The Verde River is a unique and important resource in Arizona. In a southwestern state where perennial flowing water is rare, the riparian oasis of the Verde River stands in stark contrast to the arid uplands through which it meanders. Indeed, Verde is the Spanish term for the color "green." Aboriginal cultures have been present in the area since at least 12,000 BC; Anglos began to settle the region in 1865. The Verde River continues to serve as a magnet for humans. Many people visit the Verde for its outstanding recreational opportunities including boating, hunting, fishing, birding, hiking, picnicking and photography. The Verde River is situated in central Arizona. It heads at Sullivan Lake in the Big Chino Valley (south of Paulden) in Yavapai County, and flows generally south for 170 miles through private, state, tribal and National Forest System lands to the confluence with the Salt River. The cities of Cottonwood, Clarkdale and Camp Verde are located along the river and constitute the primary population centers.