Quartzsite Travel Guide

Plan your next adventure with our travel guide to Quartzsite, Arizona. Discover the cultural, natural, and culinary delights of this western gem and get tips on where to stay and how to get around.


Introduction to Quartzsite

Quartzsite, a small town tucked away in western Arizona, is a hidden gem for those seeking outdoor adventures, cultural insights, and unique shopping experiences. With a population of just over 3,500 residents, this quaint town attracts thousands of tourists every winter due to its warm weather and prime location along major highways such as I-10 and US-95.

One of the most unique things about Quartzsite is that it transforms into a bustling marketplace during the winter months, with hundreds of vendors setting up shop for the annual Quartzsite Sports, Vacation & RV Show, as well as other gem and mineral shows. But Quartzsite is much more than just a place to shop - it offers a range of cultural and natural attractions for visitors to explore.

List of Places to Visit in Quartzsite

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tyson Well Stage Station Museum - Take a step back in time and learn about the history of Quartzsite’s well site station on the Butterfield Overland Mail Route. The museum features exhibits on local history, including mining, ranching, and military events.
  • Hi Jolly Tomb and Pioneer Cemetery - Visit the grave of Hadji Ali (known as Hi Jolly), a Syrian camel herder hired by the US Army to help with their Camel Corps experiment in the mid-1800s. The cemetery also contains graves of early settlers to the area.
  • The QIA PowWow - The Quartzsite Improvement Association (QIA) hosts a weekend-long traditional Native American powwow in February each year, featuring dancing, singing, and other cultural events.

Natural Attractions of Quartzsite: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kofa National Wildlife Refuge - Just a short drive outside of Quartzsite, visitors can hike, bike, and camp in this vast wildlife refuge. The park is known for its stunning geology, rugged mountains, and diverse plant and animal life.
  • Hi Jolly Trail - This 4.2 mile round-trip trail takes hikers to the top of a nearby mountain for views of the surrounding desert landscape.
  • Quartzsite Mountain - This rocky peak is a popular spot for rockhounding, with plenty of opportunities to discover gems and minerals.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Quartzsite

Quartzsite is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and biking opportunities in and around the town. Here are a few notable routes to try out:

  • Palm Canyon Trail - This 1.5 mile hike takes visitors into a beautiful oasis in the desert, surrounded by towering palm trees and a refreshing stream of water.
  • Plomosa Mountains Wilderness Area - Located just north of town, this wilderness area offers several hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for rock climbing and camping.
  • Cibola National Wildlife Refuge - This wildlife refuge east of Quartzsite has numerous hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife photography.

Best Things to Do in Quartzsite: Activities and Tours

  • The Quartzsite Experience Tour - This guided tour takes visitors around town to show off the unique shops and historical spots, with plenty of fascinating trivia along the way.
  • Off-Roading Adventures - Quartzsite is situated in an area with plenty of off-road opportunities, including sand dunes and rocky terrain. Rent a vehicle or bring your own to explore the surrounding landscape.
  • Arizona Peace Trail - This 750-mile trail runs through Quartzsite, offering a range of off-roading and ATV opportunities for those looking for a more rugged adventure.

Week-Long Itinerary for Quartzsite

Day 1: Visit the Tyson Well Stage Station Museum and explore the local shops Day 2: Hike the Hi Jolly Trail or take a bike ride through the Plomosa Mountains Wilderness Area Day 3: Check out the gem and mineral shows happening around town Day 4: Visit Kofa National Wildlife Refuge and take a scenic drive through the mountains Day 5: Take a guided tour of Quartzsite’s most interesting spots Day 6: Spend the day off-roading or ATVing on the Arizona Peace Trail Day 7: Relax and explore some of the local cuisine before departing

Food and Drink Scene of Quartzsite

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sonoran Hot Dogs - A regional specialty, these hot dogs are wrapped in bacon and are served with a variety of toppings, including avocado, onions, and jalapenos.
  • Mexican Food - Quartzsite has several excellent Mexican restaurants, serving up a range of delicious dishes such as street tacos, enchiladas, and ceviche.
  • Burgers and Fries - Several local diners serve up classic American fare like burgers, french fries, and milkshakes.

Local Beverages

  • Prickly Pear Margaritas - Made with locally harvested prickly pear cactus fruit, these margaritas are refreshing and sweet.
  • Arizona Wine - Several local wineries produce a range of high-quality wines, with reds, whites, and rosés on offer.
  • Craft Beer - Quinn’s Golden Roadhouse serves up a range of excellent craft beers from around the region.

Where to Stay in Quartzsite: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Quartzsite Yacht Club - A unique and quirky spot, this “yacht club” is located in the middle of the desert and is perfect for RVers and boaters.
  • Best Western Tyson’s Well - This hotel is located right in town, offering convenience and comfortable accommodations.
  • La Mesa RV Park - This RV park offers great amenities and nearby access to the Arizona Peace Trail for off-roading enthusiasts.

What to Buy in Quartzsite: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Gems and Minerals - With several rock and mineral shops around town, Quartzsite is a great place to find unique and beautiful stones.
  • Local Arts and Crafts - Several local artisans create handmade crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and woodworking.
  • RV and Camping Supplies - With Quartzsite being a popular RV destination, there are several stores that cater to campers’ needs, such as RV parts and accessories.

Local Culture and Customs of Quartzsite

Quartzsite has a rich history of mining and ranching, and the town still honors these traditions today. Visitors should be respectful of the town’s residents and traditions. Additionally, Quartzsite is in a desert environment, so visitors should be mindful of the natural beauty and resources, such as water and plant life.

Best Time to Visit Quartzsite

The best time to visit Quartzsite is during the winter months, from November to March, when the weather is mild and the gem and mineral shows are in full swing. The summer months can be extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 100°F regularly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Quartzsite

Do:

  • Be respectful of the town’s history and traditions
  • Bring sunscreen and plenty of water when exploring outdoor areas
  • Check out the gem and mineral shows during the winter months

Don’t:

  • Damage natural resources, such as desert plants and animals
  • Trespass on private property while exploring
  • Leave litter behind when visiting natural areas

Safety and Health

Safety in Quartzsite

Quartzsite is a relatively safe town, with a low crime rate. Visitors should take standard precautions, such as securing valuables and staying aware of their surroundings. Additionally, take care when exploring natural areas, such as hiking trails and off-road areas.

Health in Quartzsite

Quartzsite is located in the desert, so visitors should be mindful of the hot and arid climate. Always bring plenty of water and sunscreen when venturing outdoors. Additionally, there is a small medical clinic in town, but visitors should seek emergency care in nearby cities if necessary.

Getting to Quartzsite: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Quartzsite

The nearest major airport to Quartzsite is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, which is located about 2.5 hours away by car.

Bus Stations Near Quartzsite

Greyhound bus service is available via the Blythe Greyhound station, which is about 20 miles south of Quartzsite.

Other Options

Quartzsite is conveniently located off of both I-10 and US-95, making it easily accessible by car or RV.

How to Get Around in Quartzsite

Quartzsite is a small town, and many of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, visitors who want to explore the surrounding areas should consider renting a car or an ATV.

Where to Go Next from Quartzsite: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Joshua Tree National Park - Located just across the border in California, this national park features stunning rock formations and unique desert flora.
  • Lake Havasu City - A popular destination for boating and water sports, Lake Havasu City is located about an hour south of Quartzsite.
  • Yuma, Arizona - Located about an hour southwest of Quartzsite, Yuma offers a range of outdoor activities, shopping, and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Quartzsite, Arizona is a unique and beautiful destination, offering a range of cultural, natural, and culinary experiences. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures or prefer to explore historical sites, Quartzsite has something for everyone. Plan your next trip and discover the magic of this hidden gem in western Arizona.

Abandoned mine near Quartzsite Abandoned mine near Quartzsite Hi Jolly Monument Hi Jolly Monument QIA Pow Wow Gem & Mineral Show QIA Pow Wow Gem & Mineral Show Kofa Mountains in the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge Kofa Mountains in the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge