Fort Kearny State Historical Park

Fort Kearny State Historical Park near Kearney in Buffalo County preserves the site of Fort Kearny, the first U.S. Army post built specifically to protect Oregon Trail emigrants heading west. Established in 1848, the fort served as a vital resupply point and military presence along the Platte River corridor. The park features a reconstructed blacksmith shop and stockade, an interpretive center with exhibits on the Oregon Trail and fort history, and nature trails through the Platte River wetlands, a critical habitat for migrating sandhill cranes each spring. A Nebraska State Park Entry Permit is required.