Fort Clark was established in 1852 at Las Moras Springs and was active until World War II. Initially, the spring was a stopping place on the great Comanche Trail into Mexico as it was considered a lifeline for a multitude of cultures and wildlife; however, the government recognized the fort’s potential to control travel to El Paso and prevent attacks from the Comanches, Apaches and other tribes on either side of the Rio Grande. In 1947, Fort Clark was the calvary fort and home of the famed Black Seminole Indian Scouts, as well as every historic Buffalo Soldier regiment in the US Army.

Fort Clark Springs is the place to stay as it is now a 2,700 acre gated resort and it is in immaculate condition. There are rows of gorgeous limestone homes lining the fort’s former parade grounds where an American flag snapped into the breeze. In 2008, the post allowed buyers to purchase houses providing them an opportunity to live in a piece of history. There are numerous miles of nature and recreational trails, serene wildlife, an 18-hole golf course, the state’s third largest spring-fed pool that maintains a constant temperature of 69 degrees, historic buildings and a museum. Additionally, he pool was commissioned by the government as a horse straw as the US Army was not allowed to have a private pool.

Visiting the fort is free; however, there are no restraurants on the post. Additionally, the museum is only open from 1pm – 4pm and accepts donations. The museum is a the original guardhouse and the tour guide has a plethro of information, including wearing the attire of a cowboy to complete the persona.