Safety

Trails
A paved pathway, 1,275 feet in length, connects the parking lot to the fort entrance and is wheelchair accessible. Procced with care during warm seasons as bull snakes and rattesnakes are occasionally seen in and around the fort. Public facilities with restrooms and water fountain are immediately available upon entry, but no additional facilities exist along the 1.75 mile interpretive loop trail on fort grounds. Safety for hikers is assured by avoiding the Arkansas River edge as the bank may be undercut and could collapse. All water activities including swimming is not allowed on the historic site grounds.

Livestock
Visitors should not approach the ox that roams on fort grounds. Peacocks, peafowl, and cats that live at the fort are not pets and are best left to themselves.

Personal Pets
Dog are permitted on the trail and must be leashed at all times, kept close at hand, and steered away from any fort livestock. Dogs may occupy the fort plaza, but should remain outside the fort rooms.

Weather Conditions
Plan to wear clothing appropriate for the season. The southern plains is often very windy. Summer temperatures can reach the 100s with intense sun. Winter temperatures can be below freezing.There are a few heated rooms in the fort.

Water
Water is crucial in this harsh, dry climate. Visitors may fill their water bottles at the parking lot rest area during the summer months to combat the heat.

Watch Your Step
When open, visitors are advised to be careful while climbing stairs, walking the second story and entering the rooms.