Built to protect Overland Trail travelers, Fort Kearny SHP near Kearney was a stage station, home station for the Pony Express, outfitting depot for Indian campaigns and home of the Pawnee Scouts. The stockade, parade grounds and blacksmith shop have been rebuilt.

Archeological exploration by the Nebraska State Historical Society to locate building sites and other features has helped the Commission develop the park to give visitors an insight into the conditions and events contemporary with the settlement of the American West.

This history is revealed in several exhibits in the interpretive center and in the carpenter-blacksmith shop. Walkways lead to the stockade where more information is available.

Camping is available at nearby Fort Keany State Recreation Area. Campers will find south-central Nebraska's Fort Kearny State Recreation Area much to their liking. The attractive 152-acre area is located 3/4 mile east and 1 mile north of Fort Kearny State Historical Park.

Camping Facilities:75 camping pads with electrical hookups*35 camping pads without electricity*20/30 - 50 1-year advance reservable campsites

Fort Kearny is a year-round recreation area that provides modern camping. There are showers and modern restrooms, plus a trailer dump station. Stately cottonwood trees, some over 100 years old, shade much of the camping area.

All campers must register. Reservations are accepted. Reservations are taken for 50% of the modern camping. Reservations are taken up to 1 year in advance of arrival day.