Fort Bowie 1862 - 1894
General James Carleton ordered a post built in Apache Pass on July 27, 1862. The site was strategic because of Apache Spring. This post served as a base of operations for General Crook against Geronimo in Mexico. Geronimo's final surrender was nearby, and he was immediately taken here. After the end of hostilities with the Apache, Fort Bowie lost its usefulness.
The people running Fort Bowie now have done a very good job including information plaques along the whole route. I manage to include most of them in this video tour and they provide more information on the fort. Like anything else, this place is so much better in person, and is a must visit for anybody reading about the Apache wars of Arizona.
Feb 2021 - I probably spent 3 hours total there and was rushed once I got to the fort proper because of time. You might notice this. I would recommend arriving before noon and spending the whole day. It was windy all day and probably in the mid 60's. The haze I think was caused by farmers plowing fields miles away kicking up dust and being carried by the wind. Very unfortunate timing.
From Willcox expect an hour or more drive time to the fort. I could be wrong but I think those places are the nearest gas stations too, so make sure and top off before you leave the 10. I also wouldn't recommend this trip during the summer, unless rattlesnakes and the extreme sun and heat don't bother you.