The Fort Douglas Military Museum officially became Utah’s state military museum on March 24, 2020 when Governor Gary R. Herbert signed H.B. 44 into law (Utah Code). H.B. 44 was sponsored by Representative Paul Ray (Clearfield-R) and Senator Todd Weiler (Woods Cross-R).

Fort Douglas was established in October 1862 during the American Civil War. Originally called Camp Douglas, Fort Douglas was strategically located east of Salt Lake City to protect the overland mail routes and observe local activities.

The Fort Douglas Military Museum, situated in historic barracks, provides a comprehensive overview of Utah’s military history. The museum’s collection includes uniforms, weaponry, and personal accounts of service members, and spans from the fort’s establishment to the present day. Visitors can also view outdoor exhibits of artillery, helicopters, and military vehicles, offering insight into the evolution of military technology. Exploring Fort Douglas provides a unique opportunity to learn about the military’s significant impact on both Utah and the United States.

In 2026, Fort Douglas, which is currently on the campus of the University of Utah, will move its Army Reserve operations to a site next to Camp Williams in Bluffdale, Utah. The Fort Douglas Military Museum and Cemetery will remain on the University of Utah campus.