The Timbisha Shoshone Tribe, a federally recognized Native American tribe, has profound historical and cultural connections to the rugged yet captivating landscape of Death Valley and its surrounding regions in present-day California and Nevada. As part of the larger Western Shoshone group, the Timbisha people have resided in this area for millennia, developing a distinctive way of life tailored to the desert environment. Renowned for their exceptional basket weaving skills, resourceful utilization of native flora, and deep spiritual affinity for the land, the Timbisha Shoshone have endured centuries of challenges, including European colonization and contemporary land disputes. Presently, the tribe continues to safeguard its language, traditions, and sovereignty while asserting its rights and maintaining a robust presence in its ancestral homeland. The name "Timbisha" means "rock paint," referring to the red ochre (hematite) found in the Black Mountains used for face paint in spiritual ceremonies.

The Timbisha Shoshone Tribe was federally recognized by the U.S. government in 1983. After decades of advocacy led by tribal elders such as Pauline Esteves and Barbara Durham.

In 1990, the tribal enrollment was recorded at 199 members.

In 2000, this historic act returned approximately 7,500 acres of ancestral land to the tribe, making Death Valley the first U.S. national park to establish a reservation within its boundaries.

TRIBAL COUNCIL

The Timbisha Shoshone Tribal Council assumes the role of the elected governing body of the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe, entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding tribal sovereignty, preserving cultural heritage, and charting the community’s future through responsible leadership and development. The Tribal Council diligently endeavors to ensure the well-being, rights, and self-determination of the Timbisha people.

The Council convenes regularly to address matters encompassing a diverse range of topics, including land use, economic development, and environmental stewardship. Additionally, it addresses health, housing, and education initiatives. Each council member is elected by the General Council, which comprises all eligible tribal members. Tribal Office is located in Bishop, Ca.

TRIBAL HISTORICAL PRESERVATION OFFICE

The Timbisha Shoshone Tribal Historical Preservation Officer (THPO) assumes a pivotal role in safeguarding the profound cultural heritage, sacred sites, and historical legacy of the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe. As a custodian of the tribe’s ancestral lands, the THPO is entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing the protection of traditional cultural properties, conducting research, and collaborating with federal, state, and local agencies to ensure compliance with historical preservation regulations. This position is instrumental in preserving the tribe’s oral histories, artifacts, and traditions while advocating for the recognition and protection of Timbisha Shoshone heritage. Through educational initiatives, community engagement, and policy enforcement, the THPO diligently works to preserve the cultural integrity of the Timbisha people for future generations.

FURNACE CREEK

In May 1936, the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and the National Park Service (NPS) signed a memorandum of agreement to establish a colony site for Timbisha Shosone located within the boundaries of the Death Valley National Monument. Currently, approximately 30 families reside here.

TIMBISHA SHOSHONE CAMPGROUND at DEATH VALLEY JUNCTION 

Located near Death Valley Junction/Shoshone, a newly established Timbisha Shoshone Campground offers tent sites equipped with amenities such as water and restrooms. This campground is situated separately from the National Park’s campgrounds, including Furnace Creek and Stovepipe Wells.  

Firewood available at this site, pay at the kiosk upon arrival. No power, no running water, no outdoor lighting. Available restroom building and picnic tables. Campsites are first come, first serve. As of mid-2024, the nightly rate for this campground is approximately $35.

TIMBISHA FREE RADIO – A VOICE FROM THE DESERT

KDVY 94.5 FM – Timbisha Free Radio is now broadcasting live from the Timbisha Shoshone Village in Death Valley National Park, offering a new voice for the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe and surrounding communities. While the station is still in its early stages, it is already on the air with limited programming—featuring music, community announcements, and cultural content that reflects the spirit and heritage of the Timbisha people.

As development continues, KDVY 94.5 FM is building toward a full programming schedule that will include tribal news, local storytelling, language preservation, youth features, and more. This is just the beginning of a platform dedicated to sharing the voices of the desert—by and for the community.