Dispersed camping near Quartzsite, Arizona centers primarily around seven major Bureau of Land Management areas that accommodate thousands of winter visitors annually. Located in the Sonoran Desert at approximately 879 feet elevation, the area features rocky desert terrain with sparse vegetation dominated by creosote bush, ocotillo and scattered saguaro cacti. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-70°F with summer highs regularly exceeding 100°F.
What to do
Explore Quinn Pass trail system: Access rugged 4WD trails from Plomosa Road camping area that lead to historic mining sites. "I've camped in the Polmosa Rd. BLM area several times during the past three years... We stayed between the nudist area and family... We spent a few days the first week of January 2021 in that area. I found several nice agates while hiking there," notes camper Dee S. at Plamosa BLM Dispersed Camping Area.
Visit nearby mining ghost towns: Take day trips to the old mining communities outside Quartzsite. "Exploring the desert and rockhounding thru old mines is perfect from this road," recommends Jayne N. about camping at Plomosa Road. The area's rich mining history provides opportunities for rockhounding enthusiasts.
Attend seasonal events: January through March features gem shows, swap meets, and RV gatherings. "You GOTTA visit the annual Quartzite RV Show!!! Lots of Camping & RV stuff plus Hundreds of other vendors. We spend at least a week here in mid-late January every year. Meet old friends from around the country or make new ones," shares Bob & Ramona F. from La Posa West BLM Long Term Visitor Area.
What campers like
Dark night skies: Areas farther from highways offer exceptional stargazing conditions. "Plenty of room, easy to access with our 42' fifth wheel. Close enough to 95 to be convenient but far enough away to have nice star viewing and no noise from the freeway," reports Austin from Plomosa Road.
Community gatherings: Many BLM areas host informal social events during winter months. "We stay in the Magic Circle clothes optional area... Inside the Magic Circle, there is a group use tent that offers things such as dances, yoga, bingo, meetings and other things," explains Semi H. at La Posa South BLM Long Term Visitor Area.
Winter climate: Mild temperatures attract snowbirds seeking relief from northern winters. "60's-70's during the day, high 30's to 50 at night. Can be windy. A lot of campers, but there's plenty of room," notes David Y. about Plamosa BLM Dispersed Camping Area. Many winter visitors stay for weeks or months before heading north when temperatures rise.
What you should know
Variable cell service: Coverage differs between camping areas and providers. "I have T-mobile service and phone was good, but data was painfully slow," reports Larry B. about Plomosa Road. Another camper at Scaddan Wash BLM Dispersed Camping Area noted, "No facilities but good cell reception."
Pay fees where required: LTVA areas charge for extended stays while 14-day areas are free. "Pay your fees. They have to pay to truck in the water and dump the gray water and trash... If you steal from the place, they most likely will arrest you," warns Rick M. about La Posa South. Fees are typically $40 for 14 days or $180 for the entire 7-month winter season.
Road conditions vary: Access roads range from paved to rough dirt tracks. "To get there you have to drive on a Dome Rock Rd (terrible) that hasn't been maintained in a very long time. Most people actually drive on the shoulder which is smoother," advises Berton M. about Scaddan Wash BLM Dispersed Camping Area.
Tips for camping with families
Choose locations with easy access to town: Areas closest to Quartzsite provide quicker trips for supplies. "Not a bad area and very convenient for a stop over... Stayed the night between Joshua Tree and Phoenix. Road is fairly decent, a little rocky," mentions Greg C. about Dome Rock Road BLM Dispersed Camping Area.
Watch for desert hazards: Pets and children need protection from cacti and thorns. "Great place to walk and explore but if you have a dog, please keep them close as there are a LOT of cactus and big thorns everywhere. Our dog got wrapped up in some and it was quite the moment but he's OK," warns Pinkie K. about Road Runner BLM.
Bring bikes for kids: The flat terrain offers safe riding opportunities. "We brought our son's bike and we were glad we did. Lots of places to ride and gave him something to do," shares the same reviewer about their experience at Road Runner BLM Dispersed Camping Area.
Tips from RVers
Register with camp hosts: Many areas require check-in even when free. "The sign at the entrance that list a few of the rules of the area. There's a time limit on how many days you can stay; I think its 14 but not sure," explains Berton M. about Scaddan Wash.
Pack extra water: Even areas with water access may experience outages. "While water is potable, it's salinated, so I don't drink it. Fill my tank to use for dishes, flushing, etc," advises Kathy B. about La Posa South BLM Long Term Visitor Area. Most campers bring drinking water from town.
Respect spacing norms: Different areas have different density patterns. "This desert BLM is awesome! Affordable. Trash and water available and lots of space to camp and roam the desert," reports Nathan K. about La Posa South. Areas further from town typically provide more space between campers.
