Day trip: Fort is also home to Texas longhorn herd

Place: Fort Griffin State Historic Site

Location: 1701 North U.S. Hwy 283 Albany, Texas is about 296 miles or 5 hours and 10 minutes from base.

What is it?: Fort Griffin served as a western defensive forts from 1867 to 1881.

What can people see here?: Ruins of the mess hall, barracks, first sergeant’s quarters, a bakery, and a hand-dug well. Also the fort is the home to the official state Texas longhorn herd. People can go camping, fishing, hiking and stargazing.

What ages is this best suited for?: All ages.

What are the admission prices?: Adults $3, Children 6-18, students with ID and active military $3, Children 5 and under are free.

Hours of operation?: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily. From Memorial Day through Labor Day the fort is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Are there any special events coming up?: Buffalo Soldiers Heritage month is through July 31. American Indian Scouts month is from Aug. 1-31

Information: 325-762-2492 or e-mail ft-griffin@thc.state.tx.us www.visitfortgriffin.com/index.aspx?page=7