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Fort Bowie National Historic Site Visitor Center

San Simon, Arizona · Cochise County · Facility

The visitor center is best accessed via the Fort Bowie Trail. The story of Apache Pass and the events that led to the establishment of Fort Bowie are best understood via a 3-mile roundtrip hike from the trailhead on Apache Pass Road to the visitor center and Second Fort Ruins. For those who cannot hike the trail visit …

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About Fort Bowie National Historic Site Visitor Center

The visitor center is best accessed via the Fort Bowie Trail. The story of Apache Pass and the events that led to the establishment of Fort Bowie are best understood via a 3-mile roundtrip hike from the trailhead on Apache Pass Road to the visitor center and Second Fort Ruins. For those who cannot hike the trail visit our directions page for more info: https://www.nps.gov/fobo/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm

How to Get There

From Willcox, AZ / points west on I-10: drive 23 miles east of Willcox on Interstate 10 to the the town of Bowie. Exit at the first Bowie exit and drive through the town. Follow the signs for Fort Bowie National Historic Site and turn south on Apache Pass Road. Drive 13 miles to the Fort Bowie Trailhead (the last mile of the road is unpaved). Be prepared to walk the three miles round trip to the ruins and back to your car.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Fort Bowie National Historic Site Visitor Center

Heading to Fort Bowie National Historic Site Visitor Center? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Fort Bowie National Historic Site Visitor Center?

No central reservation system listed for Fort Bowie National Historic Site Visitor Center. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/258752) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Fort Bowie National Historic Site Visitor Center?

From Willcox, AZ / points west on I-10: drive 23 miles east of Willcox on Interstate 10 to the the town of Bowie. Exit at the first Bowie exit and drive through the town. Follow the signs for Fort Bowie National Historic Site and turn south on Apache Pass Road. Drive 13 miles to the Fort Bowie Trailhead (the last mile of the road is unpaved). Be prepared to walk the three miles round trip to the r…

How do I contact Fort Bowie National Historic Site Visitor Center?

You can reach the park at phone: (520) 549-6751 or email: chir_info@nps.gov.