Quartzsite, Arizona: The World's Biggest Boondocking Gathering

Quartzsite, Arizona has a permanent population of about 3,500 people. In January, that number swells past a million. The reason: the Sonoran Desert surrounding this tiny town is some of the most accessible, most forgiving BLM land in America.

The Long-Term Visitor Area (LTVA)

The BLM operates several LTVAs around Quartzsite where you can camp for an entire season for $180 — less than the cost of four nights at a hookup campground. The La Posa LTVA is the most popular, with trash service and a dump station included.

Free Areas

Outside the LTVAs, most BLM land around Quartzsite allows free camping for up to 14 days. The Hi Jolly area north of town is traditionally where the free campers congregate during the big shows in January.

The Shows

The Quartzsite Sports, Vacation & RV Show runs mid-January. The larger "Big Tent" show follows. Thousands of vendors sell everything from crystals to solar panels to handmade quilts. Even if you're not buying, it's worth attending once.

Practical Notes

• Best time: January for the social scene; December or February for more solitude
• Cell service: surprisingly good — Verizon and AT&T both have strong coverage
• Water: available at the BLM Roadrunner area and several in-town stations
• Dump stations: multiple options in town, ~$10–15
• Summer: avoid — temperatures regularly exceed 115°F

Quartzsite is a rite of passage for serious boondockers. The community is welcoming, the sunsets are spectacular, and the price is right.