Fort Larned was established in 1859 as a base of military operations against hostile Indians of the Central Plains, to protect traffic along the Santa Fe Trail and as an agency for the administration of the Central Plains Indians by the Bureau of Indian Affairs under the terms of the Fort Wise Treaty of 1861.

With nine restored buildings, it survives as one of the best examples of Indian Wars period forts. Most of the buildings including: barracks, commissary, officers quarters and more, are furnished to their original appearance. Fort Larned National Historic Site takes visitors back to this turbulent era in our nation's history.

 Directions 

Plane - There is an airport outside of the town of Great Bend approximately 27 miles east of the park.

Car - From Interstate 70, travel 30 miles west of Salina, the fort is 83 miles southwest, after taking exit 225. The park is also accessible by KS 156 and various other state roads.