7+ Historic Military Forts in Alabama Worth A Visit

When my son was little, his favorite part of history were the field trips we used to take to historical locations, with his favorite being old military forts. If you live in, or are taking a trip to Alabama, you will want to check out this list of military forts in Alabama to explore as part of your homeschool history lessons.

Historic Military Forts in Alabama

The state of Alabama is home to several historic military forts that have all played a significant role in American history. These forts have history dating back from the War of 1812, the Civil War, the Revolutionary War, and conflicts with Native American tribes.

There is just something magical about visiting the key sites where a historical event took place. Taking your kids on field trips to historical places as a part of your homeschool lessons can really help history come alive and more enjoyable for them.

Historic Military Forts You Can Visit

Many of the historical forts in Alabama have been torn down, or have fallen apart and can not be visited.

Yet there are some that have been restored and protected as a historic site that you can still visit today. The Alabama Historical Commission oversees several historic sites in Alabama. They manage and preserve these sites, ensuring their historical significance is maintained for public education and enjoyment.

1. Fort Charlotte/Fort Conde

Fort Charlotte also known as Fort Conde is located in Mobile, Alabama. It was built by French Explorers in 1702 under the name Fort Louis de la Mobile. It was named Fort Charlotte and became a Spanish fort when it was taken over by the Spanish. It was later renamed Fort Conde by the British in 1763.

This fort played a vital role during colonial conflicts, including the American Revolution.

Things to Do:

• Tour the Fort – Explore the reconstructed fortifications and learn about its military history.
• Visit the Museum – Check out exhibits on colonial and military history.
• Enjoy Living History Events – Attend reenactments and demonstrations of 18th-century life.
• Learn from Guides – Engage with knowledgeable staff for detailed insights and stories.

2. Fort Gaines

Less than 40 miles south of Mobile you can visit another fort – Fort Gaines. It’s located on Dauphin Island and was built in 1821 to protect Mobile Bay. This fort played a key role in the Civil War during the Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864. That battle is when Admiral Farragut shouted his now-famous order, “Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!”

The fort has been well preserved with original cannons, a blacksmith shop, kitchens, a museum, gift shop, and tunnels.

Things to Do:

• Explore the grounds – The fort features original cannons, a blacksmith shop, and tunnels.
• Scenic views – Enjoy stunning views of Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
• Reenactments – Watch live historical reenactments and demonstrations.
• Bird Watching – This is a popular spot for birdwatching, especially during migration season.
• Guided Tours – A guided tour is available for 15 people or more. The guide will be in period costume to bring history to life. Two weeks notice is required so be sure to contact them early.
• Massacre Island Event – The fort has held an annual “Massacre Island” event for the last few year in mid-September. If you want to see pirates, Spanish, British and French then be sure to reach out to the fort to get more details of this living history event.

3. Fort Morgan

On the opposite side of the bay from Fort Gaines is Fort Morgan. This historic fort was built in the early 19th century. Just like Fort Gaines, it also played a key role in the Civil War – especially during the Battle of Mobile Bay when Union forces captured it from the Confederate troops. Before that it was used as a defensive position for the Confederate forces before it was captured.

The fort was named after Daniel Morgan, a prominent Revolutionary War hero, though this Fort is not directly connected to his military career or activities.

If you are planning to see both Fort Gaines and Fort Morgan, then one option is catch the Mobile Bay Ferry between the two locations rather than driving completely around the bay. Tickets are needed and car space is limited so be sure to get in line early.

Things to Do:

• Explore the Fort – Tour the historic fortifications, including the bastions, tunnels, and gun emplacements.
• Museum Exhibits – Visit the museum and exhibits to learn about the fort’s role in the Civil War and other historical events.
• Enjoy the Views – Take in scenic views of Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico from the fort’s vantage points.
• Walk the Trails – Explore nearby nature trails and beaches.
• Events – Participate in live reenactments and educational programs hosted at the fort.

4. Fort Mims

If you want to add another fort near Mobile to your list, then be sure to consider Fort Mims. It’s located approximately 50 miles north of Fort Charlotte/Fort Conde near Tensaw, Alabama. This was the site of a tragic attack during the Creek War of 1813-1814. On August 30, 1813, Creek warriors besieged the fort, resulting in the massacre of around 250 settlers and militia.

Things To Do:

• Visit the Museum – Explore exhibits on the Creek War and the Fort Mims massacre that honors the victims.
• Tour the Site – Walk the grounds where the historic events took place, with informative markers to read.
• Attend Events – An annual reenactment of the Battle of Fort Mims is held every year at the fort at the end of August. It’s a weekend of living history, reenactments, crafts and more. The fort has a Facebook page to see pictures of the last event or go to FortMims.org
• Explore Nature – Enjoy the surrounding natural beauty and scenic views.

2 Bonus Military Sites to Visit Near Mobile

All four of the forts above are in the Mobile area. But if you want to visit even more military, Civil War or WWII sites before heading north to the other forts, then be sure to visit:

Historic Blakeley State Park contains sites of America’s largest Civil War battle, a junior ranger activity, orienteering course and more.

USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park allows you to explore a WWII battleship, submarine and more. They also have great educational resources including a virtual tours, pre & post activities and living history days every other month.

5. Fort Toulouse/Fort Jackson

Heading north from Mobile, Fort Toulouse also called Fort Jackson is located in Wetumpka, Alabama. Established in the 18th century, near modern day Montgomery, this fort was a key military and trading post for the French, British, and later the U.S.

Things to Do:

• Explore the Fort – Walk through the reconstructed fort to see historic military structures and learn about colonial fortifications.
• Visit the Museum – Check out exhibits on the fort’s history, colonial life, and Native American culture.
• Events – Participate in reenactments, workshops, and educational programs that bring history to life.
• Tour the Grounds – Enjoy the scenic views at the confluence of the Alabama and Coosa Rivers and explore the surrounding park areas.

6. Fort Mitchell

Fort Mitchell is located approximately 100 miles to the east of Fort Toulouse near the Georgia border. It was a military fortification active during the Creek War of 1813-1814. The fort served as a supply base, staging area and defensive position. It is now a national historic landmark.

Things to Do:

• Explore the Fort – visit the reconstructed log stockade, cemetery, and the nearby Chattahoochee Indian Heritage Center to learn about the area’s Native American heritage.
• Museum Exhibits – There are exhibits on Native American history, the Creek War, and the early 19th century.
• Events – There is live music every other Sunday, as well as annual reenactments and Pioneer Days.

2 Bonus Military Museums near Fort Mitchell

Even though these two bonus sites aren’t in Alabama, they are so close to Fort Mitchell we just had to share them. If you want to explore more military sites as a part of your homeschool studies then be sure to go across the Alabama-Georgia border to Columbus. There you’ll find two military museums:

The National Civil War Naval Museum gives students the ability to learn even more about the civil war. The museum offers different tours including a sailor’s life, and an African-American experience. If you are unable to tour the museum then be sure to grab their FREE activity book for kids to complete at home.

The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center is a place to learn about the infantry from the Revolutionary War to the present day. In additional to the informative exhibits the museum also has a virtual reality combat simulator, kids camps and more.

7. Fort Harker

Near the Tennessee border, Fort Harker is located in Stevenson, Alabama, and built in 1862 during the Civil War. The Union troops of the Union Army constructed it to protect the strategic railroad junction in Stevenson. The fort was made primarily of earthworks.

Things to Do:

• Explore the Fort’s Earthworks – Walk around the remains of the original earthworks and learn about the fort’s importance during the Civil War.
• Historical Markers -Read the informational plaques to learn about the fort’s history, its construction, and its role during the war.
• Picnic – The area covers 13 acres and has a park and picnic areas to relax in.

8. Fort Warren

Fort Warren is located in St. Clair County near the town of Ashville. Constructed by Colonel Richard Warren, the it was a Civil War-era fortification and served as a defensive post for the Confederate Army.

The site features remnants of the fort and offers a glimpse into Civil War military strategy and local history.

Things to Do:

• Explore the Ruins – Walk through the remaining structures and foundations to understand the fort’s layout and history.
• Visit Historical Markers – Read the markers that provide context about the fort’s role in the Civil War.

Historic Military Forts With No Structures Left

These forts have an important part in history and in the Alabama region. Unfortunately, the structures were either demolished, or fell apart on their own and can not be visited.

Encourage your children to look up the history behind them and the wars that they were a part of. If you are in the area, you may try to find them and there should be a historic marker or sign near the area.

9. Abner Turner’s Fort

Abner Turner’s Fort was situated along the Alabama River in Clarke County. It was one of several forts built during the Creek War of 1813-1814 to protect settlers in the area.

The fort was named after Abner Turner, who established it near Turkey Town to protect the settlers from the Red Sticks and the Creek Warrior attacks.

The original structure no longer exists, but the site remains a historical landmark commemorating early frontier life and conflict in Alabama.

10. Fort Armstrong

Fort Armstrong was a military fort established in 1814 during the Creek War, located near present-day Stockton, Alabama, in Baldwin County. Built by the U.S. Army, it served as a base for operations against the Creek Nation and a refuge for settlers. The fort played a role in securing the area during the conflict but was abandoned after the war.

You can visit the location near Stockton, Alabama. It is marked by historical signage that commemorates the fort’s significance during the Creek War. There are no remaining structures from the original fort left to see.

11. Fort Bibb

Fort Bibb Fort Bibb was constructed by Alabama Territorial Governor William Wyatt Bibb, in the winter of 1817-1818 to protect settlers from Creek Indian attacks

In March 1818, a group of settlers were ambushed by Creek Indians resulting in the deaths of about 22 people, including women and children. This event is often referred to as the Butler Massacre and is one of the significant violent encounters between settlers and Native Americans during that period.

The site is not preserved for visitors, but you can visit the historical marker that talks about the Butler Massacre and Fort Bibb.

12. Fort Easley

Fort Easley was located in Clarke County, Alabama, built in 1814 during the Creek War. Named after Colonel John Easley, it was used as a defensive structure to protect settlers from Creek attacks. The site is no longer a major landmark and can not be visited.

13. Fort Leslie/Fort Talladega

Fort Leslie also known as Fort Talladega, was located in Talladega County, Alabama. It played an important role during the Creek War and the War of 1812. Built by Alexander Leslie, it protected settlers against the Red Stick Creek Indians and was used by General Andrew Jackson for strategic military operations in the Batttle of Tallushatchee.

The site was significant in weakening the Creek Nation’s resistance and played a part in American expansion. Davy Crocket also served here.

The property that the Fort remains are located on was just purchased, with the hopes of restoring it so the public can visit.

14. Landrum’s Fort/Mott’s Fort

Landrum’s Fort also known as Mott’s Fort is located near the town of Wetumpka, Alabama. It was a military fortification during the Creek War of 1813-1814, The fort was used as a defensive position by settlers and military forces in the area.

The fort no longer exists, but you can visit the historical marker of where it was once located.

15. Fort Lavier

Fort Lavier was located near the Alabama River, roughly in the area of present-day Montgomery, Alabama. The exact location can be challenging to pinpoint as it may not have well-preserved remains or marked sites.

This fort was built during the Creek War of 1813-1814 and was used to defend against Creek attacks and served as a military position during the conflict.

16. Fort Montgomery

Fort Montgomery was located in Baldwin County, Alabama. This fort was a significant site during the Creek War. Built in 1814 near the Tensaw River, it served as a supply depot and refuge for settlers. The fort also played a key role in the Battle of Burnt Corn and the Fort Mims Massacre.

This fort is no longer standing, but there is a historical marker in its place.

17. Fort Stoddert

Fort Stoddert is located in Mobile, Alabama and was a military out post established in 1799. The fort played a crucial role in the early 19th century, serving as a defense against potential Spanish and Native American threats.

It also served as a customs house and the headquarters for the U.S. Army in the Mississippi Territory. Fort Stoddert was also notable for being the site of Aaron Burr’s arrest in 1807.

No structures are left standing at this location.

18. Fort Sinquefield

Fort Sinquefield is located in Clarke County, Alabama. It was a defensive structure built during the Creek War of 1813-1814. The fort provided refuge for settlers against Creek Indian attacks. It was the site of the Fort Sinquefield Massacre on September 1, 1813, where several settlers were killed. The fort was significant in the conflict between settlers and Native Americans in the region.

There are no structures remaining. The site offers historical markers and interpretive signs detailing the events that took place there, including the Fort Sinquefield Massacre.

19. Fort Strother

Fort Strother is located near the Coosa River in Alabama. It was built by Andrew Jackson during the Creek War in 1813, served as a key military base for launching attacks against Creek forces. The fort provided shelter for troops and was used as a supply depot.

Little remains of the fort today, but there are some remnants and a historical marker you can visit.

20. Turner’s Fort

Turner’s Fort is located in Lowndes County, Alabama. It was a military outpost during the Creek War of 1836. It served as a defensive position and supply base for U.S. forces.

Today, it is recognized as a historical site with limited remnants of the fort and historical markers.

Final Thoughts

Visiting historical military forts with your kids will enhance their learning of the history of the area and the time period that they are studying. Attending the local museums, taking guided tours, and participating in live reenactments is an enriching experience for the whole family.