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City/Town Snapshot: Town of Quartzsite
Quartzsite, Arizona is a place of many names. It's famously known as the "Rock Capitol of the World," the "Desert Phenomenon," and the
"Place where the Sun comes out to Play."
Located in La Paz County, the town of Quartzsite is 125 miles west of Phoenix and just 18 miles east of the Colorado River.
Historically known as a gathering place for pioneers, stopping on their way to California in search for gold, Quartzsite has since become
a gathering place for visitors, campers and exhibitors.
Quartzsite is well-known for its swap meets, which happen throughout the winter months and draw visitors from all across the nation. Starting
in October, vendors begin setting up for the outdoor meets, filling booths with goods from all over the world. Most popular is the annual Pow
Wow. Celebrating its 48th year, this event held each January gathers hundreds of vendors who specialize solely in rocks, gems, minerals and
jewelry.
Because of its location, the town of Quartzsite also serves as a recreational hub. The desert landscape, surrounding mountains and close proximity
to the Colorado River make it a hot spot for camping and hundreds of miles of surrounding trails make for great hiking and riding ATVs. Also
nearby is Palm Canyon, the only canyon in the state of Arizona where palm trees grow.
History plays a large role in the town's personality. Visitors to the area can spend time at the original Quartzsite or see the training ground
where General Patton prepared his troops during World War II. The town is also home to the Hi Jolly Memorial, a cemetery paying tribute to Hadji
Ali. Ali was one of several camel drivers brought over by the U.S. Army to introduce camels to the American Southwest during the Civil War. After
failed attempts, he was the only driver to remain in Arizona and become known to the locals as "Hi Jolly."
To find out about upcoming city events, learn about Quartzsite history or plan a recreational outing in the area, visit: http://ci.quartzsite.az.us/.
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League of Arizona Cities and Towns
1820 W. Washington St.
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: 602-258-5786
Fax: 602-253-3874
http://www.azleague.org
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