Cocopah Indian Tribe

Just south of the city of Yuma, discover the Cocopah culture that has thrived for generations.

Originally known as the River People, the Cocopah Indian Tribe are descendants of ancient Yuman-speaking people who lived along the lower Colorado River for centuries. The Cocopah Indian Tribe continues to farm the fertile floodplains in the area along the Colorado River near the U.S. border with Mexico.

Tribal Enterprises

The Cocopah community is anchored by Cocopah Casino & Resort, an entertainment destination that features 500 modern slots plus blackjack tables and a bingo hall. Fuel up between games at Triple 7s Café for quick bites or The Artisan Grille for a sit-down meal. Or pull up a stool at River’s Edge Bar and watch sports or catch live music and entertainment at the Sunset Lounge. For family fun, the adjacent Wild River Family Entertainment Center keeps the kids engaged with a 24-lane bowling alley, laser tag arena and an arcade. Golfers enjoy the 18-holes Cocopah Bend Golf Course operated by the Cocopah Indian Tribe.

Culture on Display

At the Cocopah Museum & Cultural Center, visitors can learn about the history and culture of the proud river tribe. See a replica of traditional Cocopah dwellings, plus artifacts such as traditional clothing, pottery and jewelry. At the gift shop, visitors can purchase modern arts and crafts from tribal members. To reach the West Cocopah Reservation, drive through Somerton and pass through agricultural lands to reach the tribal community near the Colorado River. Open Tuesday through Saturday with guided tours available by appointment. The dance grounds on-site are used for tribal festivals open to the public.

Other Nearby Experiences

The Colorado River creates the border between Arizona and California. At the Colorado River State Historic Park in Yuma, visitors see how vital the waterway was to the area’s original inhabitants and how it influenced the development of the region over generations. See displays on the innovative siphon irrigation system, the Laguna Dam and the importance of area wetlands.