Step into Texas history by exploring over 50 historic forts across the state. From iconic landmarks like The Alamo to lesser-known gems like Fort Griffin, these sites tell the story of frontier life. Discover preserved forts, fascinating ruins, and lost locations across the seven regions of Texas.

The Gulf Coast’s forts guarded vital ports and trade routes while offering stunning waterfront views.

Preserved Forts

• Fort Crockett: A coastal defense fort in Galveston with partially preserved structures.

Ruins or Partially Preserved Forts

• Fort Travis: Located on Bolivar Peninsula, this site offers Gulf views and remnants of its defenses.

Lost or Historical Marker Sites

• Fort Velasco: Near Freeport, this site marked the first battle of the Texas Revolution.
• Fort Hebert: A Confederate defense fort near Sabine Pass, now lost.
• Fort Esperanza: Built on Matagorda Island during the Civil War, now eroded.

The Hill Country’s forts protected settlers and established early communities amidst the scenic landscapes of Central Texas.

Preserved Forts

• Fort McKavett: Known as the “Queen of Texas Frontier Posts,” this site features stunning limestone buildings and scenic views of the San Saba River.

Ruins or Partially Preserved Forts

• Fort Martin Scott: Near Fredericksburg, this partially reconstructed site highlights early U.S. Army peacekeeping efforts.

Lost or Historical Marker Sites

• Fort Terrett: Built to protect settlers along the Llano River, now marked by ruins.
• Fort Croghan: Established in Burnet to safeguard settlers, with partial reconstructions and markers.
• Fort Mason: Once home to military leaders like Robert E. Lee, now commemorated with historical markers in Mason County.
• Fort San Saba: A Spanish presidio near Menard; its ruins reflect its colonial history.

The Panhandle Plains’ forts played a critical role in protecting settlers and cattle ranchers while facilitating westward expansion.

Preserved Forts

• Fort Griffin: Known for its Wild West history and the official Texas longhorn herd.
• Fort Concho: A National Historic Landmark showcasing military life with restored buildings and exhibits.
• Fort Richardson: Restored officers’ quarters and a hospital reflect life on the frontier after the Civil War.

Ruins or Partially Preserved Forts

• Fort Phantom Hill: Known for its haunting chimneys, this fort served as a mail route stop.

Lost or Historical Marker Sites

• Fort Belknap: A vital link in the frontier defense network, now partially reconstructed.
• Fort Chadbourne: Near Bronte, this site offers a mix of restored structures and ruins.
• Fort Elliott: Guarded cattle trails in Hemphill County, now commemorated with markers.
• Fort Griffin (Second Site): Later expansions to the original site extended its role in frontier defense.

The Piney Woods housed forts that guarded trade routes and river crossings, serving as vital hubs for early settlers and traders.

Ruins or Partially Preserved Forts

• Fort Terán: A critical checkpoint near the Sabine River, this fort played a key role in early Texas trade and diplomacy.

Lost or Historical Marker Sites

• Fort St. Louis: Archaeological remnants of La Salle’s ill-fated French settlement highlight the struggles of early European explorers in Texas.
• Fort Lyday: A small outpost established to protect settlers in Coleman County, remembered now through historical records.
• Fort Boggy: Located near Fort Boggy State Park, this fort served settlers in the area and is commemorated with a historical marker.
• Fort Chadwick: A briefly used fort in East Texas, its history is preserved only in records and memories.

The fertile lands of Prairies and Lakes were home to forts that protected settlers, guarded important trails, and established early communities in Texas.

Ruins or Partially Preserved Forts

• Fort Parker: A reconstructed fort tells the story of the Parker family and early frontier struggles, offering a glimpse into life during Texas’ settlement period.

Lost or Historical Marker Sites

• Fort Houston: This post near Palestine is now commemorated with a historical marker for its contributions to early Texas defense.
• Fort Gates: Once guarding settlers along the Leon River, this fort is now marked by a plaque as a reminder of its historical significance.
• Fort Graham: Near Lake Whitney, this fort protected settlers along the Brazos River and is now remembered through markers and records.
• Fort Colorado: Near Austin, this fort defended settlers during the Republic of Texas era and remains a vital piece of Texas history.
• Fort Wolters: Originally a military training base near Mineral Wells, this site is now commemorated with a plaque highlighting its role in 20th-century military operations.

Rich in cultural history, this region’s forts highlight pivotal moments in Texas’ fight for independence and early statehood.

Preserved Forts

• Fort Sam Houston: An active military base with preserved historic quarters and a museum.

Lost or Historical Marker Sites

• Fort Inge: Near Uvalde, this fort protected settlers and is now a historical marker.
• Fort Ewell: Located on the Nueces River, it is now completely lost.
• Fort Lipantitlán: A key Texas Revolution site near Corpus Christi, now a state historical site.
• Fort Duncan: Near Eagle Pass, this fort features preserved buildings and a museum.
• Fort Ringgold: Located in Rio Grande City, some buildings remain from this significant site.
• Fort McIntosh: Near Laredo, remnants highlight its role in Texas-Mexico relations.