Reconstructed 1804 winter encampment of the Lewis and Clark Expedition featuring interpretive exhibits, guided tours, and riverside trails.

General Information

Hours:

April – September: Tue – Sun, 10 AM – 5 PM
Closed October – March

Fees:

Adults: $8
Students (K–College): $5
Children under 5 and members: Free

Pet Policy:

Leashed dogs are welcome inside the visitor center

Seasons:

Spring through early fall

Location:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/6ZzZzZzZzZzZzZzZ9

Website:

history.nd.gov

How to Get There

From Bismarck, ND (40 mi): Take US-83 N to Washburn, then turn left onto 28th Ave SW and follow signs to the Fort Mandan Visitor Center.

Overview

The Fort Mandan State Historic Site commemorates the winter encampment of the Lewis and Clark Expedition during 1804–1805. Located near Washburn, North Dakota, the site features a full-scale reconstruction of the original fort, complete with furnished quarters and interpretive displays. It was here that the Corps of Discovery met Sacagawea and her husband Toussaint Charbonneau, who would become vital members of the expedition. The visitor center offers engaging exhibits, a museum store, and a children’s discovery area.

Open seasonally from spring through early fall, Fort Mandan provides guided tours and educational programs that bring early American exploration to life. The surrounding grounds include picnic areas, walking trails, and the Seaman Overlook—a tribute to Lewis’s Newfoundland dog. With its blend of history, nature, and family-friendly amenities, Fort Mandan is a must-see destination for those tracing the footsteps of America’s early explorers.

This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the Fort Mandan State Historic Site, which are released under the ".