Holding command over the Southern Plains, Fort Griffin served as one in a line of western defensive forts from 1867 to 1881. During the Indian Wars, Fort Griffin served as a base for Buffalo Soldiers from the 9th and 10th U.S. Cavalry and the 24th U.S. Infantry at various times. These soldiers used the fort as a resting point from which they could patrol the surrounding areas and pursue raiders. Several events take place at Fort Griffin, including the annual Living History Days in October that includes Buffalo Soldier reenactors.

Remnants of the fort remain today at Fort Griffin State Historic Site, a Texas Historical Commission property, which is also home to the Official State of Texas Longhorn Herd and offers camping, fishing, hiking, stargazing, and living history.

Among the fort's ruins are a mess hall, barracks, first sergeant’s quarters, bakery, powder magazine, and hand-dug well that are all deeply tied to Texas history. The campgrounds, located on the banks of the Clear Fork of the Brazos River, provide visitors with an opportunity to relax under large shade trees, enjoy the playground, catch catfish in the river, or hike nature trails connected to the campground. Due to the vast ranches surrounding the property, Fort Griffin has minimal light pollution. The result is an astronomer’s oasis with great skies for viewing constellations, planets, and galaxies at Fort Griffin’s monthly stargazing events.

Fort Griffin is a State Archeological Landmark and listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

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