Bents Old Fort National Historic Site

An authentically reconstructed trading post based on drawings, written journals and archaeological excavations; "today's" fort was built in 1975-1976. The original post was constructed in the early 1830's and quickly became a major trading site for Plains Indian tribes and trappers. Owned by the partnership of Charles and William Bent and Ceran St. Vrain, the fort played a prominent role as a supply base for the expeditions of John Fremont and for American soldiers during the Mexican War. The fort was abandoned in 1849-1850 by William Bent during an epidemic of cholera. The murder of Charles Bent at his Taos home in 1847 and St. Vrain's unsuccessful attempts to sell the fort to the U.S. Army, also in 1847, may have set the stage for William Bent's abandonment.

40,000 visitors per year. Most people visit with school tours during the spring and as vacationing families throughout the summer and fall.

Camping: No overnight camping, gates close promptly at designated hours
Other lodging: None at the park, available in all surrounding communities
Food/supplies: None at the park, available in all surrounding communities
Accessibility: Accessible lower level rooms and public restrooms

Fees:
$2 per person, 16 years and under free, all valid National Park Service passports honored

Operating Hours, Seasons: The park is open every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day. Summer hours (Memorial through Labor Day): 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Winter hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Climate, Recommended Clothing:
Summer daytime temperatures range between 80 to 105 F, nights 50 to 75 F. Winter daytime temperatures range between 0 to 65 F, nights -20 to 30 F. Precipitation is minimal, brief afternoon thunderstorms with lightning, hail and gusty winds can occur during the summer; winter snow accumulations are generally light, but heavy snows may occur. Layered clothing appropriate for the season is recommended. Weather can vary greatly throughout the day.

Facilities & Activities

Programs/Activities:
Fully stocked bookstore and Indian trade room. Twenty-minute history film "Castle on the Plains." Guided tours hourly Memorial Day to Labor Day. Educational tours and demonstrations via reservations only.

Special Events: Old time fourth of July, National Park Service Founders Day on August 25; Kid's Quarters in early August, and Traditional Holiday Celebration first of second week of December.

Additional events may be aided with little prior notice; check periodically with the park for an updated schedule.

Daily living history demonstrations Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Directions
Located seven miles east of La Junta, CO, and 13 miles west of Las Animas, CO, on Highway 194.

The park is along the Arkansas River in Otero County of southeastern Colorado. The park is accessed via US Highway 50 and Colorado 194. The park is approximately 170 miles southeast of Denver, CO; 200 miles west of Dodge City, KS; and 330 miles north of Albuquerque, NM.

Transportation:
By air: Commercial airlines to Pueblo (75 miles) and Colorado Springs (125 miles)
By bus: Greyhound to all surrounding communities
By train: Amtrak to La Junta

35110 Highway 194 East
La Junta, Colorado 81050-9523
(719) 383-5010