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Yakama Nation and
Fort Simcoe State Park
Yakama is the new spelling by a resolution.
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| Yakama Nation Cultural Heritage Center and
Museum. Quote from opening ceremony speech from 1979, "The museum is a story of survival, told in a positive manner. It reflects the Yakama's struggles to adapt and maintain their culture in a world that has drastically changed around them over the years." |
This trip continues from Bumping
Lake.
Once we reach Hwy 410, we turn east, descending from the
wooded
mountains
into the bountiful orchards and vineyards
of the Naches Valley enroute to Yakima.
First stop, the Yakama Nation Museum and Cultural Heritage
Center. From the distance we can see its colorful peaked roof
modeled after the ancestral homes.
Beautiful museum exhibits depict the lives and history of the tribes.
At the center of the museum is a reconstructed reed lodge
showing how families lived during the winter.
Many examples of colorful beadwork and cultural items.
The Yakama people welcome visitors in their large campground.
It's a huge campground, accommodating both large recreational
vehicles and tent campers. One can also rent an authentic teepee.
Camping fees are reasonable, and include use of a swimming pool,
Swedish-style sauna, exercise room, and hot tub.
There's also a jogging/biking/walking trail around the campground.
True luxury camping at its best. Call 1-800-874-3087.
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| Camping among the teepees in the campground tent area. |
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| Pool at campground. Great place to spend a hot summer day. |
It's only a short drive from the campground to
Toppenish,
famous for its artistic murals. Over 59 murals enhance the
outside walls of various downtown buildings.
Visitors come from afar to view them.
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| One of many murals in Toppenish. |
Later in the day we drive 25 miles through the reservation to
visit Fort Simcoe State Park.
