Fort Craig Historic Site
Bureau of Land Management, New Mexico.
April 14, 2023 update: The front gate at the fort will be closed from April 16 -27 . Visitors can access the self-guided walking trail around the fort, the restrooms, and the picnic tables through a walk-through gate located in the parking area. The hours on the self-guided trail will remain the same as currently posted.
Fort Craig, established in 1854, was one of the largest and most important frontier forts in the West. Set in the rugged beauty of Socorro County, N.M., it was one of the 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 Chacуn and Captain Jack Crawford.
Nearby Activities
- Historic & Cultural Site
- Interpretive Programs
- Photography
- Picnicking
Directions
Fort Craig is about 35 miles south of Socorro. From the north, take I-25 to the San Marcial exit, then 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.)
