Fort Grant

Fort Grant is a former military fortification now operating as a prison facility with multiple security levels for male inmates, located on the southwestern slope of Mount Graham. The complex encompasses several buildings dating from its military era that have been expanded over the decades.

The fort was established in 1872 and named after President Ulysses S. Grant, playing a key role in military control of the region during the Apache Wars. In 1973, the installation was converted into a state prison and has served as a correctional facility ever since.

The fort preserves memories of its military past through surviving adobe buildings that remind visitors of the conflicts between U.S. forces and Apache peoples. These structures tell the story of a time when the site served as an important outpost.

The facility is accessible via State Route 266, though access is restricted for security reasons and managed by the Arizona Department of Corrections. Visitors should know that touring is possible but requires advance arrangement and is subject to special rules.

Edgar Rice Burroughs, creator of Tarzan, served at the fort in 1896 before receiving a medical discharge from military service. This stay occurred when the future author was still at the beginning of his career.