Fort Kearny State Historical Park
4.0
(234)
3.8
(99)
4.0
•(234)
3.8
(99)
State park
Nature & Parks
Museum
Parks
Why you should go
- Explore an important site along the Oregon Trail with significant historical relevance to American westward expansion
- View artifacts in a small museum and learn about the settlers who passed through this area
- Experience a peaceful walk around the fort grounds while taking in the serene surroundings
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Highlighted reviews
Unlike others I really enjoyed the simplicity and openness of such an important stop for so many travelers along the Oregon Trail. There was a lot packed into the buildings you walk through if you take the time to look around. The blacksmith area was cool just to see the size of the equipment from the period. We also enjoyed reading about the Mormons coming across and hand carts. The ginormous lawn was well maintained which must take time and effort. It was great to bring the kids to see some history and walk around / get some energy out on our road trip.
There really isn't much to see here. A lot of grass and trees. The fort, well kids might get something out of it.
They do have some really cool cannons, I wish they were a little better displayed.
Anyway, don't stop here if you don't have a state park sticker, as it is not worth paying for one to see this.
My husband and I were out and about touring different places on the Nebraska Passport and since we were close by we decided to stop here and have a look around. The outside areas and scenic and clean. The gift shop was nice to look around in and the woman working there was super friendly and knowledgeable.
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Know before you go
- Visit during off-peak hours or weekdays to avoid crowds
- Bring cash for any additional fees like parking permits or museum entry
- Consider watching the informative movie inside before exploring to enhance your understanding of the site's history
- If interested in more details, inquire about guided tours for deeper insights into what you are viewing
Phone
(308) 865-5305Hours
SuSunday: 10AM–4PM
MoMonday: 10AM–4PM
TuTuesday: 10AM–4PM
WeWednesday: 10AM–4PM
ThThursday: 10AM–4PM
FrFriday: 10AM–4PM
SaSaturday: 10AM–4PM
1020 V Rd, Kearney, NE 68847, USA
Wednesday: 10AM–4PM
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
SuSunday: 10AM–4PM
MoMonday: 10AM–4PM
TuTuesday: 10AM–4PM
WeWednesday: 10AM–4PM
ThThursday: 10AM–4PM
FrFriday: 10AM–4PM
SaSaturday: 10AM–4PM
Reviews
Fort Kearny State Historical Park offers a glimpse into the history of the American West and the Oregon Trail. While some reviewers found it lacking in modern amenities and upkeep, others appreciated its historical significance and peaceful ambiance. Visitors can explore a small museum with artifacts, watch informative videos, see cannons and a blacksmith shop, and walk around the wooden fort grounds. Despite mixed reviews on maintenance and fees, many visitors enjoyed the experience for its historical value.Review score
4.0out of 5
Review score
3.8out of 5
5 stars
115
4 stars
56
3 stars
30
2 stars
18
1 star
15
Unlike others I really enjoyed the simplicity and openness of such an important stop for so many travelers along the Oregon Trail. There was a lot packed into the buildings you walk through if you take the time to look around. The blacksmith area was cool just to see the size of the equipment from the period. We also enjoyed reading about the Mormons coming across and hand carts. The ginormous lawn was well maintained which must take time and effort. It was great to bring the kids to see some history and walk around / get some energy out on our road trip.
There really isn't much to see here. A lot of grass and trees. The fort, well kids might get something out of it.
They do have some really cool cannons, I wish they were a little better displayed.
Anyway, don't stop here if you don't have a state park sticker, as it is not worth paying for one to see this.
My husband and I were out and about touring different places on the Nebraska Passport and since we were close by we decided to stop here and have a look around. The outside areas and scenic and clean. The gift shop was nice to look around in and the woman working there was super friendly and knowledgeable.
The visitors center/ museum was nice. I was disappointed with the blacksmith shop. The displays were not arranged and clearly deteriorating. There was a young man working on cleaning it up but you could tell it had been a while since any form of maintenance was done. The fort it’s just the walls with guard towers on the corners. No reconstructed buildings. They did have a walking path with the old foundations marked out and info boards. I feel it has historical interest but should really be repaired.
Went here during the pandemic. It is one of the most noted sites along the Ore/CA trail.
It is amazing to know how many settlers passed through here, and I for one am glad they didn't try to "modernize" this place.
It can be nice for a walk and a little history, but for those of us who had ancestors come west on the trail, these places are like churches!
This IS NOT THE CAMPGROUND! That is a separate location, please watch what you are reviewing.
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Phone
(308) 865-5305Hours
SuSunday: 10AM–4PM
MoMonday: 10AM–4PM
TuTuesday: 10AM–4PM
WeWednesday: 10AM–4PM
ThThursday: 10AM–4PM
FrFriday: 10AM–4PM
SaSaturday: 10AM–4PM
1020 V Rd, Kearney, NE 68847, USA
Wednesday: 10AM–4PM
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
SuSunday: 10AM–4PM
MoMonday: 10AM–4PM
TuTuesday: 10AM–4PM
WeWednesday: 10AM–4PM
ThThursday: 10AM–4PM
FrFriday: 10AM–4PM
SaSaturday: 10AM–4PM
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