An integral part of the history of Nevada and the American West, Fort Churchill was built in 1860 to provide protection for early settlers and westbound emigrants and guard the Pony Express and telegraph lines. Today the ruins are preserved in a state of arrested decay within Fort Churchill State Historic Park, and visitors can walk designated trails to observe the ruins. The park also includes the renovated Buckland Station, an important way station in the 1800s for pioneer travelers on the Overland Route. Situated along the Carson River, the park is an idyllic place for camping, hiking, bird watching and canoeing.