FALL RIDING AT FORT ROBINSON

RICH IN WESTERN HISTORY, FORT ROBINSON’S 20,000 ACRES IS FILLED WITH BEAUTIFUL BUTTES AND ROLLING HILLS, MAKING IT THE PERFECT FALL DESTINATION.

- KENT AND CHARLENE KRONE

Located in northwest Nebraska, Fort Robinson State Park (out doornebraska.gov/fortrobinson) is a horse-lovers paradise, offering nearly 22,000 acres of land to explore. Just west of the park is Soldier Creek Wilderness, which provides nearly 8,000 additional acres for trail riding, so you’re bound to have the experience of a lifetime no matter where you go. This unique region holds an uncommon diversity of plant and animal life, resulting in extraordinary, natural beauty.

Fort Robinson Inn and Lodge

Upon arrival, the first stop to be made is the Fort Robinson Inn and Lodge, formerly the 1909 enlisted men's barracks for the 8th and 12th cavalry. Here, you can check-in and secure a place for you and your horse. Plus, you can procure maps of Fort Robinson, trail maps of the surrounding area, and brochures on local history. If you choose to eat at the restaurant while you’re there, we highly recommend trying the bison items on the menu.

For overnight visits, you can stay in a renovated officer's quarters that date from 1874 to 1909. All of the “cabins” have a living room, bathrooms, bedrooms, and kitchens in them. Or if you prefer to stay in your living quarters, you can choose between a full-service RV park and a partial-service park. You also have the option to camp outdoors in the tent-camping section.

Ultimately, we decided to stay in the partial-service RV park because it was close to the mare barns where we stalled our horses, Jake and Cody.