One Road to Quartzsite

Each winter hundreds of thousands of snow birds flock to Quartzsite, Arizona, an offbeat camping and RV haven sitting comfortably between L.A. and Phoenix. Known as the "Desert Phenomenon," this little-known pocket of sand serves as a temporary home to nomadic families, retirees, veterans, people experiencing homelessness, recreational drug users, deeply religious believers, and die-hard gem and rock enthusiasts. For many this eccentric oasis is safe, supportive grounds in contrast to conventional mainstream society. Kids play freely in the desolate outdoors, climbing trees and brainstorming blueprints of their own religion. Retirees connect through scheduled activities at the community center or by paying visits to the "naked bookseller's" Reader's Oasis or the famous Hi Jolly Cemetery. Those who typically migrate solo find community with their fellow wanderers when they reminisce on their winding roads to Quartzsite.