Cocopah Indian Tribe

For centuries, the Cocopah Indian Tribe, known as the River People, have lived and thrived along the lower Colorado River and delta. The Cocopah are one of seven descendant tribes from the greater Yuma language-speaking people who previously occupied these lands. While the Cocopah did not have written language, their history has been passed on orally from generation to generation as well as recorded in documents written by outside visitors.

The Cocopah Reservation, located in historic Yuma Valley along the Colorado River, comprises three noncontiguous bodies of land known as the North, West and East Reservations. Established in 1917, the tribe gained an additional 4,200 acres in 1985, and today, the Reservation comprises approximately 6,500 acres. Much of this land is leased as agricultural land to non-Indian farmers. Agriculture was, and still is, very important to the Cocopah people. Traditionally, the Cocopah adapted to the Colorado river's seasonal changes and relied on the lush riparian habitats near the river's edge for food. Grains, corn, beans and melons were grown in the river's floodplains. Log rafts were used to travel the waterways and collect wild wheat and shellfish in estuary waters. The Cocopah netted fish and collected shellfish in the delta, and hunted deer and small game in the mesquite forests.

As time progressed, towns and farms populated the West, and the construction of dams along the Colorado River slowed and eventually stopped the flow of water. Despite the ever-changing landscape and political environments, the generous and resilient Cocopah people have adapted while preserving their culture. Currently, about 1,000 tribal members live and work on or near the three reservations. In 1964, the Cocopah Indian Tribe founded its first Constitution and formed a five-person Tribal Council.

Today, the Cocopah people live a blend of traditional and modern lives. Tribal enterprises located on the East Reservation along Highway 95 include Cocopah Casino, Cocopah Resort & Conference Center, and Cocopah Korner. Farther south is Cocopah Rio Colorado Golf Course in the City of Somerton. The Cocopah Museum and gift shop are located near Tribal Headquarters on the West Reservation. On the North Reservation along the Colorado River is Cocopah RV & Golf Resort. The reservation offers easy access being just miles from two major Ports of Entry on the U.S.-Mexico Border, the Yuma International Airport and California.

Whatever your reason for visiting the Cocopah Reservation, you are sure to leave inspired and entertained. With the majestic Sonoran beauty of the region, golfing, gaming, shopping, and the opportunity to learn about Cocopah Indian culture, the reservation attracts many visitors.

For more information on the Cocopah Indian Tribe, contact us, or visit our website at www.cocopah.com.