Fort Sumter Field Trip

The historic 19th century bricks at Fort Sumter show heavy damage from the 1863 bombardments.
Visitors have the opportunity to view the ruins of Fort Sumter up close. The Fort is protected by the National Park Service, under the Department of the Interior. We ask that all visitors act in a safe and responsible way when visiting these historic grounds.

NPS/ N. Boyd

Historic Fort Sumter is located in the middle of Charleston Harbor and is only accessible by boat. Before scheduling a trip to Fort Sumter make sure to plan ahead..

Fort Sumter does not charge an entrance fee; however, tickets for the authorized concession-operated ferry to Fort Sumter are required and may be purchased in advance through Fort Sumter Tours. Please reference fees for additional details.

 
Taking a school group out to Fort Sumter and looking for an educational activity?

Try this Scavenger Hunt! (Ideal for grades 3-5)
 

Before visiting Fort Sumter please review the safety rules and regulations with students and chaperones. Required: Student groups (12th grade and younger) are required to have a minimum of one adult leader for every ten children. Students must stay with their designated adult leaders at all times. Adult leaders are responsible for their group's conduct.

For the protection of the visitors and the historic fort the regulations include:

Be aware of the uneven surfaces throughout the fort and watch your step!

No climbing: no one may climb on any piece of the fort including the historic cannon

Stay within chain and metal barriers: do not cross any of the barriers set in place for safety purposes

Leave everything where it is found: do not remove a single piece of Fort Sumter including loose bricks rock and shell.

Do not go onto or past the large rocks surrounding Fort Sumter

Smoking is not permitted.

Stay hydrated: bring a reusable water bottle and take advantage of the water bottle filling stations on site

No more than 15 persons may be inside of the park store at one time and remember all children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

These rules are in place to protect you and this historic site so future students can learn from and enjoy it too!

Last updated: August 11, 2022

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1214 Middle Street
Sullivan's Island, SC 29482

Phone:

(843) 883-3123

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