Fort Churchill was once a U.S. Army fort built in 1861 to provide protection for early settlers. It was abandoned ten years

later, and today the ruins are preserved in a state of arrested decay. The Pony Express and the Overland Telegraph once passed through this area. Nearby is Buckland Station, a Pony Express stop, supply center, and former hotel built in 1870. A visit to Fort Churchill requires a bit of imagination. The buildings that remain are in ruins; others simply no longer exist, and only markers tell what structures once stood there.

Facilities at Fort Churchill State Historic Park include trails, a campground, picnic area, group-use area and access to the Carson River. The river corridor, with its diverse plant and wildlife communities, is a popular area for hikers, birdwatchers, canoeists, hunters and equestrians. Visitors can enjoy hiking, historic and environmental education, camping, picnicking, photography and canoeing. The park is located eight miles south of Silver Springs on Alternate U.S. 95.

• All park visitors should check out the visitor center upon entering the park to better appreciate the ruins.