In February 1881, the 11th Territorial Legislature established Gila County. The county was created by the removal of portions of Maricopa and Pinal Counties. Later, in 1889 Gila County was enlarged.
There was still another change in the county's size. The Globe Mining District was originally a part of the San Carlos Indian Lands. However, when significant mineral deposits were found in the district, an Executive Order was signed removing the land from the Indian Lands and placing it in Gila County. Today, the county covers 4,752 square miles. Globe was the first and only county seat in the history of Gila County.

Gila County includes portions of both the San Carlos and Fort Apache Indian Lands and the part of the Tonto National Forest. It also includes all of the Tonto Apache Indian Lands. A combination of desert landscapes and mountain ranges cover the county.

Visitors will find many attractions. The Tonto National Monument was established in 1907. The monument preserves two abandoned Indian ruins dating back to 1200 A.D. Roosevelt Lake was created by Roosevelt Dam and is the largest of the four Salt River Lakes. The lake offers camping, water skiing, boating and fishing. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is the world's largest natural travertine bridge. The bridge measures 400 feet and spans a 150 wide canyon. There are trails down to the base of the bridge that offer visitors terrific views. The Besh-Be-Gowah Indian Ruins are located near Globe. The Salado Indians built over 200 rooms to house their community, during the 14th century. The ruins have been reconstructed to show what life was like five hundred years ago.

This county has charm and beauty. It is a place many travel to enjoy nature