Quartzsite Campout and Riding (Saturday, November 24th, 2019)

Quartzsite, AZ is a camper's delight in the winter, with the desert turning from barren to filled with campers of all types.  A town emerges from the dust, and there is a feeling of excitement in the wind as people come from all over North America to enjoy the warmth of the desert.  We checked into the La Poloma West campground for the weekend to do some socializing and riding with friends.

We did several days of riding here in Quartzsite.  Our Saturday ride was into the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge.

Our first stop was the Kofa Cabin that is still used today for overnight guests.







It's simple, yet cozy feeling.  What an amazing shelter if you needed it.

Our next stop was the Jasper Springs, a natural desert spring located by a jasper hill. We went in search of some of the rare jasper, and found a few small pieces that we left for the next visitors.

Old holes left in the rock by the native Americans.

I never realized that cholla bloom in the winter.

 
This was a crazy looking beetle.

Next stop was a flat tire.  Glad it wasn't ours.  Just took a few minutes to change and we were all back on the road. 

 

A beautiful sunset to end our Saturday ride!

Sunday was a shorter ride to Dripping Spring and some mine sights.  It's no wonder we get some flat tires on the road!

An amazing natural cholla garden.

Mining ruins.

Exploring Dripping Springs, an oasis in the desert.

There are always amazing things to discover in the desert.

Another mine discovery.

This shaft is straight down.

 It's even a harsh environment for the cactus out here.

Another desert dwelling.

We're almost back.  We can see Quartzsite in the valley.

Back in camp the fun continues for the younger generation.

What a fun trip to Quartzsite!  The riding in this area is really good.  The trails are smooth and the sights are beautiful!  Such a fun time with friends!