March 5, 2015. Boon-docking in the desert

CAMPGROUND: Jolly Molly Bureau of Land Management.  Zero services.  Desert.  Free.  1 star?

LOCATION: Quartzite, Arizona on southwest border, near California

WEATHER: Beautiful. Highs in low 70s

We packed up from the RV park, taking advantage of amenities, like one last long hot shower!  We drove about 80 miles west to Quartzite.  We have been hearing about this place from campers all throughout our trip, and wondered what the draw is.  I think the draw is money, or more precisely, the lack of. ......  There are several Bureau of Land Management (BLM) public land areas that have been designated for free camping here. You can stay up to 14 days for free.  

The town itself is really tacky.....flea markets and RV parks, for those wanting services.  You see a lot of strange-looking people, mostly old hippies.

We found a BLM area outside of town, and thought we would try it.  There is NOTHING here, except campers parked in any spot they like...

There are no toilets, no water, no dump station, no electricity, no grills.  Just desert and sagebrush.

We walked around, talking to some other campers.  It seems that people do this either for financial reasons, or for the challenge.  Some of the rigs have elaborate solar panels to power their RVs.

George made a great fire.  He learned a new technique from the all-knowing internet.  It really did work well.

We read in the sunshine and enjoyed the nice weather.

George did a little fire dance to get the fire roaring...

It worked!  The moonrise was spectacular...full moon with a sky full of stars. No lights to interfere.

We will stay here just one night.  Some people love this type of camping.  For me, it is ok occasionally.  We can live off the grid for about 3 days, the life of our batteries.  Our refrigerator can run on gas, and we don't need A/C  yet.  

There are also long-term BLM areas where you can stay 7 months for $180.  It has a few services, like pit toilets and water.  I just can't imagine 7 months!

DINNER:  Italian hoagie sandwiches.  I bought a baguette while in Phoenix  for the sandwich.  I used some of the sausage George grilled the other day.  I added sautéed onions, bell peppers, basil and oregano.  Side dish was okra.  Very good!