Quartzsite RV Camping at Capacity, BLM Says “Look for Alternative”

Despite the warming desert temps, Quartzsite (Arizona) BLM land is at full-camping capacity according to the local land management office.

Typically RV campers begin leaving Quartzsite in early March. However, this year the small desert town has become a refuge for full time RVers seeking a place to hunker down for COVID-19.

The Colorado River District BLM managers have a clear message, “…look for alternative camping locations.

…look for alternative camping locations.

per Signage Posted at Camping Entrances

What BLM Areas Does This Affect?

According to a photograph of BLM signage (posted in the RV Coronavirus News group on Facebook) the announcement affects four popular Quartzsite boondocking spots.

• La Posa North
• La Posa South
• La Posa West
• Tyson Wells LTVA

The local BLM office also notes that dispersed camping near Tyson Wells is at capacity.

At “Capacity” – not Closed

Despite recommending new arrivals to find other camping options, the LTVA will continue to provide services until April 15th. After that date, the following services will be suspended.

• Toilets
• Trash Removal
• Dump Station

However, we’ve heard from multiple RVers in the area that the BLM land isn’t crowded at all. In fact, it looks empty compared to typical attendance during the annual RV show.

This seems to be a “workaround” for actually closing the BLM camping.

Recommendations From Quartzite BLM Office

In addition to recommending campers find another campsite, the local BLM office gives social distancing guidance in accordance to the CDC.

• Maintain safe distance between yourself and other groups.
• Limit your group to 10 people or less
• Wash your hands often with soap & water
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Stay home if you feel sick

What is BLM Land?

BLM stands for Bureau of Land Management.

Since its origin in 1812, spurred by the Louisiana Purchase, the USA government has been controlling BLM Land (back then it was called The General Land Office).

Most sites limit campers to a 14 day stay limit. After 14 days you are required to move. If you want to continue camping, you must move to another BLM jurisdiction.

The Best Free Camping in America

We love camping across this amazing country. And, we really love it when its free. Here’s our list of the 20 Best Free Campsites in the USA.

If you haven’t tried free camping before, also known as boondocking, take a look at our beginners guide to boondocking filled with everything you need to know to get started.

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