Apache County

Apache County is an administrative region in northeastern Arizona with diverse terrain including mountains, deserts, and forests. The area covers a large section of land with varying elevations and ecosystems throughout its extent.

The county was established in 1879 after being separated from the historic Yavapai County. Its name comes from the Apache peoples who traditionally lived in this region.

The region is home to large parts of the Navajo Nation and the Fort Apache Indian Reservation, where communities maintain their traditions in daily life and crafts. The presence of these peoples shapes how the place looks and feels locally.

The region is accessible via U.S. Route 191 and Interstate 40, which connect different towns and areas. Visitors should plan ahead as some parts are remote and roads can vary in condition.

The area holds the highest proportion of reservation land among all U.S. counties, with over two-thirds of its territory designated as reservations. This distinction makes it a key place for self-governance by Native American nations.

Location: Arizona

Inception: 1879

Capital city: St. Johns

Shares border with: San Juan County, Greenlee County, Graham County, McKinley County, Navajo County, Cibola County, Montezuma County, Catron County

Website: http://co.apache.az.us

GPS coordinates: 35.42389,-109.44250

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:36