Tohono O’odham Nation

The Tohono O'odham Nation is a federally-recognized tribe that includes approximately 28,000 members occupying tribal lands in Southwestern Arizona. The Nation is the second largest reservations in Arizona in both population and geographical size, with a land base of 2.8 million acres and 4,460 square miles, approximately the size of the State of Connecticut.

In 1986 the Nation adopted a new constitution and changed its name from the Papago Tribe to the Tohono O'odham Nation.

Today's Tohono O'odham who reside on reservation land live on one of the four separate pieces of land that make up the Tohono O'odham Nation. These pieces of land are the "main" reservation, Florence Village, San Xavier and San Lucy. There are also O'odham who live in Mexico.

Things to Do

Desert Diamond Casino has 3 locations; Tucson, Sahuarita and Why have the latest slot machines. Tucson and Sahuarito also have blackjack, a poker room, keno and live entertainment.

Kitt Peak National Observatory, located in the Quinlin Mountains, was founded in 1958 and is home to over 25 research telescopes which make it the worlds largest working observatory. Free and paid tours daily, star gazing by reservation only. Link to page

San Xavier del Bac Mission is described as the "White Dove of the Desert", located 9 miles south of downtown Tucson. The mission was founded by Father Eusebio Franciso Kino in 1692 and has been acclaimed as the finest example of mission architecure in the USA. Link to page

Tohono O'odham Nation Cultural Center & Museum promotes understanding and respect of O'odham himdag (culture) through collections, exhibitions, educational programs and public outreach. The museum also features a gift shop, restaurant and tours.

Annual Events

Annual Rodeo & Fair
Location: Sells
Date: February, first weekend
Information: (520) 383-2588

Wa:k Pow Wow
Location: San Xavier Mission
Date: March, second weekend
Informaton: (520) 573-4000

San Xavier Mission Indian Market
Location: Mission Plaza
Date: Thanksgiving weekend
Information: (520) 573-4029

Where to Stay

Desert Diamond Casino & Hotel located only minutes from the Tucson International Airport. This Native American and Southwestern influenced hotel and casino boasts of rich bold desert colors rising out of the Sonora Desert. For leisure and convenience the hotel offers a heated outdoor pool, jetted hydro-spa, patio seating with a fire pit, exercise facilities, coffee bar and lounge.

Hickiwan Trails RV Park has 95 full hook ups, Wi-Fi, clubhouse and on-site laundromat.

Location and Nearby Communities

Location:

The Tohono O'odham Nation incorporates the San Xavier Reservation located south of Tucson along Interstate 19. Florence Village is located near the City of Florence.

Nearby Communities: