Modern Day Fort McDowell
The people of Fort McDowell have surmounted many obstacles
to return to and keep their land. They have developed several
industries, including farming, sand and gravel operations, a gas station
and Fort McDowell Adventures. What turned the corner for them
economically was a bingo hall, which became a casino. A crisis came
in 1992 when the FBI came to confiscate their slot machines. The
tribe prevented their removal by barricading exits with large trucks
and equipment. Their stand resulted in the passage of Proposition
202 in 2002, assuring that gaming can continue. Since then, the tribe
has built the acclaimed We-Ko-Pa Golf Club, the
Fort McDowell Radisson Resort, and an RV park.
They are also investing in businesses outside of
the reservation, assuring a strong future for the
Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation.
Water Tamers - Canals and Dams
Early settlers utilized the canals of ancient
Hohokam Indians. Floods, drought and conflicts over water rights
eventually led to the development of a water storage system, with
Roosevelt and Granite Reef dams as key components. Roosevelt
Dam was built on the Salt River, just below its confluence with Tonto
Creek. Granite Reef Dam was built about 50 miles downriver, directly
below the confluence of the Verde and Salt Rivers. From here, water
is diverted into canals that transport water throughout the Phoenix
area. The rapidly growing population of Arizona soon required more
water, and the CAP Canal was built to bring water from the Colorado
River to Fountain Hills and other communities.
Fountain Hills - A Community Of Art Lovers
Fountain Hills has become known as an artist’s community.
Sculptures, water features and other works of art adorn the Community
Center, the Avenue of the Fountains and public places. Twice a year,
The Great Fair and the Fountain Festival of Arts and Crafts attract
hundreds of thousands of art lovers to the downtown area. Galleries
and small shops make it easy for shoppers to find their own art year
round. And, the award-winning Fountain Hills Community Theater is
one of Arizona’s leading performing arts organizations.
Fun At Fort McDowell
Fort McDowell has become widely known for its casino and its
live entertainment. In addition, its visitors can enjoy 36 holes of golf
at the acclaimed We-Ko-Pa Golf Club. Fort McDowell Adventures,
an Old West style recreation facility, offers horseback rides, Jeep
rides, cowboy cook-outs and other outdoor fun. Lodging ranges from
the luxurious Radisson Resort to the state-of-the-art Eagle View RV
Resort. Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation has two annual celebrations
commemorating milestones in their history: Sovereignty Day and
Orme Dam Days. A Native American Arts Festival is held in March.
Fountain Hills and Fort McDowell offer every key component a
top resort community can boast – from spas and shopping to golf;
from gaming and entertainment, to arts and culture; from outdoor
recreation to dining and relaxing in the scenic beauty of Vista Valley,
on the wild side of Arizona.
Fountain Hills/Fort McDowell Official Visitors Guide •
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