Nez Perce Wallowa Homeland

About Us

The visitor center is available at a moment's notice for group visits, and although the museum is small, the informative staff will make sure it is a educational outing for learners of all ages. The staff at Nez Perce Wallowa Homeland participates in local programs such as Wallowa Elementary Rendezvous, Wallowa Resources’ Watershed Festival, Chief Joseph Summer Camp and Eastern Oregon University student mentorship. In addition, several times each year, artisans teach native craft skills including basketry, weaving, beading, carving and plant identification. Workshops are usually free of charge.

The Homeland is open sunrise to sunset every day of the year, this 320 acre piece of the Nez Perce Wallowa Homeland is a beautiful spot to explore. The site includes lush Wallowa River frontage and bottomland, rim rock bluffs, and grassy uplands - with spectacular views of the mountains and traditional Nez Perce summer camping and grazing areas.

The Tamkaliks Celebration in July, at the Homeland becomes a place of reunion for descendants of the original inhabitants of waláwa, the Wallowa country. Year after year, participants enjoy three days of dancing and drumming, culminating in a walasit service and Friendship feast. Descendants, locals, and visitors attend together. There are many ways to be involved, contribute, and enjoy. Camping and dancer registration is free. Winners and drums are paid in cash. Big ticket raffle items include a buffalo hide and a Pendleton blanket each year. Food and craft vendors are plentiful.