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Fort Beale Spring: A Desert Oasis with a Storied Past

Explore the historical Fort Beale Spring in Kingman, AZ: a desert oasis with Native American roots, military history, and natural beauty.

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Fort Beale Spring, near Kingman, Arizona, is a historical landmark with a rich history dating back centuries. Originally used by Native Americans, it later became a vital water source for travelers on the Beale Wagon Road and a military outpost during the Hualapai War. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of the past and enjoy the natural beauty of this desert oasis.

A brief summary to Fort Beale Spring

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (September to April) for the most comfortable hiking weather.
  • Bring water and wear appropriate footwear for walking on uneven terrain.
  • Take your time to read the historical markers and learn about the significance of the site.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Andy Devine Avenue (Route 66) in Kingman, follow US 93 north. Turn onto Fort Beale Drive and continue approximately 1.5 miles west. Trailhead parking is available on-site. Be aware that construction on a new traffic interchange at I-40 and US 93 may cause delays on Fort Beale Road until mid-2026. Check for updates before you go. Parking is free at the trailhead.

  • Public Transport

    From the Kingman Transit Center, catch the Route 1 bus towards Hualapai Mountain Road. Check the local bus schedule for the most up-to-date timings and possible route changes. The bus stop will likely require a walk of under 10 minutes to reach the Fort Beale Spring site. A single fare on Kingman's local bus service is typically around $1.25.

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Discover more about Fort Beale Spring

Fort Beale Spring, also known as Camp Beale Springs, is a significant historical site located near present-day Kingman, Arizona. The spring served as a crucial water source for indigenous peoples for centuries before Lieutenant Edward Beale passed through the area in the 1850s, establishing a wagon road along the 35th parallel. Beale named the springs Bishop's Springs after his colleague who discovered them. In 1865, Beale Spring became a stop on the toll road from Prescott to Hardyville (now Bullhead City). During the Hualapai War (1866-1870), it served as a temporary army outpost. In 1871, Camp Beale Springs was officially established by Company F, 12th U.S. Infantry, to protect travel routes during Indian unrest. The camp consisted of 12 adobe buildings and was garrisoned by detachments from Fort Whipple. In January 1873, the Beale Springs Indian Agency was established at the camp as a reservation for the Hualapai Indians. However, the camp was closed in April 1874, and the Hualapai were forced to relocate to the Colorado River Indian Tribes reservation at La Paz. Despite this, many Hualapai returned to their original lands within two years. After 1874, the spring once again became a way station on the toll road and remained active into the 20th century. It also became a water source for the growing town of Kingman. A water reservoir was constructed there, parts of which are still standing today. Today, Fort Beale Spring offers visitors a glimpse into the past. A short walking trail loops through the historical site, passing by the natural spring and the foundations of old buildings. It's a place where you can appreciate the quiet atmosphere and reflect on the area's rich history.

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