming Theatre and Eastern Wyoming College. Featured amenities include express check-out, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1555 Main St, Torrington, Wyoming 82240
Web: Link

West Winds Motel

With a stay at West Winds Motel in Wheatland, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Platte County Memorial Hospital and Lewis Park. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1756 South St, Wheatland, Wyoming 82201
Web: Link

Motel 6 Wheatland, WY

With a stay at Motel 6 Wheatland, WY, you'll be centrally located in Wheatland, just a 5-minute walk from Platte County Memorial Hospital and 10 minutes by foot from Wheatland Golf Club. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 95 16th St, Wheatland, Wyoming 82201
Web: Link

Grandma's Inn

With a stay at Grandma's Inn in Torrington, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Goshen County Fair Grounds and Wyoming Theatre. Featured amenities include express check-in and coffee/tea in a common area. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 4577 US-26, Torrington, Wyoming 82240
Web: Link

Cobblestone Hotel and Suites Torrington

With a stay at Cobblestone Hotel and Suites Torrington in Torrington, you'll be 0.4 mi (0.7 km) from Wyoming Theatre and 23.5 mi (37.8 km) from Fort Laramie National Historic Site. 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: 1306 Main Street, Torrington, Wyoming 82240
Web: Link