Last updated: July 6, 2024
Thing to Do
Explore the Parade Ground
NPS Photo
For more than thirty years during the mid-1800’s, soldiers drilled on the large parade ground. Flanked by the Officers’ Quarters to the right and the enlisted men’s barracks on the left, the parade ground was the center of life at the fort.
The loop around the parade ground is one quarter of a mile. Surrounding the parade ground to the north is the Commissary, to the east is the Visitor Center (former barracks, courthouse, and jail building), to the south is the Gallows, and to the west are the Officers' Quarters and Garden.
The loop around the parade ground is one quarter of a mile. Surrounding the parade ground to the north is the Commissary, to the east is the Visitor Center (former barracks, courthouse, and jail building), to the south is the Gallows, and to the west are the Officers' Quarters and Garden.
Details
Duration
30-45 Minutes
Activity
Front-Country Hiking
There are wayside and other points of interest on the loop.
Age(s)
All ages
Pets Allowed
Yes
Visitors are welcome to take their dogs with them while exploring the park trails and grounds, as long as they follow the BARK Ranger rules:
B is for Bag your pet's waste. Bag dispensers and trash bins can be found along the walking trails.
A is for Always use a leash. Keeping your dog on a leash helps protect them and others.
R is for Respect wildlife. Keep an eye out for snakes, fire ants, and stinging insects. Remember that squirrels and birds also like to be left alone!
K is for Know where you can go. While pets are welcome outside, only service animals are allowed inside the visitor center.
B is for Bag your pet's waste. Bag dispensers and trash bins can be found along the walking trails.
A is for Always use a leash. Keeping your dog on a leash helps protect them and others.
R is for Respect wildlife. Keep an eye out for snakes, fire ants, and stinging insects. Remember that squirrels and birds also like to be left alone!
K is for Know where you can go. While pets are welcome outside, only service animals are allowed inside the visitor center.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Parade Ground
There are several access points for the the Parade Ground loop.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Time of Day
Day, Dawn, Dusk
Park grounds are open from sunrise to sunset every day.
Accessibility Information
The loop around the parade ground is a cement sidewalk four feet wide.
The loop is flat with an extimated slope and cross slope is less than 1%.
Benches can be found at the north end at the Guardhouse and the Commissary and Frisco Overlook.
The loop is flat with an extimated slope and cross slope is less than 1%.
Benches can be found at the north end at the Guardhouse and the Commissary and Frisco Overlook.