History & Heritage
American Indian Tribal Lands
As far back as 12,000 years ago, indigenous cultures made their home in what, today, we affectionately call Arizona.
Long before the Wild West. Even before the extinction of saber-toothed cats and the mammoth. As far back as 12,000 years ago, indigenous cultures made their home in what, today, we affectionately call Arizona. These early inhabitants settled into villages throughout the diverse regions of Arizona, giving formation to tribes such as the Ancestral Puebloans, Hohokam, Mogollon, and Patayan people.
Today, 22 sovereign American Indian communities reside in Arizona, lending their unique spiritual, cultural, and economic richness to the state. Throughout Arizona, you can step into the past and experience up-close the artifacts and fascinating structures built and used by these tribes at a number of American Indian-operated museums and cultural centers.
For anyone visiting Arizona, the unique American Indian heritage and culture here is a must-see for getting a firsthand understanding of our state's special and important history.
MAKE THE BEST OF YOUR VISIT TO TRIBAL LANDS.
The opportunities to visit tribal lands and experience their cultures differ among the different American Indian communities. While many tribes, like the Navajo Nation and White Mountain Apache, welcome visitors for a more robust experience, others limit involvement to their commercial interests.
What to know before you go:
- Each tribe's land is a sovereign nation with its own government, laws, and rules for visitors.
- Many sacred areas, such as gravesites, are restricted and not open to non-tribal members.
- Alcohol isn't permitted or tolerated on tribal land, except in designated areas like casinos
For more helpful hints about visiting tribal lands, visit
Tribal Tips
Experience the Ak-Chin Indian Community's native culture in this large farming community 50 miles south of Phoenix, Arizona.
Experience the Cocopah Indian Tribe’s thriving culture along the Colorado river and Mexican border.
Take a trip to experience the diverse community of the Colorado River Indian Tribes in Arizona.
The Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation operates a top rated casino, We-Ko-Pa Resort and Golf Club, and the affordable Poco Diablo Resort in Sedona.
Located along the Colorado River, the Fort Mojave Indian Tribe offers gaming, boating, fishing, and quick access to nearby Lake Havasu, Lake...
Explore the Fort Yuma-Quechan Tribe's native culture along the beautiful Colorado River near Yuma, AZ.
Immerse yourself in the Gila River Indian Community, discover breathtaking artwork, and enjoy a day under the sun.
The Havasupai people live in Havasu Canyon. Visit the Havasupai Museum of Culture and enjoy the waterfalls of Havasu Canyon.
The Hopi people are internationally known for their artistry and each mesa village specializes in a different craftsman discipline. Visit the...
Hualapai Tribe's Grand Canyon West offers unparalleled views of the Grand Canyon’s west rim from hiking and biking trails, river rafting, and...
The Kaibab Band of Paiute Indians lives in northern Arizona, near natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon, Lake Powell, Glen Canyon, and Lake...
The Navajo Nation encompasses much of the Four Corners area, which includes the famous Monument Valley, Canyon de Chelly, and Antelope Canyon.
Explore the scenic lands and culture of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe near Tucson.
Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community
Located in the heart of Phoenix, experience the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community’s casino, golf, racecars, baseball, shopping,...
The San Carlos Apache Tribe is a family friendly community that provides entertainment for everyone, from gambling and golf to fishing and...
San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe
Known for their hand-woven baskets, the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe is close neighbors with the Navajo Nation and Hopi Tribe, which are...
Visit the Tohono O'odham Nation, featuring outdoor recreation and casinos, and learn about their culture in the lands they call home near Tucson...
With beautiful views of the Mazatzal Mountains and the Mogollon (MUG-ee'ahn) Rim in the White Mountains, you can enjoy camping, hunting and...
Enjoy a year-round outdoor paradise on the White Mountain Apache Tribal Lands in Arizona. You’ll find hiking, snow sports, rafting, fishing, and...
Nestled in the Verde Valley, the Yavapai-Apache Nation’s casino and hotel welcome visitors to an area filled with history, from Montezuma’s...
North of Phoenix, the Yavapai-Prescott Tribe's resort, casinos, business park, and shopping center means you'll have a fun and relaxing getaway...
The Zuni Pueblo is brimming with artists creating authentic works of art and where you will find genuine hospitality.



