Native American Tribes, History and Attractions in Mesa Arizona | Visit Mesa

Fort McDowell Nation

Adjacent to Mesa in the northeast Valley you will find the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation.

This treasured community is a 40-square mile reservation representing the ancestral territory of the once nomadic Yavapai Tribe. Flowing through the reservation is the Verde River, whose calm waters serve as the life source for the surrounding lush desert vegetation, not to mention Fort McDowell Farm.

The Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation is home to several unique tourist offerings within close proximity of Mesa's borders. To learn more about the nation and their many enterprises, visit www.ftmcdowell.org.

Fort McDowell Adventures: For some of the most authentic Wild West experiences in Arizona, go to Fort McDowell Adventures. Situated in the middle of the Sonoran Desert, this premier outdoor activity and event venue can accommodate groups from 10 to 2,000. The on-site venue, La Puesta del Sol, is perfect for a sit-down event offering an incredible Southwestern-inspired backdrop. Or, gather up the greenhorns in your group and set out for the trail. Cattle drives and horseback riding tours are a specialty there.

We-Ko-Pa Golf Club: Developed by the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, We-Ko-Pa, Yavapai for "Four Peaks", is a daily fee golf facility that consists of two spectacular 18-hole layouts that are certain to challenge and inspire golfers of all levels. In addition to the two championship golf courses, there is a world-class practice facility to hone all aspects of your game and a full service clubhouse with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and of the Sonoran Desert. We-Ko-Pa Golf Club is consistently ranked as one of the best, top 100 modern courses in Arizona byGolfweek magazine. The club features a full-service restaurant, bar and expansive patio.

We-Ko-Pa Casino: Is the closest gaming facility to Mesa. In addition to slots, the casino offers Keno, Bingo, Black Jack and a large card room for tournament-style play. Whether you favor the sheer thrill of spinning reels or the extraordinary action of blackjack and more, a “wow” kind of experience awaits. Discover Arizona’s greatest gaming floor, showcasing 166,000 square-feet of pure excitement.