Depot Square | Evanston

Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park is a historical site located near Bismarck, North Dakota, preserving a significant U.S. Army post and the Mandan Village of On-A-Slant.

Visual Characteristics

The park features reconstructed military buildings constructed from wood and stone, including barracks, officers' quarters, and cavalry stables. The landscape includes rolling prairie, the confluence of the Heart and Missouri Rivers, and the earthen mounds of the Mandan village. The reconstructed blockhouse stands prominently on a bluff overlooking the river valley.

Location & Access Logistics

Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park is situated approximately 10 miles south of Bismarck, North Dakota, accessible via State Highway 1806. The park entrance is clearly marked. Ample parking is available at the visitor center and various historical areas within the park. Public transportation is not available directly to the park; private vehicle is the primary access method.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The U.S. Army post was established in 1874 and served as a key military installation during the westward expansion and the Plains Indian Wars. It was named after President Abraham Lincoln. The Mandan village of On-A-Slant predates the fort by centuries, dating back to approximately 1575 AD, and represents a significant Northern Plains Native American settlement.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the reconstructed Lincoln-Custer Home, the reconstructed barracks, and the blockhouse. Archaeological sites of the Mandan village, including earthlodge depressions, are accessible. Hiking trails offer views of the Missouri River. Seasonal living history demonstrations are conducted. Interpretive programs are available at the visitor center.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the visitor center and designated picnic areas. Shaded areas are present in picnic spots and within some reconstructed buildings. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available within the park. Food vendors are not present within the park; visitors should bring their own provisions or utilize facilities in Bismarck.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography is during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun angle provides optimal lighting on the structures and landscape. The months of May through October offer the most favorable weather conditions for outdoor exploration. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

The park is the site where Lieutenant Colonel George A. Custer and his command departed for the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876. A local legend suggests that Custer's wife, Elizabeth, could still be seen pacing the grounds of their former home on moonlit nights, though this is unsubstantiated.

Nearby Landmarks

• North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum (8km North)
• Missouri River State Recreation Area (3km East)
• Camp Hancock State Historic Site (9km North)
• State Capitol Building (10km North)