fort lancaster state historic site

This is a great little stop to stretch the legs and soak in some of the history of the area. The site is easy to walk with very good walkways. There is even a golf cart for those that may not be up to the walk. The park is a 15 minutes off I-10 in the middle of nowhere. Worth stopping in if you need a break from the freeway. Nice views on the scenic loop that get you on and off the freeway. Hot in summer, cold in winter. Took me an hour to really explore the place (November, 70 deg and windy). Nice visitors center, restrooms were clean. There is a $4 fee for adults.

Fort Lancaster was part of the western line protecting the San Antonio to El Paso to California trade route. We had already visited Fort Davis and were heading home on I-10, when we saw the signs for Fort Lancaster off of I-10. We decided to take a look.The visitor center has a model replicate of the fort, small exhibit, gift shop, and film. The film is on the camels. Camels in Texas! The exhibit has soldier coats, and laundress gowns for the kids to try on (great picture opportunity), and great information. The staff are knowledgeable and eager to help. The fort consists of ruins and trails. There are no fully reconstructed buildings at this point, but the sheer size, location, and history are amazing. Add this that it was great car break for our 5 year old. We ran the trails and looked for bugs..