Quartzsite, Arizona is a tiny town most of the year. But each new year, it suddenly swells as an estimated quarter million — or more — RVs raise the town’s population. This flood of campers come for a unique event: the Quartzsite Sports, Vacation and RV Show. Held in a giant tent in January, the Quartzsite RV Show is a must-see attraction for myriad RVers. And as you might imagine, it is both a shopping and social gathering.
Why this sprint into the desert? Many snowbirds are already familiar with Arizona’s combination of pleasant winter weather and the tremendous amount of free camping in the desert on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. (Along, of course, with other government-managed lands that offer flat desert surfaces.) There are also a number of RV parks in the area.
What Draws Campers to the Quartzsite RV Show
Last month, the Quartzsite Sports, Vacation and RV Show was held January 18 through 26 — all in a 640-foot-long tent. The event featured everything from solar and RV upgrades to kitchen tools and all sorts of RV products and services, some highly unique. The show is in its forty-second year and is operated by Kimmy King, daughter of founder Kenny King.
In addition the surrounding, desert camping appeals to groups of all types who gather annually. Common interests brings the attendees together. (There are even those who like to camp in a clothing-optional environment.) However, many are those who appreciate hiking, rock hounding, off-road travel, and other activities that can be done int he desert.
One such activity is a trip to The Desert Bar. At the end of a very long dirt road, it is only open on weekends. This destination is a huge attraction for RV and ATV owners, as well. The location is completely solar-powered. offer eclectic food offerings, and has live music. One enters it through a replica of a church. As memorable as it is, the Desert Bar is only one of many social gathering spots at the Quartzsite RV Show that are frequented by campers.
Interestingly, many who are regular attendees of the Quartzsite RV show, noticed that there seemed to be fewer Canadians campers this year. These snowbirds, who are fixtures in the area, were not returning this year due to the unfavorable exchange rate of the Looney.
Flea Market and Pop-Up Bars, Minerals and Nomads
In addition to the Quartzsite Sports, Vacation and RV Show, there is a another show nearby. That would be Tyson Wells, a 25-acre outdoor show with 2.2 miles of aisle frontage with vendors in tent. Under the array of canvas, shoppers can find anything from wood carvings and water filters to tools campers may not know they even need — until they see them. RV parts are also a part of the spread. It’s a flea market of super size. And it is tailored for audience that loves the RV lifestyle.
At Tyson Wells, there is also a vendor who sets up a very large tent that is as large as some grocery stores. It is stocked almost as well. Many of the provisions are canned and shelf-stable, but there is a selection of fresh items as well. Beer Belly’s Adult Day Care, a pop-up bar, is another social hot spot, especially for returnees.
Before the RV show, there is a also gem and mineral show. The show appeals to “rock hounds” and draws yet another unique group to Quartzsite. They are just one of many. The Rubber Tramp Rendezvous come too. This large group of people choose to live in a variety of vehicles and follow YouTuber Bob Wells, who gained additional fame in the movie “Nomadland.”
The show’s big tent includes workshops and seminars, but there are also quite a few booths representing workamping opportunities. These range from guarding gates at oil fields to working in amusement parks. Many local places that offer jobs in campgrounds.
California Fires and Canadian Currency Depress Desert Numbers
While this year’s show had lower foot traffic, there do appear to be good reasons. As mentioned, the smaller number of Canadians may be related to the reduced value of Canadian currency. The devastating fires in Southern California may also have impacted attendance. Show owner, Kimmy King, says, “There’s no doubt that foot traffic is down.” Even so, the Quartzsite RV Show still had a strong showing. It’s not hard to imagine why. Quartzsite is truly a unique phenomenon. It is both an annual social gathering as well as an escape from colder climates for many thousands of RVers.
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