San Carlos, AZ

San Carlos, Arizona, is a Native American community located in Gila County, in the eastern part of the state. It is home to the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation, which covers approximately 1.8 million acres.

The Apache people have a long and rich history in the region. They have inhabited the area for centuries and have a strong connection to the land. Despite facing numerous challenges, including colonization and forced assimilation, the Apache people have maintained their cultural traditions and continue to thrive in San Carlos today.

The history of San Carlos is closely tied to the establishment of the San Carlos Apache Reservation. In the mid-19th century, as settlers moved westward across the United States, conflicts between Native American tribes and the US government increased. The Apache people were among those forced to relocate from their ancestral lands.

In 1872, the US government established the San Carlos Apache Reservation. However, the Apache people faced many hardships during this time, including fighting against encroaching settlers and the US military. The infamous Indian Wars of the late 19th century heavily impacted the Apache people, as they were forced to defend their land and way of life.

During the early 20th century, the San Carlos Apache Reservation saw some improvements. The construction of the San Carlos Irrigation Project brought water to the reservation, enabling the Apache people to engage in agriculture and develop sustainable farming practices. This development greatly contributed to the tribe's economic stability.

In recent decades, the San Carlos Apache Tribe has focused on economic diversification and self-sufficiency. They have developed tourism initiatives, such as casinos and cultural attractions, to generate income and provide employment opportunities for tribal members.

San Carlos remains an important cultural and economic center for the Apache people, preserving their traditions, language, and heritage. The tribe takes pride in its rich history and continues to work towards a brighter future for its community.

Apache Gold Casino Resort

A popular destination for gambling and entertainment, featuring over 600 slot machines, blackjack tables, live poker games, and a variety of restaurants and bars.

Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive

A breathtaking drive through the picturesque Salt River Canyon, offering stunning views of towering cliffs, rocky gorges, and the pristine Salt River.

San Carlos Apache Cultural Center

A museum and cultural center dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich heritage and history of the San Carlos Apache Tribe, with exhibits showcasing traditional crafts, artifacts, and art.

Coolidge Dam

Located nearby, Coolidge Dam offers a scenic spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, with opportunities for fishing, boating, camping, and hiking.

Aravaipa Creek

A beautiful and natural oasis, Aravaipa Creek offers activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, and creek exploration, with opportunities to spot various bird species, deer, javelinas, and other desert wildlife.

East Clear Creek

Another outdoor attraction near San Carlos, East Clear Creek is a pristine waterway surrounded by stunning canyon walls, offering swimming, fishing, and camping opportunities.

Apache Lake

A scenic reservoir located in the Tonto National Forest, Apache Lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and water sports, with its picturesque views and serene atmosphere.

San Carlos Lake

A large reservoir renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, San Carlos Lake is home to various fish species such as bass, crappie, and catfish. Visitors can also enjoy water skiing, jet skiing, and camping along its shores.

Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park

Located in Globe, Arizona, Besh-Ba-Gowah is an ancient Salado pueblo and an archaeological park. Visitors can explore the ruins, learn about the ancient lifestyle, and view artifacts found on site.

Cobre Valley Center for the Arts

Situated in Globe, this art center offers rotating exhibits, live performances, and various artistic programs, providing a taste of local art and culture.

The climate in San Carlos, AZ is classified as a desert climate. It is characterized by hot summers, mild winters, and low levels of rainfall throughout the year.

Summers in San Carlos are very hot, with average daytime temperatures reaching well above 100°F (38°C). The highest temperatures are usually experienced in June, July, and August. It is not uncommon for the temperature to exceed 110°F (43°C) during these months. The nights provide some relief, with temperatures dropping to the 70s°F (20s°C).

Winters in San Carlos are mild and generally pleasant. December and January are the coldest months, with average daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-60s°F (18-20°C) to the mid-70s°F (23-24°C). Nighttime temperatures can drop into the mid-30s°F (2-3°C), but frost and freezing temperatures are rare.

Precipitation in San Carlos is quite low, with an average annual rainfall of about 9 inches (229 mm). The rainy season typically occurs during the monsoon season, which runs from July to September. Thunderstorms are common during this time, bringing sporadic heavy rain, lightning, and occasional flash floods. The rest of the year tends to be dry, with little to no rainfall.

San Carlos also experiences high levels of sunshine throughout the year, with over 300 days of clear skies. The low humidity in the area adds to the aridity of the climate.

Overall, the climate of San Carlos, AZ is hot and dry, with very hot summers, mild winters, low rainfall, and abundant sunshine.

San Carlos, Arizona is a small community located within the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation in southeastern Arizona. While it is not traditionally divided into distinct neighborhoods, there are areas within the community that have distinctive characteristics. Here are some notable areas in or around San Carlos:

San Carlos Town

This is the main area within San Carlos, where you'll find the tribal government buildings, schools, health center, and other essential services. It is also the center of community life, with cultural events, powwows, and social gatherings often taking place here.

Peridot

Located a few miles northwest of San Carlos, Peridot is a small community known for its agricultural activities. Many residents in Peridot are involved in farming and ranching, with vast agricultural fields and livestock operations found in the area.

Bylas

Situated about 10 miles southeast of San Carlos, Bylas is another community within the San Carlos Apache Reservation. It has a larger population than San Carlos and offers more amenities like stores, restaurants, and gas stations. Bylas is also home to the Eastern Arizona College San Carlos Center, providing educational opportunities to nearby residents.

Coolidge Dam

Just northeast of San Carlos, Coolidge Dam and the surrounding area offer beautiful scenic views. The dam, controlled by the Bureau of Reclamation, stores water from the Gila River and is an important source of irrigation for the region's farms and ranches.

Canyon Creek

Located to the east of San Carlos, Canyon Creek is known for its hiking trails and recreational activities. Tourists and locals often visit to enjoy nature, camping, fishing, and exploring the picturesque landscapes found within the area.

These are just a few areas of note in and around San Carlos. Keep in mind that the San Carlos Apache Reservation is primarily a rural area, and the community is more spread out with scattered residential areas rather than distinct neighborhoods.