Washoe Tribe Location
Connecting our tribal communities across Nevada and California to our ancestral heartland
Washoe Tribe of Nevada On-Reservation Communities
The Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California exercises sovereignty over tribal lands that straddle the border between the two states. The ancestral territory of the Washoe Tribe spans over 10,000 square miles, rooted deeply in the Great Basin and eastern Sierra slopes. Today, the Washoe Tribe owns over 64,300 acres in various parcels, securing a permanent home for tribal members while maintaining stewardship over natural resources. This deep connection to the land endures today through the Tribe's organized communities and continued environmental leadership.
Woodfords
Situated on the California side of the border in Alpine County, Woodfords Community is the only Washoe community in California. It houses the Woodfords Indian Education Center and serves as a vital focal point for cultural preservation, youth recreation, and local community gatherings.
Community infoOff-Reservation Communities of the Washoe People
Beyond the primary residential communities, Washoe tribal lands encompass significant agricultural, cultural, and environmental holdings across Nevada and California. The Washoe Tribe are the original inhabitants of the Lake Tahoe Basin, and Lake Tahoe is considered a spiritual and geographic heart of Washoe lands. Historical records document over 10,000 years of continuous history in the region, where ancestral hunting grounds, pine nut gathering sites, and sacred waters connect tribal families across boundaries.
Carson Colony
Carson Colony was established in 1917 and spans 16 acres within the city limits of Carson City, Nevada. Initially home to about 275 residents, it provides residential areas, health services, and localized support for tribal members living in the urban capital district.
Dresslerville
Located near Gardnerville, Nevada, Dresslerville is the largest Washoe community to date. It serves as a central hub for tribal events, administrative operations, and senior care programs in the heart of the Carson Valley.
Stewart
Established in 1890 and covering 2,960 acres south of Carson City, Stewart Community features historic stone buildings and wide reservation grounds. The site is widely known because the Stewart Indian School operated from 1890 to 1980 on these grounds, and today, the area hosts major tribal events and cultural education programs.
Visit our community facilities and tribal offices
The Washoe Tribe maintains community centers dedicated to cultural preservation, public health, and local administration across every settlement. Whether seeking government services, attending public events, or learning about our local history, our doors remain open to serve our citizens and engage with neighboring communities. Contact our headquarters in Gardnerville to schedule visits or connect with specific department offices.
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