The Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians are Chemehuevi people, part of a culture that spans the Great Basin and the Eastern Coachella Valley. Their traditional lands once covered parts of California, Utah, Arizona, and Southern Nevada. In their language, they call themselves Nüwüwü, meaning “The People.” The Tribe honors its Desert Cahuilla, Luiseño and Southern Paiute roots and these cultures continue to thrive in the desert today.

The Tribe has two main areas near Coachella and Twentynine Palms, both of which are close to Joshua Tree National Park. They are a major employer in the region, running Spotlight 29 Casino near Coachella and Tortoise Rock Casino near Twentynine Palms. The Tribe works closely with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to protect desert plants and wildlife, including the desert tortoise, a key cultural symbol.

Tortoise Rock Casino, owned and run by the Tribe, is just south of Twentynine Palms’ town center. Opened in 2014, it was designed to fit naturally into the rocky desert landscape. The casino’s name honors the endangered desert tortoise, a symbol of strength in the Mojave Desert. The casino has over 400 slot machines, table games, live entertainment and a relaxed, friendly vibe that reflects the desert culture. It also offers dining and drinks at the Oasis Grille and Shelly’s Lounge. A large desert tortoise sculpture at the entrance highlights the Tribe’s deep connection to this iconic desert creature.