Fort RiceFort Rice at a Glance
About Fort Rice
Fort Rice was a U.S. Army frontier post founded in 1864 on the Missouri River in what was then Dakota Territory to provide a military presence during the Plains Indian conflicts. The site is known for its role in mid-19th-century military campaigns in the region.
Visitors to the area encounter the fort’s archaeological remains, interpretive markers and a nearby cemetery that document the soldiers and activities associated with the post. The location offers insight into military logistics and frontier life in the 1860s.
Established in 1864, Fort Rice served as a supply and operations base for Army expeditions on the northern plains and as a regional garrison for troops during a period of sustained conflict and settlement. The fort’s active use declined later in the 19th century as the frontier moved westward.
The fort sits on the Missouri River in central North Dakota; the original post location is documented by historical records and local interpretation for visitors to the region.
- Founding date: The fort was established in 1864 by the U.S. Army on the Missouri River in what was then Dakota Territory to support military operations during the Plains Indian conflicts.
- Operational role: It served as a regional military base during the 1860s and later declined in strategic importance as frontier conditions changed.
What to See#
- Fort site remains: The remnants of the military post including foundations and artefact scatters at the original fort footprint, interpreted for visitors and researchers.
- Cemetery and markers: A nearby cemetery and commemorative markers that record the names and service of soldiers stationed at the post.
Best Time to Visit Fort Rice
Best visited late spring through early autumn for milder weather and easier access.
Weather & Climate near Fort Rice
Fort Rice's climate is classified as Hot-Summer Continental - Hot-Summer Continental climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -18°C to 30°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | -18° - -7° | -20° | 9 mm | - | - | 4.8 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | -14° - -2° | -15° | 10 mm | - | - | 4.8 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | -8° - 4° | -7° | 20 mm | - | - | 5.0 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | -1° - 13° | 3° | 39 mm | - | - | 5.2 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 6° - 21° | 13° | 56 mm | - | - | 5.2 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 12° - 26° | 19° | 70 mm | - | - | 4.6 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 14° - 30° | 22° | 61 mm | - | - | 4.2 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 13° - 30° | 21° | 47 mm | - | - | 4.3 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 8° - 23° | 15° | 40 mm | - | - | 4.6 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 1° - 16° | 5° | 32 mm | - | - | 4.8 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | -7° - 4° | -7° | 13 mm | - | - | 4.7 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | -15° - -3° | -16° | 9 mm | - | - | 4.7 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Fort Rice
Located in central North Dakota along the Missouri River; reach via regional roads from Bismarck or nearby towns. Local signage and historical markers indicate the site.
Tips for Visiting Fort Rice
- River levels can rise seasonally; check conditions before attempting canoe or boat access.
- Nearby interpretive centres provide context on relations between the U.S. Army and Native nations in the 19th century.
- Wear insect repellent during summer months - mosquitoes are common near the river.