THE "TONTO APACHE TRIBE" has inhabited this area since long before Payson existed. A hardy and determined group of people who refused to be driven out in the classic Indian Wars of the 1800's, the Tonto Apaches, under the guidance of Chief Milton Campbell, worked hard to acquire the present reservation land in the 1970's.

The Tonto Apaches have long strived to retain their proud heritage while educating themselves and working to improve living conditions and opportunities on the reservation.

With the construction and opening of the Mazatzal Hotel & Casino, the Tonto Apaches have found themselves in a position to greatly improve their quality of life, school, health and business opportunities, and to contribute significantly to charitable causes in Payson and the surrounding Arizona Rim Country area.