NPS photo The Story Behind Bent's FortCongress designated Bent's Old Fort a unit of the National Park System in 1960 to tell the story of how the fort helped develop the west in the mid-1800s. The Fort is located on the Santa Fe National Historic Trail, a trail of international commerce. Trade brought many cultures together. Relationships developed and lives were forever changed in the aftermath of the US-Mexican War. 
Photos & Multimedia
The reconstructed fort with all its furnished rooms provides an unique setting to recreate or explore scenes of the past. 
Become a Junior Ranger
Visit the park, experience the fort using the booklet, complete the pages for your age group and receive a Junior Ranger Badge. 
Western National Parks Association Store
Complete your visit by checking out the Western National Parks Association Store at the rear of the fort. 
Nature & Science
Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site is located in the high plains along the Arkansas River in southeastern Colorado. 
History & Culture
Explore the confluence of commerce, culture, and cooperation at a borderlands crossroads. 
Management
Learn more about how the park and its resources are managed. |
Last updated: March 12, 2025