Fort Dilts

Fort Dilts is a historic site near Rhame preserving the remains of an original sod fortification with a circular layout measuring about 300 feet across. The grounds display visible wagon ruts, grave markers, and interpretive information that help visitors understand the physical layout and construction of the compound.

The fort was built by miners and soldiers in September 1864 during armed conflict with Hunkpapa Sioux warriors. This construction represents a critical moment in the history of American expansion and settlement in the northern Great Plains.

The site tells the story of how settlers and Native Americans shared and competed for this land during a transformative period. What remains visible reflects the daily reality of those tense and difficult times.

The site is located about 8 miles northwest of Rhame and offers free access to visitors. Interpretive signs are positioned throughout to guide your understanding of the remains and their historical context.

The original sod walls survive at their original height of about 6.5 feet in places, making this one of the more intact examples of such frontier construction. This preservation allows visitors to see the actual defensive structure built by those who occupied the site over 150 years ago.