Quartzsite, Arizona

Quartzsite, Arizona is a desert town with a cult following — especially among RVers, rockhounds, nomads, and snowbirds. On paper, it's a small blip in western Arizona… but for a few months every year, it becomes one of the most unique places in the country.

Quick Facts About Quartzsite, AZ

• Population (year-round): ~3,700
• Population (January–February): Up to 1 million due to RVers and seasonal visitors
• Location: Off I-10 near the California border (about 20 miles from the Colorado River)
• Best Time to Visit: Late fall through early spring (especially January)

Why It's Famous 1. The RV Capital of the World

Every winter, RVers from across the U.S. (and Canada) flock to Quartzsite to boondock in the desert.
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) offers vast areas for free or low-cost long-term camping.
You'll see everything from $3,000 vans to million-dollar motorhomes camped side by side.

2. The Quartzsite Shows

These are legendary.

• Quartzsite Sports, Vacation & RV Show (aka the "Big Tent"): The largest RV event in the country. Vendors, gear demos, RV tech, solar setups, and more.
• Gem & Mineral Shows: Quartzsite is a hub for rockhounds, with massive markets full of fossils, crystals, minerals, and handcrafted jewelry.
• Tyson Wells Market Center: An eclectic swap meet with everything from antiques to survival gear.

3. Boondocking Heaven

There are thousands of acres of BLM land for free camping (up to 14 days) or Long-Term Visitor Areas (LTVAs), which include access to dump stations, water, and trash for a small fee.
Expect a vibe of freedom and community — campfires, solar panels, music, stargazing, and rigs of all shapes and sizes.

4. The Community

You'll find everything from solo vanlifers and retired snowbirds to skoolie families and nomadic makers.
Informal "camp neighborhoods" pop up with potlucks, group hikes, gear swaps, and fire pit hangouts.
It's one of the most welcoming places for full-time travelers to connect.

5. Historical Oddities

Check out the Hi Jolly Monument, which honors Hadji Ali, a camel driver brought to the U.S. in the 1850s for a wild experiment with the U.S. Camel Corps.
The project failed, but Hi Jolly stayed and became a local legend.

Good to Know

• Stock up before arriving — Quartzsite has basics, but grocery stores and supplies are limited.
• Cell service varies; Starlink and boosters are popular.
• Winter nights can get cold. Summer heat is intense and best avoided.
• Be respectful of the land. Pack it in, pack it out, and avoid off-limits areas.