Safety

Visitor fills water bottle at water fountain

NPS Photo

Trails

A paved pathway, 1,275 feet in length, connects the parking lot to the fort entrance and is wheelchair accessible. Procced with care during warm seasons as bull snakes and rattesnakes are occasionally seen in and around the fort. Public facilities with restrooms and water fountain are immediately available upon entry, but no additional facilities exist along the 1.75 mile interpretive loop trail on fort grounds. Safety for hikers is assured by avoiding the Arkansas River edge as the bank may be undercut and could collapse. All water activities including swimming are not allowed on the historic site grounds.

Livestock

Visitors should not approach the ox that roams on fort grounds. Peacocks, peafowl, and cats that live at the fort are not pets and are best left to themselves.

Personal Pets

Dog are permitted on the trail and must be leashed at all times, kept close at hand, and steered away from any fort livestock. Dogs may occupy the fort plaza, but should remain outside the fort rooms.

Weather Conditions

Plan to wear clothing appropriate for the season. The southern plains is often very windy. Summer temperatures can reach the 100s with intense sun. Winter temperatures can be below freezing.There are no heated rooms in the fort and no air conditioning in furnished rooms.

Operations Modifications in Severe Weather Scenarios

• If heat index is over 100 degrees F, tours of the reconstructed fort will be cancelled.
• If heat index is over 105 degrees F the reconstructed fort will be closed.
• If heavy rains flood the plaza, the fort will close until the water has drained enough to reopen the fort.
• If wind chill is under 10 F, the replica fort will close to the public.

Water

Water is crucial in this harsh, dry climate. Visitors may fill their water bottles at the parking lot rest area during the summer months to combat the heat.

Watch Your Step

Visitors are advised to be careful at all times and mindful of uneaven surfaces throughout the replica fort.