As the oldest community in the valley, the Town has a unique history, dating back to the early 1860′s. Settlers first began migrating into the Verde Valley because of the mining industry. The first military establishment was a temporary post overlooking the farms at West Clear Creek.
- In 1865, the next post, Camp Lincoln was established.
- In 1865 the name was changed to Camp Verde.
- The post was moved to its present day site in 1871, due to the onset of a malaria outbreak.
- In 1878, the name was changed to Fort Verde to signify permanence.
- The fort was occupied from 1871-1891 with the post officially closing in April of 1890.
Over the years the community recognized the value of protecting and preserving this historic site, which is what prompted a request that it be established as a Historic State park, in 1970. Today, visitors can tour the four remaining buildings, one of which is a museum with exhibits and displays that portray life on the frontier.
The Verde Historical Society is also home to the Camp Verde Visitor Center. The Visitor Center and the adjacent museum are open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come to learn about the history of Camp Verde and what Camp Verde has to offer.