Fort Craig Historic Site

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Socorro Field Office, 901 South Highway 85
Socorro, NM 87801

Established in 1854, Fort Craig was one of the largest and most important frontier forts in the West. Set in the rugged beauty of Socorro County, NM, it was one of eight forts situated along the primary north-south road in the Rio Grande Valley. Fort Craig played a crucial role in Indian campaigns and the Civil War. Military excursions from Fort Craig pursued such notable Apache leaders as Geronimo, Victorio, and Nana. The Fort has a rich multicultural history, full of stories of courage, honor, and sacrifice. The Fort was home to Buffalo Soldiers of the 9th Cavalry and 38th and 125th Infantry, the predominantly Hispanic New Mexico Volunteers and New Mexico Militia, and household names like Kit Carson, Rafael Chacón, and Captain Jack Crawford.

Directions

Fort Craig is about 35 miles south of Socorro, NM. From the north, take I-25 to the San Marcial exit, head east over the Interstate, and south on old Highway 1 (about 11 miles). Then, follow the signs to Fort Craig. (If traveling on I-25 from the south, take exit 115.)