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National Historic Site

Fort Larned National Historic Site

Men in 19th century U.S. Army uniforms fire a reproduction period cannon.

Volunteers demonstrating the use of a mountain howitzer during one of Fort Larned's living history weekends.

Photo: NPS Photo

About

Discover a complete and authentic army post from the 1860s -1870s! This well-preserved fort on the Santa Fe Trail shares a tumultuous history of the Indian Wars era. The sandstone constructed buildings sheltered troops who were known as the Guardians of the Santa Fe Trail.

Activities

FoodPicnickingGuided ToursSelf-Guided Tours - WalkingLiving HistoryHistoric Weapons DemonstrationJunior Ranger ProgramPark FilmMuseum ExhibitsShoppingBookstore and Park Store

Directions

Fort Larned National Historic Site is located on KS Hwy 156, six miles west of Larned, Kansas.

Get directions →

Weather

Central Kansas has a four-season climate. Winter tends to be cold and dry, with average daytime highs below 40F (4C). Foehn winds blowing across the Great Plains from the Southwest periodically raise temperatures above 80F (27C). Unsettled warmer air, higher winds, and severe weather arrive in the spring and often last through early July. Late summer days hover above 90F (32C) and readings over 100F (38C) are not uncommon. Fall is variable but generally milder with showers changing to snow and ice later.

News

The Holiday Season at Fort Larned National Historic Site
Dec 1, 2025

The Holiday Season at Fort Larned National Historic Site

Come celebrate the holiday season at Fort Larned National Historic site.