Fort Scott National Historic Site

Fort Scott National Historic Site is located in Fort Scott, Kansas. It is situated on a bluff overlooking the Marmaton River, about 90 miles south of Kansas City. The historic site preserves and interprets the military fort that was once an important part of the United States' frontier defense system.

Established in 1842, Fort Scott served as a key outpost for troops guarding the border with the Indian Territory during the era of westward expansion. The fort played a crucial role in the eventful history of the region, serving as a supply depot, a base for military expeditions, and a refuge for settlers during times of conflict.

Visitors to Fort Scott National Historic Site can explore a well-preserved and restored fort that includes original limestone buildings. Guided tours are available, providing insights into the fort's military history and the lives of soldiers and civilians who lived there. The site also features exhibits and displays on various aspects of frontier life and the historical significance of the fort.

Beyond the fort itself, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The site offers picturesque views of the Marmaton River Valley and provides opportunities for hiking and picnicking. Additionally, the nearby downtown area of Fort Scott has a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, making it a worthwhile stop for visitors.

Overall, Fort Scott National Historic Site provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of the American frontier and the role that military forts played during this time period. Whether exploring the fort, learning about frontier life, or enjoying the scenic surroundings, visitors to Fort Scott are sure to have a memorable experience.

Fort Scott National Historic Site is located in the southeastern corner of the state of Kansas, near the city of Fort Scott. Situated within Bourbon County, the site is nestled amidst rolling green hills and lush vegetation, offering a picturesque and serene setting. The fort itself is strategically positioned at the junction of the Marmaton River and Mill Creek, providing a vital water source and a convenient path for trade and transportation in the 19th century. Surrounded by vast prairies and fertile farmlands, this historic site showcases the region's natural beauty and serves as a gateway to the rich history and cultural heritage of the area.

Address & Contact

1 Old Fort Blvd.
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Driving Directions
Phone: 6202230310
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Fort Scott National Historic Site would be from May to October. During this period, temperatures range from 77°F to 89°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Precipitation levels are also moderate during these months, averaging between 4.1 to 7.5 inches.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Fort Scott National Historic Site are: Guided Tours Junior Ranger Program Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Living History Historic Weapons Demonstration

Topics

Learn about these topics at Fort Scott National Historic Site: Native American Heritage Transportation Westward Expansion Military African American Heritage Schools and Education Women's History Grasslands Forts Infantry and Militia Artillery Wars and Conflicts Civil War Cavalry Indigenous and Native Warrior Incarceration Medicine Hospital Prairies Mexican War Trains and Railroads Jails and Prisons

Visitor Centers

Visitor Center

The Visitor Center for the site is located on the ground floor of the post hospital which is located at the entrance to the site near Old Fort Blvd. Summer hours are April 1 through September 30. If you plan to visit outside of this time, please see the exception below.

Passport Stamp locations

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

Campsites within or near Fort Scott 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 Scott National Historic Site

King's Way Inn

With a stay at King's Way Inn in Fort Scott, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Bourbon County Fairgrounds and Fort Scott National Cemetery. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2222 South Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas 66701
Web: Link

Fort Scott Inn

With a stay at Fort Scott Inn in Fort Scott, you'll be a 4-minute walk from Fort Scott National Historic Site and within a 5-minute drive of Gunn Park. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 101 State Street, Fort Scott, Kansas 66701
Web: Link

Super 8 by Wyndham Nevada

With a stay at Super 8 by Wyndham Nevada in Nevada, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Bushwhacker Museum and Cottey College. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, laundry facilities, and coffee/tea in a common area. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2301 E Austin Blvd, Nevada, Missouri 64772
Web: Link

Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Nevada

Located in Nevada, Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Nevada is within a 5-minute drive of Fox Playhouse and Bushwhacker Museum. Featured amenities include express check-in, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby.
Address: 2345 E Marvel Rd, Nevada, Missouri 64772
Web: Link

Lyons Twin Mansions

Located in Fort Scott, Lyons Twin Mansions is in the historical district, within a 5-minute drive of Fort Scott National Historic Site and Gunn Park. Featured amenities include express check-in and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 742 South National, Fort Scott, Kansas 66701
Web: Link

Nevada Inn

With a stay at Nevada Inn in Nevada, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Fox Playhouse and Bushwhacker Museum. Featured amenities include express check-in, express check-out, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1514 E Austin Blvd, Nevada, Missouri 64772
Web: Link

Sleep Inn & Suites Fort Scott

With a stay at Sleep Inn & Suites Fort Scott in Fort Scott, you'll be a 3-minute walk from Fort Scott National Historic Site and within a 5-minute drive of Gunn Park. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-out. Planning an event in Fort Scott? This hotel has facilities measuring 581 square feet (54 square meters), including a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 302 E Wall St., Fort Scott, Kansas 66701
Web: Link

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Nevada, an IHG Hotel

Located in Nevada, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Nevada, an IHG Hotel is in a rural location, within a 5-minute drive of Fox Playhouse and Bushwhacker Museum. Featured amenities include a business center, luggage storage, and laundry facilities. Planning an event in Nevada? This hotel has facilities measuring 583 square feet (54 square meters), including a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 311 S Johnson Dr, Nevada, Missouri 64772
Web: Link

Azure Sky Motel

With a stay at Azure Sky Motel in Fort Scott, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Fort Scott National Historic Site and Gunn Park. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 902 E Wall St, Fort Scott, Kansas 66701
Web: Link

Travelodge by Wyndham Fort Scott

Located in Fort Scott, Travelodge by Wyndham Fort Scott is within a 5-minute drive of Bourbon County Fairgrounds and Fort Scott National Cemetery. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2505 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas 66701
Web: Link